An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that evaluates and rates a property's energy efficiency and its environmental impact based on carbon dioxide emissions. In 2026, EPCs remain important for both tenants and landlords as they provide important information about the cost-effectiveness of a property's heating and lighting systems. Additionally, EPC ratings can significantly influence rental prices and the attractiveness of a home to potential renters. Tenants are entitled to receive an up-to-date EPC before signing any tenancy agreement. Ensuring transparency regarding energy costs and efficiency measures.
What the Law Says
Several statutes govern Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in residential properties. The Housing Act 1988 (Sections 20-23) sets out the responsibilities of landlords to maintain their rental properties but doesn't specifically mention EPCs. However, the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Section 11) requires landlords to keep properties in a good state of repair, which can indirectly relate to energy efficiency measures recommended by an EPC.
The Housing Act 2004 (Sections 213-215) introduced enforcement powers for local authorities to ensure compliance with building regulations and other environmental standards relevant to rental homes. The Deregulation Act 2015 (Section 33) further clarifies that landlords must provide EPCs upon request from tenants.
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 explicitly prohibits charging tenants for producing an EPC, reinforcing the requirement for landlords to bear this cost. Therefore, if a landlord fails to supply an EPC when requested by a tenant, they're in breach of these laws and may face legal consequences.
How the Renters' Rights Act 2025 Changes This
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (RRA) introduces significant changes regarding energy efficiency standards. The act abolishes Section 21 notices, meaning landlords can't end a tenancy without cause unless it's for serious breaches of the lease or other statutory grounds. Additionally, periodic tenancies start from day one, enhancing tenant security and stability.
Under the RRA, annual rent caps via Section 13 ensure that rents don't increase beyond permitted limits, reducing financial strain on tenants. The act also extends the Decent Homes Standard to private rental sector (PRS) properties, mandating higher standards of energy efficiency and structural condition.
Awaab's Law is extended to cover private landlords, ensuring they comply with stricter environmental regulations aimed at improving living conditions and health outcomes for renters. These provisions are complemented by the introduction of a new PRS Ombudsman to handle complaints and disputes more effectively, along with mandatory PRS Database registration for all rental properties.
What This Means for Tenants
Tenants in 2026 have several key rights concerning EPCs under the Renters' Rights Act 2025. They're entitled to receive a valid EPC before signing any tenancy agreement. Providing transparency about the property's energy efficiency and associated costs. If an EPC is outdated or missing, tenants should request an update from their landlord.
If issues arise due to poor energy performance affecting living conditions, tenants may be eligible for compensation or remedial action under local council environmental health guidelines. At Energy performance certificate, additionally, they can seek assistance through [deposit protection](https://thetenantsvoice.co.uk/advice_from_us/deposit-disputes) schemes if disputes involve withholding deposits over non-compliance with EPC requirements.
What This Means for Landlords
Landlords must comply with the legal obligations set forth by the Renters' Rights Act 2025 regarding EPCs. They're required to provide a valid and up-to-date certificate upon request from tenants or during property listings. Failure to do so could result in fines, legal action, or damage to their reputation.
Landlords should also implement any energy efficiency recommendations outlined in the EPC to improve property conditions and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Compliance with these requirements enhances tenant satisfaction and can lead to better rental terms and market appeal for their properties.
Common Scenarios
Scenario 1: Missing or Outdated EPC
A tenant moving into a new home finds that the landlord doesn't provide an up-to-date EPC as required by law. The tenant writes a formal complaint requesting an updated certificate within two weeks of move-in, following guidance from Shelter and Citizens Advice.
Scenario 2: Disputes Over Energy Costs
Tenants experience higher-than-expected energy bills despite being provided with a satisfactory EPC rating. Upon investigation, it appears that the landlord has failed to implement recommended upgrades or repairs indicated in the EPC. The tenants file a dispute through their deposit protection scheme and seek mediation from the PRS Ombudsman.
Scenario 3: Energy Efficiency Improvements
A tenant recognises that several energy-saving measures aren't being implemented as suggested by the EPC, such as insulation installation or boiler replacement. They consult with environmental health officials who confirm non-compliance with local regulations. The landlord is then required to undertake necessary improvements within three months of notification.
Evidence Tenants Should Keep
Tenants should retain copies of all communications regarding an EPC, including emails and letters exchanged with the landlord. Documentation of requests for updates or replacements of outdated certificates is important. Photos of any discrepancies noted in energy efficiency measures are also helpful evidence. Keeping a log of conversations and dates when these were made can support legal actions if disputes arise.
What to Do If Things Go Wrong
If an EPC issue escalates, tenants should first attempt resolution through direct communication with the landlord or letting agent. Should this prove unsuccessful, drafting a formal complaint letter is advisable. Local council environmental health departments may offer additional guidance and enforcement measures.
Next steps could involve submitting disputes to deposit protection schemes if withholding deposits due to non-compliance is an issue. The Housing Ombudsman can mediate more complex cases, while the new PRS Ombudsman handles specific private rental sector complaints efficiently.
For severe breaches of EPC regulations, tenants may seek legal recourse through first-tier tribunals or county courts, though these routes require substantial evidence and preparation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Both tenants and landlords often make common mistakes regarding EPCs. Tenants might overlook the importance of obtaining an up-to-date certificate before signing agreements, while landlords could fail to provide one promptly upon request or neglect implementing recommended improvements outlined in the EPC.
Neglecting energy efficiency recommendations can lead to higher utility costs for tenants and potential legal penalties for landlords. At Energy performance certificate, misunderstanding the validity period of EPCs and ignoring local council guidelines further complicates compliance and dispute resolution processes.
Where to Get Help
For additional guidance, tenants and landlords can consult organisations such as Shelter (shelter.org.uk) or Citizens Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk). Local councils' housing teams also offer valuable support on specific legal requirements and enforcement actions. Legal aid may be available for certain cases involving significant disputes or breaches of EPC regulations.
These resources provide full advice tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and protecting the rights of all parties involved in rental agreements.