EPC Ratings Explained: Staying Compliant with Your UK Tenancy Agreement

EPC – it’s an acronym landlords across the UK need to be familiar with. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). But it’s more than just a rating; it’s a legal requirement with implications for your tenancy agreements.

What Landlords MUST Do:

  • Obtain a Valid EPC: Before marketing a property for rent, you must have a valid EPC commissioned.
  • Provide to Tenants: You are legally obligated to give your tenants a copy of the valid EPC at the beginning of the tenancy (and it’s good practice to provide it during viewings).
  • Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES): In England and Wales, properties must generally meet a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ to be let (some exemptions apply). Scotland also has minimum standards, aiming for improvement over time – check current Scottish Government guidance. Failing to meet MEES can result in fines and prevent you from letting the property.

The Link to Your Tenancy Agreement:

While the EPC certificate itself is a separate document, compliance is linked to your tenancy process.

  • Legal Requirement: Failing to provide an EPC can incur penalties. In England and Wales, it can also invalidate a Section 21 eviction notice.
  • Transparency: Providing the EPC demonstrates professionalism and transparency to your tenants regarding running costs.
  • Legalmaster Prompt: When creating your agreement via Legalmaster, our process prompts you to confirm details related to EPC compliance, ensuring you don’t overlook this vital step as part of setting up your tenancy correctly.

Staying Compliant:

  1. Check Your Rating: Ensure your property meets the required MEES rating for your nation.
  2. Renew When Needed: EPCs are typically valid for 10 years. Check the expiry date on yours.
  3. Provide Copies: Always give new tenants a copy of the valid certificate. Keep proof that you’ve done so.

EPC compliance is a non-negotiable part of being a landlord in the UK. Legalmaster helps you manage your tenancy documentation efficiently, reminding you of key compliance points like EPCs, ensuring you start your tenancy on the right foot.

Create A Tenancy Agreement