📞 020 3488 4142
✉️ info@epcrate.co.uk
📍 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX
WhatsApp Us
Accredited Assessors · England & Wales

EPC Certificates,
Reimagined
with AI.

EPCAI delivers fast, fully accredited Energy Performance Certificates for landlords, estate agents, and homeowners — with AI-assisted reporting, instant quotes, and same-day bookings across London and England.

Fully Accredited DEAs Certificate in 24hrs From £65 inc. VAT National Register Floor Plans
Instant Quote Calculator
Get your fixed price
EPC Only
From £65
📐
Floor Plan
From £65
🎁
Bundle
Best value
Your Price (inc. VAT)
Fixed · No hidden fees
£—
No payment required at booking · Call 020 3488 4142
10 Years Valid
24hr Certificate
From £65 inc. VAT
RdSAP Approved
Min E to Let
England & Wales Coverage
The Assessment

What Our EPC Assessor Inspects

Our accredited Domestic Energy Assessors use the government-approved RdSAP methodology to produce a fully compliant Energy Performance Certificate.

🧱

Structure & Fabric

  • Wall type (cavity, solid, insulated)
  • Loft & floor insulation depth
  • Window glazing — single, double, triple
  • Property age band & construction
🔥

Heating System

  • Boiler type, fuel & age
  • Heat pumps (air & ground source)
  • Storage heaters & controls
  • Thermostats, TRVs & programmers
💧

Hot Water

  • Cylinder type & insulation jacket
  • Immersion heaters
  • Solar thermal & heat pump water heating
💡

Lighting

  • % fixed low-energy fittings
  • LED, halogen & fluorescent
  • Smart lighting systems
☀️

Renewables

  • Solar PV panels & output
  • Battery storage systems
  • Solar thermal collectors
📐

Property Dimensions

  • Room-by-room measurements
  • Total floor area (m²)
  • Number of storeys & extensions
AI-Powered

Smarter EPCs with Artificial Intelligence

EPCAI uses intelligent tools to streamline your assessment, surface improvement recommendations, and deliver your certificate faster than traditional methods.

Core AI Feature
🤖
AI Energy Analysis & Improvement Roadmap
After your assessment, our AI analyses your property's energy profile and generates a personalised improvement plan — showing which upgrades move your EPC rating the furthest for the least cost. From loft insulation to solar PV, you'll know exactly what to prioritise to reach a C or above.
Wall Insulation
82%
Boiler Efficiency
67%
Glazing
91%
Lighting
55%
Renewables
40%
B
Projected Rating
📅
Same-Day Booking
Our intelligent scheduling matches you with the nearest available accredited assessor — often with same-day or next-morning availability across London and surrounding areas.
📄
24hr Digital Certificate
Your EPC is generated, quality-checked, and lodged on the GOV.UK Energy Performance Register within 24 hours of the visit. Emailed directly as a PDF.
📊
MEES Compliance Check
Instantly know if your property meets Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards. We flag F and G rated properties and provide a clear, costed action plan to achieve compliance.
🔄
Portfolio Tracking
Landlords managing multiple properties can track all EPC expiry dates, current ratings, and compliance status in one place. Ideal for letting agents and portfolio landlords.
The Process

Your EPC in 4 Simple Steps

From booking to certificate lodged on the national EPC register — usually within 24 hours of our assessor's visit.

1
Get an Instant Quote
Use our calculator above to get a fixed price in seconds based on your property type and size. No hidden fees.
2
Book Your Slot
Choose your preferred date and time online, by phone on 020 3488 4142, or via WhatsApp. We confirm within 2 hours.
3
Assessor Visits
Our accredited DEA attends and carries out a full inspection — typically 30 to 90 minutes depending on property size.
4
Certificate Delivered
Your EPC is lodged on the national register and emailed to you as a PDF within 24 hours of the visit.
EPC Energy Efficiency Ratings — A (Most Efficient) to G (Least Efficient)
⚠️ MEES Regulations: Properties must achieve minimum E rating to be legally rented. F & G rated properties cannot be let without a valid exemption. C rating expected for new tenancies from 2028.
EPC Knowledge Hub

Landlord & Property Guides

Expert advice on EPC ratings, MEES compliance, energy improvements, end of tenancy, and the upcoming 2028 rule changes — everything landlords and agents need to know.

