Imagine a prospective tenant shortlisting three flats at a similar rent. One has an EPC rating of C, another D and the third E. That single letter will not make the decision for them, but it may help decide which property gets a viewing.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is more than a compliance document tucked away in a landlord’s records. It gives renters a quick way to compare a property’s energy efficiency, see estimated running costs and check the rating before they enquire.
Here’s what an EPC certificate for landlords actually contains, section by section, and why tenants pay attention to it.
1. The energy rating graph: a quick comparison
The most visible feature is the A–G energy-efficiency scale. A is the most efficient band; G is the least efficient. The certificate shows the property’s current rating and, typically, a potential rating that could be reached if recommended improvements are made.
For a tenant scanning several listings, this is the easy-to-spot comparison. A C rating may give a more reassuring first impression than an E, particularly to someone thinking about keeping household bills manageable.
The rating is a standardised measure of the property’s energy performance. It is not a promise that a tenant’s bills will fall within a particular range, nor does it measure how carefully the previous occupier used the heating.
2. Property details: what building the certificate describes
An EPC identifies the property it relates to. The document includes the address and property details, as well as the total floor area. It also displays a certificate reference number and information about when the assessment was issued and when the certificate expires.
These details matter when tenants or agents are reviewing documents for a specific flat or house. Check that the address matches the rental property being advertised; a certificate for a different unit in the same building is not a helpful substitute.
The floor area also helps provide context for the rating. A small flat and a large house are different propositions, so the certificate is best read as one useful piece of information rather than as a complete description of the home.
3. Estimated running costs: a guide, not a bill forecast
The certificate includes estimated energy running costs, generally covering areas such as heating, hot water and lighting. It may also show the typical savings associated with the recommendations.
These figures are based on standard occupancy assumptions. In other words, the estimate uses a consistent model rather than the habits, household size and preferences of the next tenant. One person who is out all day may use energy differently from a family who are home more often. Heating preferences, weather, energy tariffs and day-to-day routines also affect real bills.
So, treat the estimate as a comparison aid, not a guarantee. It can help renters compare properties on a like-for-like basis, but it cannot tell them exactly what they will pay.
For landlords and agents, it is worth being clear about that distinction. The EPC offers a useful indication of the building’s modelled performance; it does not predict an individual household’s energy use.
4. Recommendations: possible improvements and their potential
The recommendations report lists measures that could improve the property’s energy performance. Depending on the home, these may relate to insulation, heating or glazing. The report gives typical costs and savings for suggested measures and indicates the potential rating after improvements.
For a prospective tenant, this section can add context to the current rating. It shows that there may be options for improving performance, but it should not be read as confirmation that the improvements have already been completed.
For a landlord, the recommendations can serve as a useful starting point when considering future upgrades. Focus on the measures that make sense for the property, and check the home’s current condition before relying on an older report as an improvement plan.
5. Certificate and expiry information: check it is current
An EPC is generally valid for up to 10 years, unless a newer certificate replaces it. The issue and expiry information helps you check whether the document is still current.
If you are preparing a property for rent, ensure you have a valid EPC where one is required. Keep the certificate details to hand and make sure the document relates to the right property. A tenant should not have to play detective to work out whether the listing and certificate match.
Why tenants look at the EPC before they rent
Running costs matter alongside rent
Rent is only one part of a household’s monthly outgoings. A tenant comparing similar homes may use the EPC rating and estimated costs as an early indication of energy performance.
That does not mean every renter will choose the property with the highest rating. Location, layout and condition matter too. But an accessible, current EPC gives tenants information they can use before they decide whether to enquire.
The minimum rating matters
In England, most privately rented properties that are required to have an EPC must meet a minimum rating of E, unless a valid exemption applies. A covered property rated F or G generally needs to be improved to at least E, or have an applicable exemption registered, before it can be let.
The rules do not apply in exactly the same way to every property or tenancy, so check the relevant requirements for your circumstances. The key point for landlords is simple: do not leave the rating check until a tenancy is about to begin.
The listing must show the rating
When advertising a rental property, the EPC rating must be included in the listing. Make sure the rating shown matches the property’s valid certificate. Clear, accurate information helps prospective tenants compare homes and gives agents a sound basis for answering questions.
What the running-cost estimate does, and doesn’t, tell you
An EPC is an assessment of the property, not a record of a tenant’s actual energy bills. Its standard assumptions make it easier to compare one home with another, but they cannot account for every household’s lifestyle.
A tenant who prefers a warmer home may use more heating than the estimate suggests. A household with different occupancy patterns may use less. Appliances, energy tariffs and weather also influence the final bill.
When you review the estimate, focus on the broad comparison rather than treating it as a personal forecast. For landlords, avoid presenting the EPC estimate as a guaranteed saving or a promise about future bills. That small distinction keeps expectations realistic.
How the EPC can help landlords market a property
A stronger rating can support a more positive first impression, particularly when renters are weighing up energy performance alongside location and monthly rent. A clear EPC also shows that you have considered the information tenants need when assessing the property.
The recommendations report can help you identify possible improvements over time. It is not a substitute for checking the property’s actual condition, but it gives you a practical place to start when planning upgrades.
If you need an EPC for a rental property, view Evestaff’s Energy Performance Certificate service. Arrange the certificate early enough to ensure the rating is ready for your listing.
What happens during an EPC assessment?
An accredited energy assessor visits the property and gathers information relevant to its energy performance, including features such as the building fabric, heating and fixed lighting. The assessment is used to produce the certificate and its rating.
The visit is focused on the property, not on measuring a tenant’s energy use. Once the certificate is issued, check the address and key details so you can use the right document when marketing the home.
EPC support for landlords, agents and property managers in London and Kent
Evestaff Property Inventory Clerks has served landlords, letting agents and property managers in London and Kent since 2012. Our accredited energy assessors use modern technology and bring practical experience to each booking, helping you arrange EPCs alongside inventories and inspections.
Evestaff Property Inventory Clerks are accredited members of ECMK. That accreditation supports our commitment to professional, precise documentation, because the details on a property certificate matter.
You can find out more about booking an EPC or, if you are arranging a first booking, ask about the 10% discount for new customers.
And if a fellow landlord or property professional could use a reliable service, feel free to pass along our Refer a Friend offer. A good recommendation is always welcome; unlike a draughty hallway, it costs nothing to share.
The takeaway
An EPC tells tenants what rating a property has, gives a standardised estimate of energy running costs and outlines possible improvements. It also provides the certificate details landlords need to check before advertising.
Keep the certificate current, make sure the advertised rating is accurate and explain estimates as estimates, not guaranteed bills. A little clarity helps tenants compare homes and helps you present your rental property with confidence.
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