If you’re a landlord in the UK, there’s an important deadline looming that you can’t afford to ignore — the requirement for rental properties to have an EPC rating of C or above. Although not yet enshrined in law, the government’s proposal is clear: new tenancies must meet this standard from 2025, and all existing tenancies from 2028.

So, what does this mean in practice, how serious is it, and what should you be doing now to prepare?

Let’s break it down.

What Is an EPC and Why Should Landlords Care?

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) measures how energy-efficient a property is, on a scale from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient). Since 2018, landlords have only been allowed to rent out properties with a minimum EPC of E.

But that’s changing — fast.

Under government proposals:

• New tenancies must meet EPC C from 2025
• All tenancies must meet EPC C from 2028

Although final legislation is still being debated, it’s widely expected to go ahead in some form. If you’re waiting for absolute certainty before doing anything, you risk being caught out.

Why Is This Happening?

This is part of the UK’s drive towards net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The housing sector is responsible for around 14% of the UK’s total emissions, and private rental properties are often among the worst offenders when it comes to energy inefficiency.

By pushing landlords to upgrade their properties, the government hopes to:

• Cut national energy usage
• Lower tenant fuel bills
• Improve housing quality overall

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

If the rules come into effect and you haven’t upgraded your properties:

• You may be unable to legally let them
• You could face fines up to £30,000
• You might need to make urgent and expensive improvements to avoid losing rental income

And that’s without factoring in market pressures — tenants are becoming increasingly energy-aware, and properties with low EPCs will likely see higher vacancy rates and falling appeal.

How to Check Your Property’s EPC Rating

If you’re not sure where you stand, checking is easy:

1. Visit gov.uk/find-energy-certificate
2. Enter your postcode
3. Find your property and download the certificate

You’ll get your current rating and a list of suggested improvements, with an estimated cost and impact for each one.

What Improvements Help Reach EPC C?

Improving a property’s energy efficiency doesn’t always require a full renovation. Some upgrades are relatively quick wins — others may be more involved.

Here are common areas that can improve your EPC:

Loft and Wall Insulation

• Loft insulation is one of the most cost-effective upgrades
• Cavity wall insulation (for homes built after the 1920s) can make a big difference

Heating System Upgrades

• Replace old boilers with modern condensing boilers
• Add smart thermostats and zoned heating controls
• Consider heat pumps (air or ground source), especially with grant funding

Windows and Doors

• Install double or triple glazing
• Replace draughty or single-glazed doors

Lighting and Appliances

• Switch all bulbs to LEDs
• Ensure white goods have energy-efficient ratings (A or above)

Draught Proofing and Ventilation

• Block heat leaks around windows, chimneys, and floorboards
• Add mechanical ventilation systems where needed

How Much Will It Cost to Upgrade?

The government proposes a £10,000 cap per property — meaning you won’t be expected to spend more than this. However, many properties will need less, especially if they already have decent insulation or a modern boiler.

On average, landlords may spend between £5,000–£8,000, depending on property type and age.

What About Exemptions?

There are valid cases where you may be exempt, such as:

• If the cost of improvements exceeds the £10,000 cap
• If the property is listed and alterations would harm its character
• If the required improvements are technically unfeasible

But here’s the catch: exemptions must be officially registered on the PRS Exemptions Register. Don’t assume you’re covered — get formal confirmation.

Is There Any Help Available?

There’s no single magic pot of funding, but a few routes are worth exploring:

• Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) – Up to £7,500 off the cost of a heat pump
• Local Authority support schemes – Vary by area
• Green finance products – Some mortgage lenders offer discounted rates or additional borrowing for eco-friendly upgrades

And keep an eye out — with a general election around the corner, future incentives could be expanded.

What Should Landlords Do Now?

Here’s your checklist for staying ahead:

Check your EPC

Look up your property on the EPC register and review the recommendations.

Get a Retrofit Assessment

More detailed than an EPC — it tells you exactly which improvements to make for maximum impact.

Start budgeting and planning

Upgrades can be phased. Start with the easiest or cheapest — loft insulation, LED lighting, thermostat controls.

Engage your tenants

If your property is occupied, discuss planned works in advance and give them notice. Many tenants will welcome the improvements.

Stay informed

Join groups like NRLA or sign up for alerts from GOV.UK to stay ahead of any changes.

The Bottom Line: Act Sooner, Not Later

Landlords who get ahead now will:

• Avoid a last-minute scramble
• Spread the cost of upgrades
• Appeal to more tenants
• Add long-term value to their property

The longer you wait, the narrower your options become — especially with a potential labour and materials crunch as 2025 draws closer.

You don’t need to spend a fortune overnight. Even a small step now — checking your EPC, upgrading your loft insulation, replacing your boiler if it’s on the blink — puts you in a stronger position later.

Because the truth is, whether the rules are delayed or not, the expectation is here to stay. Better to be compliant — and comfortable — than caught cold.