Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) Explained – 2026 Guide for Sellers and Landlords
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that shows how energy efficient a property is. It is required by law when a property in England is sold or rented.
The EPC gives a property a rating from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G being the least efficient. It also shows an environmental impact rating, which measures the amount of carbon dioxide emissions produced by the property.
The aim of EPC legislation is to improve the energy efficiency of homes across the UK, reduce carbon emissions and help buyers and tenants understand likely energy running costs.
What Information Does an EPC Provide?
An EPC includes:
- The property’s energy efficiency rating from A to G.
- An environmental impact rating showing carbon emissions.
- Estimated energy costs for heating, lighting and hot water.
- Recommendations for improving the energy performance of the property.
- Potential future rating if improvements are carried out.
Typical recommendations may include improved loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, upgraded boilers, double glazing or renewable technologies such as solar panels.
Who Can Produce an EPC?
EPCs can only be produced by a qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). The assessor will inspect the property and record details such as:
- Construction type and insulation levels
- Heating systems and controls
- Ventilation and glazing
- Lighting and energy use
Once completed, the EPC is lodged on the official national EPC register and given a unique reference number.
Copies can be downloaded at any time from the government EPC register using the certificate reference number.
When is an EPC Required?
An EPC is required when:
- A property is marketed for sale
- A property is marketed to let
- A new tenancy agreement is granted
- A newly built property is completed
The EPC must be ordered before marketing begins and should be available to prospective buyers or tenants as soon as possible.
Estate agents are required to display the EPC rating within marketing material including online listings.
EPC Rules for Landlords
Energy efficiency rules for landlords have become increasingly important.
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations, rental properties in England must normally achieve a minimum EPC rating of:
- Band E or above to be legally rented
This rule currently applies to most privately rented properties. If a property has an EPC rating of F or G it cannot normally be let unless a registered exemption applies.
Local authorities can enforce the rules and financial penalties can apply if landlords rent out properties below the minimum standard without a valid exemption.
Future EPC Changes – What Landlords Should Know
The government has proposed future changes which could require most rental properties to reach a minimum EPC rating of C in the coming years.
Although the final timeline is still evolving, many landlords are already planning improvements such as insulation upgrades, new heating systems or improved glazing to prepare for potential future requirements.
Improving the EPC rating of a property can also make it easier to:
- Attract tenants
- Reduce energy bills
- Secure buy to let mortgage finance
- Future proof a rental investment
EPC Validity
An EPC is valid for 10 years.
The same certificate can normally be reused for multiple sales or tenancies during that period.
However, if improvement works have been carried out, it is often beneficial to commission a new EPC so the improved rating can be reflected in marketing.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Some properties may be exempt from EPC requirements including:
- Listed buildings where improvements would unacceptably alter their character
- Temporary buildings with limited use
- Very small buildings under certain size thresholds
- Buildings scheduled for demolition
If a landlord cannot improve a property to the minimum standard due to technical or financial limitations, an exemption may be registered on the national PRS Exemptions Register.
Why EPC Ratings Matter When Selling
Buyers are increasingly conscious of energy costs. A strong EPC rating can make a property more attractive and easier to finance.
Mortgage lenders are also paying increasing attention to energy performance, particularly for buy to let investors.
In many cases, improving insulation or heating efficiency can increase the marketability of a property and help it sell faster.
How Cooke & Co Can Help
At Cooke & Co we work with experienced and accredited energy assessors who can provide fast EPC inspections across Thanet including Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Birchington, Westgate and surrounding villages.
Our team can also advise landlords and sellers on:
- Improving EPC ratings
- Preparing properties for rental compliance
- Energy improvements that add real value
- Future proofing investment properties
Many EPC inspections locally cost around £70–£90 and we can usually arrange an appointment quickly.
As an additional benefit, many EPC providers also produce floor plans which we can convert into enhanced marketing material to maximise exposure when selling or renting your property.
If you would like advice about EPC requirements or preparing your property for sale or letting, please contact Cooke & Co and our team will be pleased to assist.
