What Is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It is produced by an accredited domestic energy assessor and is valid for 10 years. Every rental property in England and Wales must have a valid EPC.
Minimum EPC Rating to Let a Property
Current Requirement: Minimum E Rating
Since April 2020, all privately rented properties in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E. Landlords cannot let or renew tenancies on F or G rated properties unless a valid exemption is registered with the PRS Exemptions Register.
The government has proposed raising the minimum to a C rating for new tenancies, with existing tenancies to follow. While the implementation date remains under consultation, proactive landlords should start planning improvements now.
How EPC Ratings Are Calculated
An EPC assessor visits the property and evaluates the following factors:
- Wall, roof and floor insulation
- Windows (single, double or triple glazed)
- Heating system type and age
- Hot water system
- Lighting (LED vs standard bulbs)
- Renewable energy sources (solar panels, heat pumps)
Each factor is scored and combined to produce an overall SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) score, which determines the band from A to G.
Most Cost-Effective Ways to Improve Your EPC
1. Loft Insulation
One of the cheapest and most effective improvements. Installing 270mm of mineral wool insulation in an uninsulated loft can raise an EPC rating by one or two bands and reduce heat loss by up to 25%. Government grants may be available through the ECO4 scheme.
Rent Ready London installs loft insulation across East London and Essex, with competitive pricing and fast installation.
2. Double Glazing
Replacing single-glazed windows with A-rated double glazing improves the EPC score and reduces energy bills for tenants. This also makes the property more attractive to prospective tenants and can justify a higher rent.
Our Fensa-approved team installs double glazed windows across East London and Essex.
3. Boiler Upgrade
Replacing an old G-rated boiler with a modern A-rated condensing boiler is one of the single biggest EPC improvements available. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 for heat pump installations.
4. LED Lighting
A simple and low-cost improvement. Replacing all light fittings with LED bulbs can add a few points to the SAP score at minimal cost.
5. Cavity Wall Insulation
For properties built after 1920 with unfilled cavity walls, cavity wall insulation is one of the most cost-effective improvements and can raise a rating by a full band.
EPC Exemptions for Landlords
If the cost of improvements exceeds £3,500 (including any available grants), a landlord may be able to register a cost cap exemption. Other exemptions include listed buildings, properties where improvements would damage the fabric of the building, and cases where third-party consent (such as a freeholder) cannot be obtained.
Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and last for 5 years.
How Rent Ready London Can Help
We can carry out a range of improvements to raise your EPC rating, including loft insulation, window replacement and general refurbishment works. Our Care Plan also helps you stay on top of all your compliance obligations for a fixed monthly fee.
Call us on 07354 357 678 or get a free quote today.