💷
Costs & Pricing

EPC Certificate Cost in London 2026 — Full Price Guide

How much should you pay for an EPC? We break down prices by property type and size, and explain what a quality assessment includes.

April 2026 · 4 min readRead more →
☀️
Energy Improvements

How to Improve Your EPC Rating Cheaply — 10 Quick Wins

From LED lighting to loft insulation, discover the most cost-effective ways to boost your EPC rating before your next tenancy or sale.

March 2026 · 6 min readRead more →
🔑
End of Tenancy

End of Tenancy Refurbishment — A Landlord's Complete Checklist

What to do between tenancies to protect your investment, meet legal obligations, and attract quality tenants faster.

May 2026 · 7 min readRead more →
2028 Rule Changes

New EPC Rules 2028 — What Landlords Must Do Right Now

The government expects a minimum C rating for new tenancies from 2028. Around 60% of rented properties currently fall below this. Here's your action plan.

April 2026 · 5 min readRead more →
🌞
Solar & Renewables

Does Solar PV Improve Your EPC Rating? The Real Impact Explained

Solar panels can dramatically improve an EPC rating — sometimes by two full bands. Here's exactly how solar PV affects your SAP score.

March 2026 · 5 min readRead more →
🔌
EICR & Electrical

EICR Testing for Landlords — What It Is and When You Need One

Electrical Installation Condition Reports are legally required for rental properties every 5 years. Here's what the test covers and what to do if you fail.

February 2026 · 4 min readRead more →
View All Guides & Articles
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything landlords, estate agents, and homeowners ask us before booking an EPC in London and England.

An EPC is valid for 10 years. You can check if your property already has a valid certificate on the GOV.UK Energy Performance Register using your postcode before booking a new one.
Under MEES regulations, landlords in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E before granting a new tenancy. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let without a valid exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register. A C rating minimum is expected for new tenancies from 2028.
EPCAI prices start from £65 inc. VAT for a studio or 1-bed flat, rising to £138 for a large 5+ bed detached house. Commercial EPCs start from £150. All prices are fixed with no hidden fees, and include lodgement on the national register.
Our AI improvement report identifies the most cost-effective upgrades to bring your property to an E or above. Common improvements include loft insulation, draught-proofing, and boiler upgrades. EPCRATE can assist with solar PV installation and other energy improvements to maximise your rating.
Not necessarily. The assessor needs access to all rooms, the loft, and utility cupboards. You can arrange for a tenant, letting agent, or trusted person to provide access. Please mention access arrangements when booking.
In most cases your EPC is lodged on the national register and emailed within 24 hours of the assessor's visit. For urgent requirements, same-day processing may be available — call 020 3488 4142 or WhatsApp us to discuss.
Studio or 1-bed flat: 30–45 mins. 2–3 bed house: 45–60 mins. Large detached or 4+ bed: 60–90 mins. The assessor measures rooms and inspects heating, insulation, windows, and any renewable systems.
We cover Greater London and surrounding counties across England and Wales. We are based at 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX. Call 020 3488 4142 or use our quote calculator to check availability in your postcode.
Book Your Assessment

Ready to Get Certified?

Fill in the form and our team will confirm your appointment within 2 hours. No upfront payment required. Alternatively call 020 3488 4142 or WhatsApp us.

⚖️
Legal ComplianceRequired for all property sales and rentals in England & Wales under current EPC and MEES regulations.
🏛️
National Register LodgementAll EPCs submitted to GOV.UK Energy Performance Register. Valid 10 years from date of issue.
🌿
Powered by EPCRATEEPCAI is the AI platform of EPCRATE — London's trusted energy services company since 2015.
📋

Appointment Request

Confirmed within 2 working hours · info@epcrate.co.uk · 020 3488 4142
Secure booking — no payment required today

✅ Booking Request Received!

Our team will contact you at the email and phone number provided within 2 hours to confirm your appointment.

