Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rules for landlords 2026
You must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to market and let a property, and give a copy to the tenant. An EPC is valid for 10 years. Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) it is currently unlawful to let a property with an EPC rating below E unless a valid exemption is registered. Penalties for letting a sub-standard property can reach £5,000. Note: the government has consulted on raising the minimum rating for the private rented sector after 2026 — check the current standard.
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You must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to market and let a property, and give a copy to the tenant. An EPC is valid for 10 years. Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) it is currently unlawful to let a property with an EPC rating below E unless a valid exemption is registered. Penalties for letting a sub-standard property can reach £5,000. Note: the government has consulted on raising the minimum rating for the private rented sector after 2026 — check the current standard.
This is a legal obligation for private landlords in England. Keeping dated records is the simplest way to prove you have met it if a tenant, council or lender ever asks.
How often / when
Every 10 years.
CertSafe works out the exact next-due date for your property automatically once you enter when it was last done, and reminds you at 60, 30, 14, 7 and 1 days before — plus if anything slips overdue.
The penalty for getting it wrong
Up to £5,000 (MEES) per property.
Penalties are set by legislation and enforced by local authorities or the courts. They can also complicate possession, mortgage and insurance matters, which is why lenders increasingly ask to see a compliance record.
Your quick checklist
1. Find the date this was last done (or arrange it now if it hasn't been).
2. Keep the certificate or record somewhere safe and give any required copy to your tenant.
3. Diarise the next deadline — or let CertSafe track it and remind you.
Frequently asked questions
How often is energy performance certificate (epc) required?
Every 10 years.
What's the penalty for not doing energy performance certificate (epc)?
Up to £5,000 (MEES) per property.
Does this apply to my property in England?
These rules apply to privately rented homes in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own regimes. Always check your specific circumstances against the official source linked below.
Official source: gov.uk — EPC and MEES guidance
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