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    Page Summary
    • In 2026, landlords must comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards requiring a minimum EPC rating of E
    • EPC ratings range from A to G and were introduced to encourage improved energy efficiency in rental properties
    • Properties with EPC ratings of F or G cannot be legally rented unless an exemption applies
    • Future regulations are expected to introduce stricter energy efficiency standards, so landlords should prepare in advance
    • Improving insulation, heating systems, lighting, and renewable energy options can help raise a property’s EPC rating

    What Are the New EPC Regulations for Landlords?

    In 2026, landlords must continue to comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which currently require rental properties to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above.

    While there has been significant discussion around raising the minimum EPC requirement to a C rating in the coming years, this has not yet become law. However, government policy confirms a longer-term direction of travel toward higher energy efficiency standards for rented properties, meaning landlords should begin preparing now.

    Currently, the MEES guidelines allow rented properties to have a minimum EPC rating of E, which sits toward the lower end of the A–G scale.

    The EPC rating was introduced in the UK in 2008 to encourage landlords and property owners to invest in better energy efficiency.

    Investing in improved heating systems and energy-efficiency measures can make rental properties more attractive to tenants while also reducing long-term operating costs.

    How Will the EPC Regulations Affect Landlords?

    Although the minimum legal EPC requirement remains at E in 2026, landlords should be aware that future regulations are expected to introduce stricter energy efficiency standards for rental properties, including a proposed minimum EPC rating of C by 2030.

    Failure to comply with current MEES regulations already prevents landlords from legally renting properties with EPC ratings of F or G unless an exemption applies.

    What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

    An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that provides information on a building or property’s energy efficiency and is typically required when a property is sold, rented, or constructed.

    The EPC includes details about the energy efficiency rating of the property, ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with recommendations for improving energy efficiency.

    How to Improve EPC Rating for Landlords

    • Insulation Upgrades: Improve insulation in walls, roofs, and floors to reduce heat loss.
    • Upgrade Heating Systems: Installing a more energy-efficient heating system can significantly improve a property’s EPC rating.
    • Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace traditional bulbs with LED lighting.
    • Renewable Energy Technologies: Consider solar panels or solar water heating systems.

    Upgrade Your Property with D.R. Electrical

    If you own a rental property that needs improving to meet current or future EPC requirements, D.R. Electrical can help.