Google Reviews

What Our Clients
Say About Us

5.0
Based on Google reviews
See all reviews
S
Satisfied Customer
Google Review
"EPC rate provided excellent service with very reasonable cost. Jino conducted the assessment on the same day and the report was detailed and delivered promptly in less than 24 hours, giving us valuable insights into improving our home's energy efficiency. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is commendable. Highly recommend."
Verified Google Review
G
Google Reviewer
Google Review
"I had both an EPC and a Floorplan done. It was a punctual and professional service carried out by Jino — the kind of respectful person that you feel comfortable letting roam around your property. Highly recommended."
Verified Google Review
P
Property Owner
Google Review
"I initially chose EPCRATE for the reasonable fee, and I'm glad I did. Jino did the EPC test efficiently — he is a very pleasant and helpful person. I highly recommend him."
Verified Google Review
Read All Reviews on Google
Happy with our service? Leave us a review →
Get in Touch

Contact EPCAI

Speak to our team directly — by phone, email, or WhatsApp. We're available Monday to Saturday, 8am–6pm.

📞
Call Us
Mon–Sat · 8am–6pm
Call Now
✉️
Email Us
We reply within 2 hours
Send Email
💬
WhatsApp Us
020 3488 4142
Instant messaging · 8am–8pm
Open WhatsApp
📍 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX  ·  Powered by EPCRATE Ltd · Est. 2015
Technology & Expertise
×

EPCAI is the AI-powered digital platform of EPCRATE — London's trusted energy services company established in 2015. Our accredited assessors combine years of expertise with modern AI tools to deliver faster, smarter EPCs.

⚡ EPC Certificates📐 Floor Plans☀️ Solar PV🔋 Battery Storage🚗 EV Charging🔌 EICR Testing🏠 End of Tenancy Refurbishment
1
← Back to EPCAI

Privacy Policy

Last updated: May 2026 · EPCAI (epcai.co.uk) · Powered by EPCRATE Ltd

Your privacy matters to us. This policy explains how EPCAI (operated by EPCRATE Ltd) collects, uses, and protects your personal data in accordance with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.

1. Who We Are

EPCAI is operated by EPCRATE Ltd (also trading as LondonEPC Limited), registered at 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, United Kingdom. We are the data controller for personal data collected through epcai.co.uk. Contact us at info@epcrate.co.uk or 020 3488 4142.

2. What Data We Collect

We collect the following personal data when you use our website or contact us:

  • Identity data: first name, last name
  • Contact data: email address, phone number
  • Property data: property address, postcode, property type
  • Booking data: preferred appointment date and time
  • Technical data: IP address, browser type, pages visited (via cookies)
  • Chat data: messages submitted through our website chatbot

3. How We Use Your Data

We use your personal data for the following purposes:

  • To process and confirm EPC assessment bookings
  • To contact you regarding your appointment
  • To deliver your EPC certificate and related documentation
  • To respond to your enquiries via phone, email, or chat
  • To comply with legal obligations (MEES, accreditation requirements)
  • To improve our website and services

4. Legal Basis for Processing

We process your data on the basis of: (a) contract performance — to deliver the EPC service you have booked; (b) legitimate interests — to manage our business and communicate with you; and (c) legal obligation — to meet our regulatory and accreditation requirements.

5. Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data. We may share data with:

  • Accredited energy assessors who carry out your assessment
  • The GOV.UK Energy Performance Register (required by law)
  • WhatsApp (Meta Platforms) — when you use our WhatsApp chat feature
  • IT and hosting service providers who support our operations

6. Data Retention

We retain booking and contact records for 6 years in line with HMRC requirements. EPC assessment data is retained as required by our accreditation body. You may request deletion of your data subject to legal retention obligations.

7. Your Rights

Under UK GDPR you have the right to: access your data, correct inaccurate data, request erasure, restrict processing, data portability, and object to processing. To exercise any right, contact info@epcrate.co.uk. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) at ico.org.uk.

8. Cookies

We use essential cookies to make our website work, and optional analytics cookies to understand how visitors use our site. See our Cookie Policy for full details.

