Check energy efficiency rules for landlords

Since April 2018, landlords of privately rented properties have had to make sure that their properties reach at least an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E before granting a new tenancy to new or existing tenants.

An EPC gives information on the energy efficiency of a property.

If you're the landlord of privately rented property, your property must reach a minimum EPC rating of E before you can grant a new tenancy to new or existing tenants.

This applies to all privately rented domestic and non-domestic properties in England and Wales.

If a tenant asks for energy efficiency improvements to their home, you cannot unreasonably refuse consent if:

• the improvements can be installed at no cost to you
• the tenant has made a written request

Exemptions may apply if:

• all relevant energy efficiency improvements have been made and the property remains sub-standard
• a recommended measure is not a relevant energy efficiency improvement because it cannot be purchased and installed at no cost to the landlord
• installation of wall insulation is not a relevant energy efficiency improvement due to written expert advice confirming that the measure is not appropriate for the property
• third party consent is required but cannot be obtained despite reasonable efforts
• an RICS registered surveyor has confirmed that the installation may have a significant impact on the value of a property

Temporary exemption may also apply if you recently became a landlord. A temporary exemption will last for 6 months from the date you become a landlord.

If you qualify for an exemption that means you can continue letting a property below the minimum energy efficiency standard, you must register on the PRS exemptions register (GOV.UK).

We can issue fines of up to £5,000 for landlords who do not comply with the regulations, including failing to properly register an exemption.

For further guidance for landlords and tenants see:

• GOV.UK: The Private Rented Property minimum standard
• Guidance for private sector landlords, PDF, 635 KB
• Tenants' energy efficiency improvements provisions
• GOV.UK: Energy performance of buildings