Preparing for the EPC C minimum standard
The direction of travel for privately rented homes in England and Wales is a minimum EPC of C for new tenancies, with all tenancies following later. Planning improvements over several years is far cheaper than a deadline scramble.
4 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
The direction of travel for privately rented homes in England and Wales is a minimum EPC of C for new tenancies, with all tenancies following later. Planning improvements over several years is far cheaper than a deadline scramble.
Read the recommendation report
The EPC recommendation report ranks measures by cost and impact. Loft insulation, cavity fill, heating controls and low-energy lighting usually deliver the cheapest points.
Where properties get stuck
Solid-wall Victorian terraces and older flats with restricted heating options are the hardest cases. Internal wall insulation and heating upgrades are the realistic levers, and both need planning around a void.
Exemptions
Exemptions exist for high cost, wall insulation that would damage the property, and consent refusals. They must be registered with evidence and are time-limited, not permanent.
Sequencing
Do EPC work during voids, bundle it with kitchen or bathroom replacement, and re-lodge the certificate afterwards so the improvement is recorded.
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This guide is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.