9. Contact

For any privacy enquiries: info@epcrate.co.uk · 020 3488 4142 · 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX

← Back to EPCAI

Terms of Service

Last updated: May 2026 · EPCAI (epcai.co.uk) · Powered by EPCRATE Ltd

By using epcai.co.uk or booking an EPC assessment, you agree to these terms. Please read them carefully.

1. About EPCAI

EPCAI (epcai.co.uk) is a trading platform operated by EPCRATE Ltd (LondonEPC Limited), 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX. Our accredited Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs) provide Energy Performance Certificates in accordance with the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012.

2. Booking & Appointments

Submitting a booking request via our website or chatbot constitutes an enquiry, not a confirmed booking. Your appointment is confirmed only when you receive a written confirmation from our team by email or phone. We aim to confirm all bookings within 2 working hours during our operating hours (Mon–Sat 8am–6pm).

3. Pricing

All prices shown on our website are indicative and include VAT unless otherwise stated. Final pricing is confirmed at the time of booking confirmation. Prices are based on property type and size as declared at the time of booking. Where access to the property reveals material differences, we reserve the right to amend the quoted price.

4. Cancellation Policy

  • More than 24 hours notice: free cancellation or rescheduling
  • Less than 24 hours notice: a cancellation fee of up to 50% of the quoted price may apply
  • No access at appointment time: full fee may be charged

5. Access Requirements

You are responsible for ensuring that the assessor has full access to all rooms, loft space, and utility areas at the agreed appointment time. Restricted access may result in an incomplete or inaccurate EPC, for which EPCAI cannot be held responsible.

6. EPC Accuracy

Our assessors use the government-approved RdSAP methodology. The EPC reflects the information available at the time of assessment. If you believe information was recorded inaccurately, please contact us within 14 days of the certificate being issued.

7. Limitation of Liability

Our liability to you for any losses arising from our services is limited to the amount paid for the relevant service. We are not liable for indirect or consequential losses, loss of rental income, or fines arising from non-compliance where you have failed to book an assessment in sufficient time.

8. Governing Law

These terms are governed by English law. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

9. Contact

info@epcrate.co.uk · 020 3488 4142 · 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX

← Back to EPCAI

Cookie Policy

Last updated: May 2026 · EPCAI (epcai.co.uk)

This website uses cookies to function correctly and to help us understand how visitors use our site. This policy explains what cookies we use and why.

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They help websites remember information about your visit and improve your experience.

Cookies We Use

Essential Cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be disabled. They include session cookies that remember your quote calculator choices and form progress.

Analytics Cookies

We may use analytics tools (such as Google Analytics) to understand how visitors interact with our website — which pages are most visited, how long visitors stay, and where they arrive from. This data is anonymised and helps us improve our service.

Third-Party Cookies

If you interact with our WhatsApp chat button, Meta (WhatsApp's parent company) may set cookies. We have no control over these third-party cookies. Please review Meta's privacy policy for details.

Managing Cookies

You can control and delete cookies through your browser settings. Note that disabling cookies may affect the functionality of this website. For more information, visit aboutcookies.org.

Contact

For cookie-related enquiries: info@epcrate.co.uk

← Back to EPCAI
EPC Rules 2026

Minimum EPC Rating to Rent a Property — What Every Landlord Must Know

Published May 2026 · 5 min read · By EPCAI Team

Under MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards), all privately rented properties in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E to be legally let. Properties rated F or G cannot be rented out without a valid exemption. A C rating minimum is expected for new tenancies from 2028.

What Is MEES?

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) were introduced under the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015. They set a minimum energy efficiency standard that landlords must meet before letting a property.

Since April 2020, it has been unlawful to let a domestic property with an EPC rating below E — even to existing tenants continuing under the same tenancy. Landlords who fail to comply can face fines of up to £5,000 per property.

What Ratings Are Affected?

Properties rated F or G on their EPC cannot be legally rented without a valid exemption registered on the PRS Exemptions Register. Properties rated E, D, C, B, or A currently meet the minimum standard.

The 2028 Rule Change

The government has signalled that from 2028, new tenancies will require a minimum C rating. This is a significant change — currently around 60% of rented properties in England are rated D or below. Landlords should act now to plan improvements ahead of the deadline rather than face a rush closer to 2028.

