The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Sector) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 will make it unlawful from April 2018 to let residential or commercial properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘F’ or ‘G’ (i.e. the lowest 2 grades of energy efficiency).
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – a certificate (and associated report) that sets out the energy efficiency rating of a property and contains recommendations for ways in which the efficiency of the property could be improved. Virtually all domestic and non-domestic buildings sold, rented out or constructed since 2008 must have an EPC. An EPC may also be required when a property is altered in particular ways.
The energy we use for heating and powering our non-domestic buildings is responsible for around 12% of the UK’s emissions. Around 60% of today’s non-domestic buildings will still exist in 2050, representing around 40-45% of the total floor space4 . Whilst standards to tackle the performance of new buildings have been in place for some time, minimum standards to drive improvements in the performance of the existing stock through energy efficiency upgrades are essential going forward to tackle energy used and reduce emissions across the non-domestic stock.
Increasing the energy efficiency of our non-domestic stock can help smooth seasonal peaks in energy demand, and thereby increase our energy security. Increased demand for energy efficiency measures is also likely to support growth and jobs within the green construction industry and the wider supply chain for energy efficiency measures. Greater competition within these markets may also spur innovation, lowering the end costs of installing measures to business and households, and help sustain jobs.
From 1 April 2018, landlords of non-domestic private rented properties (including public sector landlords) may not grant a tenancy to new or existing tenants if their property has an EPC rating of band F or G (shown on a valid Energy Performance Certificate for the property).
From 1 April 2023, landlords must not continue letting a non-domestic property which is already let if that property has an EPC rating of band F or G.
The Private Rented Property minimum standard – landlord guidance documents
