EPC Requirements for Rental Properties: What Landlords Need to Know by 2030

Understanding EPC Ratings in the Rental Market

If you rent out residential property in the UK, you’ll already know that an EPC — or Energy Performance Certificate — is a legal requirement. But with new government proposals in place, landlords need to do more than just meet the minimum standard.

Currently, all rental properties must have a minimum EPC rating of E. However, the government has announced plans to raise this to an EPC C rating by 2030. For landlords and property investors, this means factoring in energy performance alongside every refurbishment or buy-to-let purchase.

At Roberts Renovations, we work with landlords across Yorkshire and beyond to futureproof rental properties through design-led upgrades. From insulation and heating systems to full rental property renovation in Leeds, we ensure each project is compliant and investment-ready.

EPC Regulations for Landlords in 2024

Since April 2020, landlords in England and Wales have been legally required to ensure their rental properties meet a minimum EPC rating of E. This rule applies to both new and existing tenancies, and penalties may apply for non-compliance unless an exemption is in place.

Many landlords are unaware that EPC certificates are valid for 10 years. If yours is close to expiry, now is the time to check the recommendations in the report and plan upgrades. These suggestions often include small changes that improve efficiency, such as insulation, LED lighting or heating controls.

Full details are available on the UK Government website, including eligibility for exemptions and enforcement rules.

What Are the 2030 EPC Proposals?

The government initially proposed increasing the minimum rating to EPC C by 2025 for new tenancies and by 2028 for all tenancies. These dates have since been pushed back, with 2030 now expected as the earliest target for new regulation.

This delay gives landlords more time to prepare, but the direction is clear. Any rental property below a C rating may require energy efficiency upgrades by the end of the decade. Investors and landlords should take this opportunity to plan improvements gradually and avoid rushing costly upgrades closer to the deadline.

A clear breakdown of the proposed rules and timelines can be found on Simply Business.

Why the Government Is Raising EPC Standards

This initiative supports wider national goals to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency across the UK’s housing stock. It is also aimed at reducing heating bills and improving tenant comfort, especially in older homes.

For landlords and developers, the changes are an opportunity to improve long-term property value and reduce maintenance issues. Many properties with low EPC ratings suffer from poor insulation, condensation, and inefficient heating — all of which affect tenant retention and operating costs.

Which Landlords Will Be Affected?

If your rental property is currently rated D or E, you will likely need to carry out improvements to meet the new requirements. These changes will affect:

• Buy-to-let investors
• HMO landlords
• Limited company portfolios
• Developers converting flats or houses for rent

Many of the changes needed to improve EPC ratings — like upgrading insulation or windows — can be built into wider property renovations or refurbishments. For landlords unsure where to start, our property investment services provide tailored support across sourcing, design and compliance.

Rothwell Renovation: EPC Upgrade from E to C

In one of our recent projects in Rothwell, the rental property had an EPC rating of E. As part of a full renovation, we improved energy performance by:

• Replacing the roof with modern materials
• Adding external wall insulation on all exterior-facing walls
• Installing new double-glazed windows
• Fitting energy-efficient doors front and back

These upgrades helped the property achieve a C rating, bringing it in line with expected 2030 requirements and improving overall comfort and heating efficiency. Where possible, we support landlords in reaching EPC C through integrated renovation planning.

How to Prepare Your Property for the EPC Changes

If your EPC is rated D or lower, here are a few steps to consider:

• Review your current EPC certificate and recommended improvements
• Identify areas for quick wins like loft insulation or LED lighting
• Plan for long-term upgrades such as glazing or boiler replacements
• Incorporate EPC improvements into larger renovation works

You can also explore our property investment or rental property renovation services to build a tailored action plan that supports compliance and long-term value.

In our next blog, we’ll explore specific ways to improve energy efficiency in rental properties, from small upgrades to major retrofits. In the meantime, you can read our full guide on how to improve energy efficiency in your home for practical tips on insulation, smart heating, and energy-saving renovations.

Getting Ahead of the EPC Deadline

The 2030 EPC rule change is not yet law, but it’s widely expected. Landlords and investors who act now will avoid the rush, control their costs, and ensure their properties remain competitive in the rental market.

Whether you’re updating a single let or managing a portfolio, it’s time to start reviewing EPCs and planning energy upgrades. If you’d like expert guidance from a team that understands rental renovation, get in touch with Roberts Renovat