Understanding EPCs for Rental Properties

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are crucial documents for landlords. With new regulations coming into effect, understanding your obligations is essential.

Current EPC Requirements

Currently, rental properties in England and Wales must have:

• A valid EPC (renewed every 10 years)
• Minimum rating of E to let the property

Proposed Changes for 2025

The government has proposed increasing minimum EPC requirements:

Timeline

• 2025: Minimum EPC rating of C for new tenancies
• 2028: Minimum EPC rating of C for all tenancies

Spending Caps

Landlords may be required to spend up to £10,000 per property to improve EPC ratings.

Improving Your EPC Rating

Quick Wins (Low Cost)

1. LED lighting throughout - potential 1-2 point improvement
2. Loft insulation top-up - 3-5 points
3. Draught-proofing - 1-2 points
4. Smart thermostat installation - 1-2 points

Medium Investment

1. Cavity wall insulation - £500-1,500, 10+ points
2. Floor insulation - £800-1,200, 2-4 points
3. Double glazing upgrades - £3,000-10,000, 5-10 points
4. Boiler upgrade - £2,000-4,000, 5-10 points

Major Improvements

1. External wall insulation - £8,000-15,000
2. Heat pump installation - £7,000-13,000
3. Solar panels - £4,000-8,000

Available Grants and Funding

ECO4 Scheme

• Funding for insulation and heating improvements
• Available for properties with EPC of D-G
• Tenant must be on qualifying benefits

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

• £5,000 grant for air source heat pumps
• £6,000 grant for ground source heat pumps

Exemptions

Landlords can register exemptions if:

• All relevant improvements made and still below C
• Cost exceeds the cap
• Listed building restrictions apply
• Third-party consent refused

How Roost Tracks EPC Compliance

• EPC certificate storage - Upload and track validity
• Expiry reminders - Never miss a renewal
• Rating tracker - Monitor portfolio EPC status
• Improvement suggestions - AI-powered recommendations

Conclusion

Preparing for stricter EPC requirements now will save money and hassle later. Start with cost-effective improvements and plan larger investments strategically.