UK EPC News: What You Really Need to Know About EPC Changes
UK EPC News and How it Impacts You
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are becoming more important than ever. With new legislation, updated assessment methods, and tougher minimum standards on the horizon, 2025 marks a major turning point for EPCs in the UK.
Whether you’re a landlord, homeowner, or property investor, understanding the latest EPC news is essential to stay compliant, reduce energy costs, and improve property value.
What’s Happened with EPCs in 2025?
One of the most significant developments in 2025 is the introduction of the new EPC assessment methodology, known as RdSAP 10. This update changes how EPC ratings are calculated and came into effect in June 2025.
RdSAP 10 places a much stronger emphasis on evidence-based data rather than assumptions. EPC assessors are now required to gather more detailed information about a property, including insulation levels, glazing specifications, heating systems, ventilation, and smart energy controls. This results in a more accurate representation of how energy efficient a home really is.
Because of these changes, some properties may see their EPC rating increase or decrease, even if no physical improvements have been made. While this may come as a surprise to some property owners, it provides a clearer picture of performance and helps identify where energy efficiency upgrades will have the biggest impact.
Minimum EPC Requirements Are Tightening In 2026
The UK government has confirmed plans to raise minimum EPC standards for privately rented properties, marking one of the most impactful changes for landlords.
At present, rental properties must meet a minimum EPC rating of E to be legally let. However, proposals suggest that new tenancies may be required to reach EPC C by 2028. This requirement would then extend to all existing rental properties by 2030, significantly raising the bar for energy efficiency across the private rented sector.
For landlords, this change has major implications. Properties that do not meet the minimum EPC rating may become unlawful to rent, potentially resulting in lost rental income or enforcement action. Planning upgrades early will be crucial to ensure compliance without unnecessary expense.
Landlords Are Not Yet Prepared
Despite the clear direction of travel, many landlords remain underprepared for the upcoming EPC changes.
Recent surveys suggest that a significant proportion of landlords are either unaware of future EPC requirements or unclear about their legal responsibilities. Some landlords do not realise that EPC compliance is mandatory, while others underestimate the scale of improvements needed to reach EPC band C.
This lack of preparation increases the risk of rushed retrofit work closer to the deadlines, which can lead to higher costs and limited contractor availability. Taking early action allows landlords to plan improvements strategically and spread costs over time.
Further EPC Reforms Coming in 2026 and Beyond
EPC reform is not limited to 2025. The government is actively consulting on broader changes that could further transform how energy performance is measured and communicated.
Future EPCs may include multiple performance metrics rather than a single rating. These could assess the fabric efficiency of a building, measuring how well the structure retains heat, alongside heating system performance, estimated running costs, and carbon impact. This approach aims to give property owners clearer, more practical insights into how their homes use energy.
There are also proposals in parts of the UK to reduce EPC validity from the current 10 years to just 5 years. Shorter validity periods would ensure EPCs remain accurate and reflect improvements or deterioration in a property’s energy efficiency over time.
Why EPC Changes Matter
EPC ratings play a growing role in the property market and affect far more than regulatory compliance.
From a legal perspective, EPC ratings determine whether a property can be rented out. From a commercial standpoint, energy-efficient homes are increasingly attractive to tenants and buyers who are conscious of energy costs and environmental impact.
Higher EPC ratings are often associated with lower energy bills, helping to reduce fuel poverty and improve comfort for occupants. Over time, strong energy performance can also support property values and future saleability, particularly as energy efficiency becomes a key consideration for lenders and buyers.
How to Prepare for EPC Changes
Property owners can take several proactive steps now to prepare for upcoming EPC requirements.
Arranging an updated EPC assessment under the new RdSAP 10 methodology provides a clear and accurate starting point. This allows homeowners and landlords to understand their current position and identify which improvements will deliver the greatest benefit.
Investing in cost-effective upgrades, such as improved insulation, modern heating systems, or better glazing, can significantly boost EPC ratings while also reducing energy bills. Working with qualified energy assessors ensures recommendations are tailored to the property and aligned with future compliance targets.
Final Thoughts
EPC regulations in the UK are clearly moving in one direction, towards higher standards, greater accuracy, and stronger accountability for property energy performance. With the introduction of the new RdSAP 10 methodology and proposed increases to minimum EPC requirements, property owners can no longer afford to treat EPCs as a box-ticking exercise.
For landlords in particular, the coming years will require forward planning. Acting early allows time to understand your current EPC rating, prioritise the most effective improvements, and spread investment costs in a controlled way. Homeowners also stand to benefit, as better energy efficiency means lower energy bills, improved comfort, and a reduced environmental footprint.
As EPCs continue to evolve, staying informed and seeking expert advice will be key. By taking a proactive approach now, property owners can ensure compliance, protect property value, and contribute to a more energy-efficient housing stock. At Cucumber Eco, we’re committed to helping you navigate these changes with practical, sustainable solutions that work for your property and the planet
