All private rented properties in England must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E.
Exemptions are available where it is not possible to meet an EPC band E. Most exemptions are valid for 5 years.
These include:
- All the relevant (low cost) energy efficiency improvements have been installed. The property remains below an E;
- A recommended measure (relevant energy efficiency improvement) will cost more than £3500;
- Wall insulation such as cavity, external or internal wall insulation is not appropriate. This could be due to its potential negative impact on the fabric or structure of the property;
- The landlord cannot get the required consent or permission for improvement work. This could include where consent has unreasonable conditions attached;
- Written evidence from a qualified expert states that the measure will reduce a property’s value by 5%;
- The landlord has only recently become the landlord (six month exemption)
What happens if my property does not to comply?
Where a property has been let and does not meet the minimum standard, a landlord may be liable for a fine of up to £4000. An exemption must be in place to avoid this.
What do I need to do?
You must make yourself aware of the regulations and the options available. This will be to either comply or achieve an exemption.
For full details please read the full regulations:
What if I am a tenant living in an F of G rated property?
A tenant can make reasonable requests for relevant energy efficiency improvements. A relevant improvement will only be reasonable if it can be financed within the cost limit to the landlord.
There may be funding provided by central or local government or other bodies. The improvement could be wholly funded by the tenant, or financed by a combination of those two arrangements.