Check whether the property and tenancy are covered
The domestic minimum energy efficiency rules apply to the relevant private rented tenancies where the property is legally required to have an EPC. Since 1 April 2020, the restriction includes continuing to let covered properties below E, not just granting a new tenancy. [1]
Do not assume the same EPC treatment for every form of HMO occupation or every individual room letting. Establish the actual tenancy and EPC requirement first. Proposed changes to the EPC regime and its scope should not be mistaken for the current rules. [1] [3]
For a newly formed flat, make sure the assessment relates to the dwelling being let rather than relying on an old certificate describing the undivided house.
What if the rating is F or G?
Review the recommended improvements and the applicable funding and exemption provisions before letting or continuing a covered tenancy. The current landlord guidance uses a £3,500 cost cap including VAT, with particular rules for third-party funding and eligible expenditure. The cap is not permission to do nothing where improvements within it are available. [1]
Where the required conditions are met, register the appropriate exemption and retain its supporting evidence. A belief that a measure is too expensive, difficult or unwelcome is not equivalent to a registered exemption. [1]
Flats, consent and building constraints
Some improvements need a freeholder's, tenant's or other party's consent. The current third-party-consent exemption has specific conditions, including efforts to obtain the consent; it is not an automatic exemption for every leasehold flat. [1]
Check alteration covenants before commissioning work affecting windows, walls, services or shared parts. The proposed energy improvement still needs the appropriate private consent and any relevant statutory approval. [4] [5]
What is planned for 2030?
The government's response sets an intended compliance date of 1 October 2030 for the higher private-rented standard. It describes a C-level standard based on new EPC metrics, a planned £10,000 expenditure cap and transitional treatment for qualifying existing EPCs. It also states that new powers and implementing legislation are needed. These are future policy arrangements, not replacements for today's E standard and £3,500 framework. [2]
The planned assessment is more nuanced than a simple instruction to obtain today's EPC C: it involves fabric performance and a choice of heating-system or smart-readiness performance, with transitional provisions. [2]
New EPCs have a separate timetable
The proposed EPC format uses headline metrics for energy cost, fabric, heating and smart readiness. Later government material says it is working towards new EPCs from late 2027; that is a delivery target, not a guaranteed launch day. [3] [6]
Use current assessment advice for work now, preserve specifications and invoices, and recheck the implementing legislation before relying on a future exemption or transition. Do not postpone an existing E-rating obligation because a higher standard is planned. [1] [2]