New Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Reforms Delayed to 2027

The UK government has postponed the launch of the new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) framework to the second half of 2027. The delay follows industry feedback that the original October launch date was too ambitious.

Why the Launch Was Delayed

• Industry groups warned that software, training, and operational systems were not ready.
• Government acknowledged the timeline was “ambitious” and required more development time.
• A revised launch date and implementation plan will be agreed with industry and devolved administrations by summer 2026.

What the EPC Reforms Will Change

New Multi‑Metric EPC Rating

The current single cost‑based metric (A–G) will be replaced by four separate measures:

• Energy cost — running cost of the property.
• Fabric performance — insulation, airtightness, and building envelope quality.
• Heating system — efficiency and carbon impact of heating technologies.
• Smart readiness — ability to use smart controls and flexible energy technologies.

The government says this will give consumers clearer, more actionable information.

New EPC Requirements

The reforms also change when an EPC must be provided:

• HMOs — a full‑property EPC required even when only one room is let.
• Short‑term lets — EPC required regardless of who pays the energy bills.
• Heritage properties — removal of existing EPC exemptions.

These changes aim to create consistency across the private rented sector and help landlords and tenants understand energy performance more accurately.

Impact on Key Groups

Landlords

• Tighter window between the new EPC system going live and future MEES compliance deadlines.
• Early fabric and heating upgrades may still align well with the new metrics.

Homeowners

• More detailed EPCs will help identify the most effective improvements.
• The delay provides more time to plan upgrades before the methodology changes.

Assessors and Industry

• Additional time to update software, retrain assessors, and adjust accreditation processes.
• Clearer guidance expected in 2026.

FAQs

Why is the government changing EPCs?

To provide more accurate, performance‑based information that reflects modern heating systems, insulation standards, and smart technologies.

Does the delay change future minimum EPC requirements?

No. The direction of travel remains toward higher energy efficiency standards, including the expectation of EPC C for rentals later in the decade.

Will EPC ratings look different?

Yes. The new system will show multiple metrics rather than a single A–G score based solely on cost.

Are heritage buildings still exempt?

No. Exemptions for heritage properties will be removed under the new rules.

When will the new launch date be confirmed?

By summer 2026, following further work with industry and devolved administrations.