What Is the EPC C Requirement?
The government has confirmed that minimum energy efficiency standards for private rented properties will be raised from EPC E to EPC C. The proposed implementation timeline is:
Note: As of early 2026, the secondary legislation implementing the C rating requirement for new tenancies has not yet been enacted. The current legal minimum remains EPC E. However, the direction of travel is clear and landlords with D or E rated properties should begin planning now.
The current rules mean you cannot let a property rated F or G in England. Doing so carries a fine of up to £5,000.
What Does EPC C Mean in Practice?
An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rates your property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Each band covers a range of SAP points:
If your property is currently rated D or E, you may be closer to C than you think. A single improvement — such as adding loft insulation, upgrading to a more efficient boiler, or replacing single-glazed windows — can sometimes push a property into Band C.
How to Improve Your EPC Rating Cost-Effectively
The most impactful improvements, roughly in order of cost-effectiveness:
Loft insulation (£300–£600)
If your property has an accessible loft with less than 270mm of insulation, topping up to 270mm is typically the cheapest way to improve EPC rating. Can improve by up to 3–5 SAP points.
Cavity wall insulation (£500–£1,500)
For properties with unfilled cavity walls (1920s–1990s construction). Government grants available via the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Boiler upgrade (£1,500–£3,000)
Replacing an old G-rated boiler with an A-rated condensing boiler can significantly improve EPC rating. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants toward heat pumps.
LED lighting throughout (£200–£400)
Often overlooked. Replacing all bulbs with LED can add 1–2 SAP points and is very cheap per point gained.
Double glazing (£3,000–£8,000)
High cost but significant benefit for older properties with single-glazed windows.
EPC Exemptions: When You Don't Have to Reach C
Landlords can apply for an exemption from minimum energy efficiency standards if:
Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register. They do not apply automatically — you must apply.
Maximum cost cap: The government proposes a cap of £15,000 per property on spending required to meet minimum standards. If the cost of improvements to reach EPC C exceeds £15,000, you can apply for an exemption.
How to Get a New EPC
An EPC must be carried out by an accredited domestic energy assessor. You can find accredited assessors at:
Cost: £60–£150 typically. Shop around — prices vary significantly.
How long it takes: Usually 30–60 minutes on-site. The certificate is uploaded to the national EPC register within a few days.
Validity: 10 years (but you should get a new one after making improvements, to capture the improved rating).
Track your EPC expiry and get reminders at 90, 30 and 7 days — LetCompliance from £9/month →