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How Long Does an EPC Last? UK EPC Rules for Landlords
How long an EPC lasts, when you need a new one, the minimum EPC band for rented properties, and how the 2028 EPC C rule will affect UK landlords.
The Landvale Team·Updated 1 July 2026·7 min read
Key takeaways
EPCs last 10 years from the date of issue.
The current minimum for rented properties is EPC band E under MEES.
From 2028, new tenancies will require band C — 2030 for all tenancies.
You need a valid EPC before marketing a property.
Landvale tracks EPC expiries and MEES risk across your portfolio.
How long is an EPC valid?
An EPC is legally valid for ten years from the date it was issued. If the property is sold or re-let during that period, the same EPC applies — you do not need a new one unless it has expired.
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES)
Since April 2020, no landlord can let a property with an EPC below band E. Enforcement is by local authorities and the penalty is up to £5,000 per breach.
The 2028 EPC C rule
The government's proposed timetable requires:
•EPC band C for new tenancies from 2028.
•EPC band C for all existing tenancies from 2030.
•Penalties rising to £30,000 per property.
If your portfolio has properties in bands D–G today, start scheduling upgrades now — installer capacity for 2027–28 is already tightening.
Portfolio-wide EPC tracking
Landvale reads every EPC on upload, flags any property below your target band, forecasts expiry across the next 10 years and lets you compare upgrade costs to projected fines.
Pillar guide
The Complete UK Landlord Compliance Guide
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Frequently asked questions
When the existing one is more than ten years old, or after material works that would change the rating.
