Big changes coming to EPCs in June 2025: What landlords and homeowners need to know
The EPC changes will impact how your property’s rating is calculated, how much it costs to stay compliant, and how easily you can let or sell your property.
If you own or let a property in the UK, you’re probably familiar with the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). From 15 June 2025, the EPC system is changing – and the implications will affect how your property’s rating is calculated, how much it costs to stay compliant, and how easily you can let or sell your property.
Why are EPCs changing?
The government is introducing a more accurate and detailed EPC to reflect modern energy standards and improve the reliability of assessments. This is part of a broader push to reduce carbon emissions and ensure buildings are more energy efficient.
The new format will consider more factors, including:
- Attic rooms/loft conversions and basements
- Renewable energy installations (solar, heat pumps, etc.)
- Lighting systems
- Ventilation and meter types
- Openings like windows and doors
Assessors will need to gather evidence for each element, meaning more time on-site and more detailed reports.
Will it cost more to get an EPC?
Yes. Assessments will now take longer (from ~40 minutes to over an hour for a typical 2–3 bed property), and prices are expected to rise. For example:
- A 3-bed house EPC might increase from £85 to £115, inclusive of VAT.
Some assessors have warned that their availability may drop, especially in the first months, due to the increased workload per property.
Will it be harder to get a ‘C’ rating?
Possibly. With the new detail required, properties that previously scraped a C rating may find themselves reassessed as a D, especially if certain insulation, lighting, or ventilation elements were previously overlooked.
That means:
- A property with a borderline C could drop a grade.
- It might cost more to get back up to a C or better.
Will existing EPCs still be valid?
Yes – existing certificates remain valid until their expiry, which is normally 10 years from issue. However:
- Any new lettings or sales after June 2025 may prompt a new-style EPC assessment.
- If you’re upgrading a property, it’s worth getting a new EPC to reflect improvements.
Is a C rating still required to let my property?
Not quite yet – but it’s coming.
The government has proposed changes to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) that would require all newly let properties to have at least a C rating, with potential enforcement from:
- 2028 for existing tenancies
- 2025–2026 for new tenancies (subject to final confirmation)
These plans have been delayed, not scrapped. It’s best to assume they’re coming soon and prepare early.
Will there be any new penalties for non-compliance?
Penalties for failing to meet the new EPC standards will increase significantly. Fines may rise to £30,000 per property and per breach, with enforcement powers given to local authorities. The government is also considering a name-and-shame register for repeat offenders. Landlords should review their portfolios now to avoid legal and financial consequences.
What help is available for energy efficiency upgrades?
Support varies but may include:
- ECO4 scheme (Energy Company Obligation) for insulation and heating upgrades
- Local Authority grants
- VAT relief on certain measures like insulation and heat pumps
Your eligibility often depends on your property’s current rating, tenancy status, and tenant income levels.
Some older or listed buildings face structural limitations. In these cases:
- Exemptions may be available if improvements are not cost-effective or technically feasible.
- You’ll need an Independent Report and possibly have to register the exemption with the government.
Still, a new-style EPC will more accurately reflect existing improvements, so a reassessment could actually help your case.
Do I need to act now?
If your property already has a strong C or better, you may not be affected.
But if:
- Your EPC expires soon
- You plan to sell or let a property in the next 12 months
- You previously just scraped a C rating
… then it’s worth preparing now.
How does Housemartin manage energy efficiency?
Investing on the Housemartin exchange means investing in energy-efficient properties with long-term leases and professional management. We make sure the properties are always in compliance with government regulation so you don’t have to worry about things like EPCs, compliance, or costly upgrades.
Join thousands of investors who prefer hands-off, hassle-free residential property-backed investing.