What to Do If Your Property Is Rated F or G

If your property is currently rated F or G, you have two options: make improvements to raise the rating to E or above, or apply for an exemption if improvements are not technically feasible or cost-effective.

Common improvements that raise EPC ratings from F/G to E include: loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, draught-proofing, upgrading to a more efficient boiler, and switching to low-energy LED lighting. Solar PV panels can also make a significant difference to ratings.

How to Check Your Current EPC

You can check whether your property already has a valid EPC on the GOV.UK Energy Performance Register at gov.uk/find-energy-certificate. EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date of issue.

Book Your EPC Assessment

If your EPC has expired or you need a new assessment, EPCAI provides fully accredited EPC certificates from £65 inc. VAT with 24-hour turnaround across London and England.

Book Your EPC Assessment →
← Back to EPCAI
Costs & Pricing

EPC Certificate Cost in London 2026 — Full Price Guide

Published April 2026 · 4 min read · By EPCAI Team

EPC certificates in London typically cost between £65 and £150 for residential properties depending on size. EPCAI prices start from £65 inc. VAT for a studio or 1-bed flat, with no hidden fees and 24hr certificate delivery.

What Does an EPC Cost in London?

The cost of an EPC depends mainly on property type and size. In London, prices have risen slightly since 2024 due to higher operating costs for assessors. Here is a current guide to EPCAI's fixed prices:

  • Studio / 1-bed flat: £65 inc. VAT
  • 2-bedroom property: £72–76 inc. VAT
  • 3-bedroom property: £82–92 inc. VAT
  • 4-bedroom property: £92–118 inc. VAT
  • 5+ bedroom property: £105–138 inc. VAT
  • Commercial EPC: from £150 inc. VAT

What Is Included in the Price?

All EPCAI prices include the full on-site assessment, RdSAP calculation, certificate production, lodgement on the GOV.UK Energy Performance Register, and email delivery within 24 hours. There are no additional charges.

Why Do Prices Vary?

EPC prices vary based on property size (larger properties take longer to assess), property type (commercial EPCs require specialist assessors), and location. London prices are typically slightly higher than the national average due to travel time and operating costs.

How to Avoid Overpaying

Some estate agents charge £100–£200 for EPCs by outsourcing to assessors at a significant mark-up. Booking directly with an accredited assessor like EPCAI is always cheaper. Be wary of very cheap EPCs below £50 — these may not be properly accredited or may cut corners on the assessment.

Get an Instant Quote →
← Back to EPCAI
Energy Improvements

How to Improve Your EPC Rating Cheaply — 10 Quick Wins

Published March 2026 · 6 min read · By EPCAI Team

Many properties can improve their EPC rating by one or two bands with relatively low-cost improvements. Here are the 10 most cost-effective ways to boost your rating before a sale, let, or re-assessment.

Why Improving Your EPC Rating Matters

A better EPC rating isn't just about compliance — it also increases your property's value and appeal to buyers and tenants, reduces energy bills, and future-proofs against tighter regulations expected from 2028.

10 Cost-Effective Improvements

1. Switch to LED Lighting (from £30)

Replacing all fixed halogen and fluorescent fittings with LED bulbs is one of the cheapest and fastest improvements. The EPC assessment scores properties on the percentage of fixed low-energy lighting — switching to 100% LED can improve the lighting score significantly.

2. Loft Insulation (from £300)

If your loft has less than 100mm of insulation (or none at all), topping up to 270mm is one of the highest-impact improvements available. Government grants may be available through the Great British Insulation Scheme.

3. Cavity Wall Insulation (from £500)

Properties with uninsulated cavity walls lose a significant amount of heat. Cavity wall insulation is quick to install and can improve an EPC rating by a full band in some properties.

4. Draught Proofing (from £100)

Sealing gaps around doors, windows, floorboards, and loft hatches reduces heat loss and improves the fabric efficiency score on your EPC.

5. Upgrade Heating Controls

Adding a modern programmable thermostat, TRVs on radiators, and a timer improves the heating system score. Smart thermostats such as Nest or Hive are recognised in assessments.

