A new EPC change with a big potential impact on landlords.
The most significant changes to EPC's in over a decade is now in place. Improvements to their accuracy will help landlords make informed decisions the energy efficiency of their investment, but changes could also bring surprising results.
The introduction of RdSAP 10 (Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure) has brought a wide range of updates to the way Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are carried out in the UK. These changes are designed to make EPCs more accurate and reflective of how homes actually use energy.
For landlords, these updates could have a direct impact on your property’s EPC rating — and ultimately whether your property remains legally lettable. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and what they mean for you.
EPC's rely more on documentation
As EPC's are observational reports, the assessor won't be making holes in walls or floors to look for insulation, for example. EPC's now rely more heavily on documentation and certificates provided by the landlord. This is the best way to prove to an assessor that particular work has been done, without them seeing it in person. Failing to provide this evidence could mean a lower rating for the property. Here's a few key documents to show to an assessor:
- Cavity wall insulation certificates
- Boiler installation certificates
- Loft and floor insulation certificates
- Completion certificates from building regulations
- MCS certificates (for solar panels & renewables)
💡 Tip: Share copies of these documents with your letting agent too, so they can pass them to the assessor.
Floor area and window calculations
The method of calculating the size of a property is now more accurate, this should help provide a more accurate rating of a property. All windows are now to also be measured as part of the report, with the assessor also including information about the performance of the glazing to further improve the accuracy of the report and recommendations.
Fairer property type assumptions
Flats and mid-terrace properties share heat with neighbours so are inherently more energy efficient. The previous assumptions on the report was at a disadvantage to these types of properties, this has now been adjusted so these properties may now see improvements in ratings.
Colemans Close, Kingsnorth - Let by Sandersons UK
The property has a 'B' EPC rating thanks to solar panels on the roof, TRV's (thermostatic radiator valves) and zoned heating. The property is also mid-terrace, a more favourable option for energy efficiency.
Why these changes matter for landlords
At first glance, these updates might seem minor, but the impact could be significant for landlords with borderline properties. Properties with a D or E rating may drop to an F, making them un-rentable under current UK EPC regulations. Homes with a C rating could fall to a D, leaving landlords vulnerable ahead of the expected minimum EPC requirement of C by 2028. In some cases ratings could improve, it all depends on the type of property and how prepared the landlord is for the assessment.
What should landlords do next?
- Gather all documentation before booking an EPC assessment.
- Review your property’s EPC history and consider upgrades if your rating is borderline.
- Plan ahead for 2028, when the minimum EPC rating is expected to rise to C.
For tailored advice on how EPC changes could impact your investment, please get in touch with a member of the team.
