How Do Landlords Get an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) in 2026?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is one of the most important legal requirements for landlords in the UK. With energy efficiency standards tightening and enforcement increasing, understanding how to obtain, and maintain, a valid EPC is essential for letting property legally in 2026.

In this post, we explain what an EPC is, when landlords need one, how to arrange an assessment, and how improving your rating can protect your rental investment.

What Is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An EPC measures how energy efficient a property is, assigning a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate also includes recommendations on how to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.

For tenants, EPC ratings provide transparency about likely heating bills and environmental impact. For landlords, they are a legal compliance requirement and an increasingly important factor in marketability and rental value.

Do Landlords Need an EPC?

Yes. Landlords must have a valid EPC before marketing a rental property.

Key rules include:

• An EPC is valid for 10 years.
• It must be commissioned before advertising the property.
• The rating must meet the minimum energy efficiency standard.
• A copy must be provided to prospective tenants.

In 2026, there is continued pressure to improve minimum standards. While the current requirement remains E or above in most cases, landlords should prepare for future expectations. Landlords who take early action are far better positioned if regulations tighten further.

How to Get an EPC for Your Rental Property

1. Find an Accredited Energy Assessor

EPCs can only be issued by a qualified domestic energy assessor. These professionals are registered with government-approved accreditation schemes.

You can search online directories or use local property service providers who can arrange assessments on your behalf.

2. Arrange a Property Assessment

The assessor will visit the property to evaluate:

• Heating systems and controls.
• Insulation levels (loft, walls, floors).
• Window/Douible glazing.
• Lighting efficiency.
• Overall construction and layout.

The inspection typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the property size.

3. Receive Your Certificate and Report

Once the assessment is complete, you will receive:

• Your EPC rating.
• A full report with efficiency recommendations.
• Confirmation that the certificate has been lodged on the national EPC register.

This certificate can then be shared with tenants and letting agents.

How Much Does an EPC Cost?

Costs vary depending on location and property size, but most landlords can expect to pay between £60 and £120.

While it may seem like an administrative expense, an EPC can help identify improvements that reduce energy bills, increase tenant satisfaction, and enhance rental value.

Improving Your EPC Rating

If your property has a low rating, improvements may include:

• Installing loft or cavity wall insulation.
• Upgrading boilers or heating controls.
• Switching to LED lighting.
• Improving ventilation systems.
• Replacing inefficient glazing.

Some improvements are relatively low-cost but can make a significant difference to the rating.

Quick Wins That Can Improve Your EPC Rating

Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting

Replacing older bulbs with LED lighting is one of the simplest upgrades landlords can make.

LED bulbs:

• Use significantly less energy.
• Last longer.
• Improve EPC scoring for lighting efficiency.

This is a low-cost improvement that can be implemented across the entire property in a single visit.

Upgrade Heating Controls

Installing thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), programmable thermostats, or smart heating controls can positively influence EPC ratings.

Better heating controls:

• Improve energy efficiency calculations.
• Help tenants manage bills.
• Reduce unnecessary energy use.

Again, this can often be completed without major disruption.

Improve Insulation Where Possible

Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, or draught-proofing improvements can deliver noticeable EPC gains.

Simple measures include:

• Sealing gaps around doors and windows.
• Adding loft insulation top-ups.
• Installing chimney balloons or draught excluders.

These changes help retain heat and improve overall property performance.

Address Window Efficiency

While full glazing replacement may not always be practical, landlords can still take steps to improve performance:

• Repair damaged seals.
• Install secondary glazing.
• Use thermal curtains or blinds.

Even modest improvements can contribute positively to EPC calculations.

Don’t Overlook Ventilation and Property Condition

Energy efficiency is closely linked to property condition. Issues such as damp, poor ventilation, or faulty heating systems can undermine performance and tenant satisfaction.

Regular inspections help ensure:

• Heating systems operate efficiently.
• Ventilation pathways remain clear.
• Early signs of damp are identified.
• Maintenance issues are addressed before they escalate.

This proactive approach supports both compliance and long-term asset protection.

Why EPCs Matter for Letting Success

Beyond compliance, energy efficiency has become a major factor in tenant decision-making. Properties with higher EPC ratings:

• Attract tenants faster.
• Command stronger rental demand.
• Reduce void periods.
• Increase property desirability.
• Demonstrate responsible property management.

In areas such as London and Essex, where competition between landlords is high, energy efficiency can be a real differentiator.

The Role of Property Inspections in Maintaining Compliance

While an EPC only needs renewing every 10 years, property condition can change over time. Regular inspections help landlords ensure that heating systems, insulation, and ventilation remain effective.

Mid-tenancy inspections can also highlight emerging issues such as condensation, poor heating performance, or tenant misuse — all of which may impact energy efficiency and compliance expectations.

Maintaining clear records of inspections and maintenance helps demonstrate proactive management if compliance is questioned.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining an EPC is a straightforward but essential step in letting property legally. As energy efficiency standards continue to evolve, landlords who take a proactive approach will be better prepared for future regulation and tenant expectations.

Improving your EPC rating does not always require major expense or disruption. By focusing on practical upgrades and maintaining a proactive inspection schedule, landlords can enhance property performance, attract quality tenants, and stay ahead of future regulatory changes.

Small steps taken today can deliver meaningful benefits for years to come.

Ashworth Group works with landlords across London and Essex to help maintain compliant, well-managed rental properties.

Our services support EPC performance by helping landlords:

• Monitor property condition through mid-tenancy inspections.
• Maintain accurate inventory and inspection documentation.
• Identify early maintenance issues that may affect efficiency.
• Prepare properties effectively for re-letting.

Contact Ashworth Group today if you need more information or you want to book an EPC or about our other services that support responsible property management.