Landlords: FAQs
Do I need an EPC for my domestic property?
Anyone who sells or rents out a property needs an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) unless it is:
- A place of worship
- A temporary structure
- A standalone building of less than 50m2
- A listed building (but only where the improvements would unacceptably alter the character or appearance of the property)
A landlord must provide a tenant with a copy of the EPC or face a fine of £200.
What is the minimum EPC rating, how do I know if I already have an EPC and what does it score?
Landlords will need to ensure that their rental properties have a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030. This is in preparation for new legislation where the current mandatory EPC E will become a mandatory EPC C, as part of the Government’s Warm Homes Plan. In order to reach an EPC rating C, a property must have between 69-80 points. We can help you futureproof your property, for more information on solutions and grants available, see our Futureproof your home section.
You can search via your postcode on the government’s EPC Register.
Are there any exemptions from having to reach an E on my EPC?
Yes, there are various exemptions. For example, if the cost of improvements will go over £3,500 incl. VAT; or the improvement would devalue the property; or a tenant does not give permission to have works carried out. A landlord would need to register these exemptions on the PRS Exemptions Register.
What is the HHSRS (Housing Health & Safety Rating System)?
This also applies to rented properties. It was introduced under the Housing Act 2004 and ensures a property is free from unacceptable hazards, e.g. adequately heated, without damp and mould, safe electrics, and conforms to fire safety standards. There are no exemptions from complying with this. Compliance is enforced by the local Council and non-compliance can lead to fines of up to £30,000 and criminal prosecution.
Does the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) scheme apply to landlords?
Yes, the HUG scheme is available to landlords and tenants. The Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) Scheme is a grant-funded energy efficiency scheme from the Government. Delivered by Cornwall Council, the scheme aims to fund energy efficiency measures on a ‘fabric-first’ (insulation) basis for homes in Cornwall that do not use mains (natural) gas as their primary heat source; and aims to improve the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of homes with a range of energy-saving measures.
This scheme is now closed to new applications, details of any future schemes will be added when this information becomes available from Central Government.
Can I improve the energy efficiency of my listed building?
Yes. There are plenty of improvements that can be made which would be approved by a conservation officer e.g. loft insulation and heating upgrades. Our guidance on historic buildings gives you some ideas and examples – see MEES information below. For more indepth advice, contact our Landlord Liaison Officer on landlords@cep.org.uk or 0800 954 1956.
What are Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)?
MEES were introduced in 2015, but from April 2020, they are applicable to all domestic tenancies where a property legally requires an EPC and is let on a qualifying tenancy. It sets a minimum standard of an E on the EPC which means that properties that score an F or G on the EPC will no longer be legally lettable. More information can be found on guidance leaflets from Cornwall Council: MEES Guidance leaflet and MEES Guidance leaflet for landlords with historic buildings