6. Boiler Upgrade (from £2,000)

Replacing an old G-rated boiler with a modern A-rated condensing combi boiler is one of the most impactful improvements for properties with gas heating. The government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme may offer grant support.

7. Hot Water Cylinder Insulation (from £20)

If your property has a hot water cylinder, fitting a British Standard insulation jacket can improve the hot water score on your EPC at minimal cost.

8. Double Glazing

Upgrading from single to double glazing improves the fabric score. Triple glazing is recognised in assessments but offers diminishing returns compared to cost.

9. Solar PV Panels (from £5,000)

Solar panels generate on-site renewable electricity and can move a property from a D or E to a B or C rating in some cases. EPCRATE offers MCS-accredited solar PV installation across London.

10. Heat Pump Installation

Air source heat pumps are highly rated in EPC assessments and can significantly improve a property's rating. Available with government grant support through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (£7,500 grant).

Book a New EPC Assessment →
← Back to EPCAI
End of Tenancy

End of Tenancy Refurbishment — A Landlord's Complete Checklist

Published May 2026 · 7 min read · By EPCAI Team

The period between tenancies is your single best opportunity to protect your investment, meet all legal obligations, and attract higher-quality tenants faster. A well-executed end of tenancy refurbishment typically pays for itself through reduced void periods and better rental yields.

Why End of Tenancy Refurbishment Matters

When a tenancy ends, landlords face a window of opportunity that many underestimate. A property that is freshly decorated, fully compliant, and professionally cleaned commands a premium in the rental market — and lets faster. In London's competitive rental market, a well-presented property can reduce void periods from weeks to days.

Beyond presentation, the end of a tenancy is also the right time to carry out any outstanding compliance work — EICR testing, EPC renewal, gas safety checks — without disturbing an existing tenant.

The Complete End of Tenancy Checklist

1. Property Inspection & Inventory Check

Before any work begins, conduct a thorough check-out inspection against the original inventory. Document all damage beyond fair wear and tear with dated photographs. This protects your deposit claim and establishes a clear baseline for the refurbishment scope.

2. Deep Clean

A professional end of tenancy deep clean covers every surface — oven, extractor, bathroom grout, carpets, windows inside and out, and all appliances. This is non-negotiable for re-letting and often a tenancy agreement requirement. Budget £200–£500 depending on property size.

3. Redecoration

Fresh neutral paint throughout transforms the appeal of a property instantly. Even if walls look acceptable, repainting between tenancies removes scuffs, nail holes, and odours, and gives the property a clean-slate feel for viewings. Budget £500–£2,000 for a full repaint of a 2–3 bed property.

4. Flooring Assessment

Carpets typically need replacing every 5–8 years. Hard flooring may only need professional cleaning. Replacing tired carpets with hard-wearing LVT flooring is increasingly popular — it's easier to clean, more durable, and appeals to modern tenants.

5. Compliance Checks — Do These Every Time

  • EPC Certificate — valid for 10 years. If yours has expired, book a new assessment. Minimum E rating required to re-let. From £65 at EPCAI.
  • EICR Testing — required every 5 years for rental properties. Must be provided to new tenants before they move in. EPCRATE carries out EICR testing.
  • Gas Safety Certificate — required annually for any property with gas appliances.
  • Smoke & CO Alarms — check all alarms are functioning. Required on every floor.
  • Legionella Risk Assessment — recommended between tenancies, especially if the property has been empty for a period.

6. Repairs & Maintenance

Address all outstanding repairs — dripping taps, sticking doors, broken handles, cracked tiles, faulty switches. These small issues accumulate and create a negative first impression during viewings.

7. Energy Efficiency Improvements

Between tenancies is the ideal time to carry out energy improvements without disturbing a tenant. Loft insulation top-up, draught proofing, LED lighting upgrades, and smart thermostat installation are quick, low-cost measures that improve the EPC rating and reduce bills for your next tenant.

How EPCRATE Can Help

EPCAI and EPCRATE offer a complete end of tenancy service for London landlords — EPC certificates, EICR testing, energy improvement works, and full property refurbishment coordination. Call us on 020 3488 4142 or email info@epcrate.co.uk to arrange a combined package visit.

