Landlords are being encouraged to review their EPC certificates after the government pushed back the launch date of its reformed Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regime to the second half of 2027.

It had planned to announce the new methodology - the way in which EPCs are calculated - in October, but ministers said this has been delayed following “engagement with industry on the delivery timeline”.  

Landlords will still be expected to reach an EPC C on rental properties by October 2030. An MHCLG spokesperson tells LandlordZONE: “The shift to the EPC timeline has no impact on private rented sector or social rented sector minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) compliance deadlines. Landlords should continue with their plans to improve the energy performance of their homes to ensure their tenants have high quality, decent homes as soon as possible.”  

However, the NRLA says the delay in publishing the new methodology prolongs the uncertainty surrounding the system’s future, which could undermine landlords’ confidence around when to start the upgrades.  

Valid

EPCs remain valid for 10 years, but the new assessment framework launching in 2027 might use a different methodology to calculate ratings. This means that a C rating under today’s system isn’t guaranteed to remain a C under the reformed framework.

“If your EPC expires before 2030, it may be worth considering renewing your certificate to ensure you have some extra time ahead to prepare, even when the new system is in place,” it advises.

Vacant

For landlords planning works or expecting a vacant property before the new rules are introduced, this could be a valuable opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new rules.

“Where possible, starting with fabric improvements may be a sensible approach. The government has indicated that the fabric element of the Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) calculation is likely to remain broadly similar in the new framework.

“Any upgrade costs incurred from October last year will count towards the future cost cap. This means that landlords who carry out improvements now may already be making progress towards meeting future regulatory requirements.”

The government has previously confirmed that new metrics for reformed domestic EPCs will be fabric performance, heating system, smart readiness and energy costs.

‍