Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings regime

Written By Sandra Hu

The UK government has launched an open consultation on proposed reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) regime, aiming to modernise Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and their role in property regulation. This 64-page consultation, with 48 key questions, outlines several potential changes that could impact landlords, property owners, and investors.

Why Is the EPC Framework Under Review?

The government states that this consultation aims to address key issues with the current EPC system, including:

  • Limited Metrics – The existing EPC framework relies on a single headline rating, which does not fully capture a building’s energy performance.

  • Outdated Validity Periods – EPCs are currently valid for up to 10 years, even though property energy performance may change significantly within that time.

  • Assessment Methodology Issues – Current EPC calculations may not accurately reflect a building’s true energy efficiency, particularly in relation to low-carbon technologies like heat pumps and solar PV.

Key Proposed Changes in the EPC Consultation

The consultation explores several proposed changes that could directly impact how EPCs are used, measured, and enforced. Some of the most notable include:

New EPC Metrics – A Shift to Multiple Indicators

Rather than relying on a single headline rating, the government is considering introducing multiple performance indicators, including:

  • Energy Cost – Estimated running costs for occupants.

  • Carbon Emissions – Total CO₂ output from energy use.

  • Energy Use – Overall energy consumption in kWh/m².

  • Fabric Performance – Efficiency of insulation and the building envelope.

  • Heating System Efficiency – Effectiveness of heating technology.

  • Smart Readiness – The building’s ability to integrate with smart energy management.

This shift aims to provide a more accurate picture of a property’s energy performance and better reflect the role of renewables. Currently, EPCs are cost-driven, meaning heat pumps and other low-carbon technologies can appear less efficient due to high electricity prices, even though they reduce carbon emissions.

Shorter EPC Validity Periods

  • Currently, EPCs are valid for 10 years, but this can lead to outdated assessments.

  • The consultation proposes reducing EPC validity periods to ensure ratings reflect real-world building performance and updated energy efficiency standards.

  • This would also prevent landlords from relying on old EPCs that may no longer comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

Pre-Market EPC Requirement

  • Currently, properties can be listed for sale or rent before an EPC is issued, as long as one is commissioned within 28 days.

  • The proposed change would require an EPC before marketing, ensuring buyers and tenants have full transparency on a property’s energy performance from the outset.

  • This change would strengthen MEES enforcement, preventing landlords from listing non-compliant properties without a valid EPC.

Stricter MEES Enforcement and Future Targets

  • MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards) currently prohibit landlords from renting out properties with an EPC rating below E.

  • The government has signalled an intention to raise this requirement to C by 2030 for both domestic and non-domestic properties.

  • The proposed EPC reforms would tighten enforcement mechanisms, making it harder for landlords to bypass MEES regulations by relying on outdated certificates.

EPCs for Heritage Buildings

  • Currently, heritage properties are often exempt from EPC requirements.

  • The consultation proposes removing or limiting these exemptions, requiring more listed buildings to obtain an EPC—but with tailored guidance to preserve their character.

What Happens Next?

The consultation process is ongoing, and findings will be consolidated over the next year. The government states that any decided changes are expected to be implemented in the second half of 2026.

Implications for Property Owners and Landlords

  • More Accurate EPCs – The proposed changes would provide a more comprehensive view of a property’s energy efficiency.

  • More Frequent Updates – Shorter validity periods mean regular EPC renewals, preventing outdated assessments.

  • Tighter MEES Enforcement – Stricter rules could make it harder to let non-compliant properties, pushing landlords toward energy efficiency upgrades.

  • Potential Higher Costs – Stricter EPC rules could require landlords to invest in energy efficiency measures sooner than expected.

Sandra Hu
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