Energy Performance Certificates and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards

Energy Performance Certificates

In 2007, the government introduced Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). An EPC is a certificate that shows how energy efficient a property is. 

They are issued by a qualified EPC assessor and the EPC gives a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). Any properties that are rented or sold need to have one.  

The EPC will recommend improvements to the property and show what the energy efficiency rating could be if the improvements were made. 

The certificate is valid for 10 years and is required whenever a property is built, sold or rented. The EPC should be made available at the earliest opportunity, free of charge, to view by potential buyers and potential tenants. 

A landlord cannot serve a valid eviction notice (section 21) where they have failed to provide the tenant with a copy of EPC when they were required to.  

You can find if a Domestic EPC has been obtained for a property on GOV.UK.

Find information about other requirements placed on letting agents.

For more information about energy saving improvements visit Energy Saving Trust.