Energy Performance Certificate

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)

Since 1 April 2020, the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations (2015) made it unlawful to rent out a domestic property with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of F or G (unless a valid exemption has been registered on the private rental sector PRS Exemptions Register).

The regulations cover all relevant properties in the private rental sector, even where there has been no change of tenancy.  Newport City Council has a duty to enforce these regulations.

Download the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards - A Guide for Landlords and Letting Agents (pdf)

What is an EPC?

An EPC gives the property an energy efficiency rating. It also gives recommendations about how the energy use could be reduced, lowering running costs:

Properties rated as A are the most energy efficient and properties rated G are the least efficient.  Properties rated F or G are non-compliant.

Landlords must:

  • Not market or let the property until an EPC rating of E or above is obtained. Tenants must also be given a copy of the EPC.

  • Ensure rented properties have a valid EPC with a minimum ‘E’ rating.

  • Register a valid PRS exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register.

Failure to do either of these is a breach of the regulations.

EPCs are valid for 10 years (unless a new valid certificate is commissioned within this time).  It must be provided by the owner of a property when it is rented or sold. 

Exemptions

The Regulations stop landlords from letting properties with an EPC rating below E. 

There are some exemptions and landlords must apply for an exemption which is recorded on the Private Rented Sector Exemptions Register.

To exempt a property landlords should apply to register this as soon as possible to remain compliant.

Find out more information about exemptions

Useful information