Book Your EPC Assessment →
← Back to EPCAI
2028 Rule Changes

New EPC Rules 2028 — What Landlords Must Do Right Now

Published April 2026 · 5 min read · By EPCAI Team

The government has signalled that from 2028, all new tenancies in England and Wales will require a minimum EPC rating of C. Around 60% of privately rented properties currently fall below this standard. Landlords who act now will avoid a last-minute scramble — and the costs that come with it.

What's Changing in 2028?

Under current MEES regulations, landlords must achieve a minimum E rating. The government has proposed raising this to a C rating for new tenancies from 2028, with all tenancies required to meet the standard by 2030. While the exact legislative timeline is subject to confirmation, the direction of travel is clear.

How Many Properties Are Affected?

Approximately 3.5 million privately rented homes currently have an EPC rating of D or below. Of these, around 1 million are rated E, F, or G. All of these will need to improve to reach a C before 2028 — and landlords who wait until 2027 will face higher contractor costs and longer lead times.

What Does Reaching a C Rating Require?

For a property currently rated D, reaching C may be achievable with loft insulation, LED lighting, and improved heating controls at relatively modest cost. For a solid-walled Victorian terrace rated E or F, more significant works — wall insulation, boiler replacement, or a heat pump — may be necessary. The most important first step is getting a current EPC assessment.

Grants Available Now

The Great British Insulation Scheme covers insulation works for D–G rated properties. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers £7,500 toward heat pump installation. These schemes are demand-limited — acting early means better access to funding before it runs out.

Your 2028 Action Plan

  • Step 1: Book an EPC assessment to establish your current rating and identify the gap to C
  • Step 2: Review the AI improvement report to understand costs and priority order
  • Step 3: Apply for available grants before demand peaks closer to the deadline
  • Step 4: Schedule improvement works between tenancies to minimise disruption
  • Step 5: Book a new EPC assessment once works are complete to confirm your rating
Book Your EPC Assessment →
← Back to EPCAI
Solar & Renewables

Does Solar PV Improve Your EPC Rating? The Real Impact Explained

Published March 2026 · 5 min read · By EPCAI Team

Solar PV panels can have a dramatic impact on an EPC rating — in some cases moving a property from a D all the way to a B. But the actual impact depends on system size, roof orientation, and the property's existing SAP score. Here's exactly how the RdSAP methodology scores solar PV.

How Solar PV Affects Your EPC Score

The RdSAP methodology calculates a property's energy costs and CO₂ emissions based on its construction, heating system, insulation, and any renewable technologies. Solar PV reduces the calculated electricity costs and CO₂ output, which directly improves the SAP score and therefore the EPC rating band. The improvement is calculated based on system size (kWp), roof orientation and pitch, and the property's overall electricity demand.

Typical EPC Improvements from Solar PV

A well-placed 3–4 kWp south-facing system on a typical 3-bed semi-detached house can improve the EPC rating by 8–15 SAP points — often enough to move from a D to a C, or from a C to a B. For properties with poor existing fabric efficiency, the improvement can be more dramatic.

Solar PV vs Other Improvements

Solar PV is one of the highest SAP-point improvements available, but also one of the more expensive. Loft insulation and cavity wall insulation typically offer better cost-per-SAP-point value. However, solar PV has the significant additional benefit of generating real electricity, reducing bills, and earning export payments through the Smart Export Guarantee.

Battery Storage and EPC Ratings

Battery storage systems are recognised in EPC assessments when paired with solar PV. Adding a battery improves self-consumption from around 30% to 60–70%, contributing a further 3–6 SAP points on top of the solar contribution.

Is Your Roof Suitable?

North-facing roofs, heavily shaded roofs, or roofs with limited available space may not generate enough to make the investment worthwhile. A survey by an MCS-accredited installer confirms suitability before any commitment. EPCRATE is an MCS-accredited solar PV installer operating across London. We can provide a free roof survey alongside your EPC assessment. Call 020 3488 4142 or email info@epcrate.co.uk.

Book Your EPC Assessment →