Tenants in England often worry about rising energy bills and whether their landlord has to improve a property's energy performance. This guide explains, in clear language, what landlords must provide, when they must supply Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), and how minimum energy efficiency standards affect your tenancy. You'll find practical steps to request improvements, how to check for exemptions, and what to do if a landlord does not comply. The information is written for renters and tenants without legal jargon and points to official sources and forms so you can act quickly and confidently. Keep copies of communications and receipts when you contact your landlord or local authority.
EPCs, landlord duties and minimum standards
Landlords must provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to prospective tenants at the earliest practical point, usually when a property is marketed or during viewings; keep the certificate available in the tenancy. The EPC shows the property's energy rating and recommended improvements. Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) set the legal floor for rental properties in England, and landlords should not let properties below the required band where rules apply. Tenants should note the relevant national legislation such as the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977 when discussing rights with landlords and advisors.
What landlords must do
- Provide a valid EPC when showing or advertising the property [1]
- Carry out necessary repairs and maintenance to basic heating and hot water systems so the home is habitable
- Make reasonable efforts to improve energy efficiency or apply for a formal exemption if upgrades are not possible [2]
- Keep records of work, quotes and receipts if costs or deposit deductions might affect you
- Give proper notice for inspections or repairs and respect your right to quiet enjoyment
When a landlord won’t comply
If your landlord refuses to provide an EPC, ignores repair requests tied to energy or habitability, or does not register a lawful exemption, start by writing a clear request and keep a dated copy. If that does not work, you can ask your local authority to inspect or enforce housing standards, or raise the matter with the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to seek a resolution or order. The Tribunal handles many tenancy disputes and can consider issues about repairs, deposits and related orders.
Tenant action checklist
- Write to your landlord setting out the issue and request the EPC or repairs in writing
- Give a reasonable deadline for a response, for example within 14 days
- Contact your local authority housing or environmental health if the landlord does not act
- Consider an application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if informal steps fail [3]
FAQ
- Do landlords have to provide an EPC to tenants?
- Yes. Landlords must provide a valid EPC to prospective tenants and usually to new tenants at or before the start of a tenancy; if you cannot obtain it, ask the landlord in writing and keep a record. [1]
- What if the property has a low EPC rating?
- Minimum efficiency standards may prevent letting sub-standard properties; landlords should improve the property or apply for a formal exemption if upgrades are impractical or disproportionate. You can ask for written evidence of work or an exemption. [2]
- Where can I take a dispute about energy or repairs?
- You can contact your local authority and, if needed, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a formal decision. Keep all records to support your case. [3]
How-To
- Write a clear request to your landlord asking for the EPC or specific repairs, include dates and any safety concerns.
- Set a reasonable deadline for a response, for example within 14 calendar days.
- If there is no satisfactory reply, contact your local authority housing or environmental health team for advice and enforcement.
- If enforcement and negotiation fail, prepare your documents and apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision.
Help and Support / Resources
- GOV.UK: Energy efficiency and EPCs
- GOV.UK: Minimum energy efficiency standards and exemptions
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
