EPC Rules for HMOs and Shared Rentals in England

Tenants in shared houses and HMOs need to know how energy performance requirements affect their safety, bills and legal rights in England. This guide explains when a landlord must provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), the minimum energy efficiency standards that apply to private rented properties, and what steps renters can take if a property is below the required rating. It covers practical examples for shared rentals and lodgers, how to check an EPC, who enforces the rules, and which official forms and tribunals you may use to resolve disputes. Written for non-experts, the information focuses on what tenants should expect, how to raise concerns with authorities, and how to gather evidence to support a complaint.

Understanding EPCs and MEES

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) show a property's energy rating and estimated running costs; landlords must provide a copy when a property is let or sold in England ^[1]. The minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) requires privately rented properties to meet an EPC rating of at least E for new tenancies and, in most cases, for existing ones; local authorities enforce this standard ^[2].

What landlords must do

Landlords of HMOs and shared rentals must commission a valid EPC before letting and must not grant a new tenancy to a property with an F or G rating unless a valid exemption applies. Tenants can ask to see the EPC and should keep a copy of it for their records.

• Request a copy of the EPC from your landlord within a reasonable time.
• Ask the landlord to carry out repairs or improvements to raise the rating where feasible.
• Keep records of communications, photos and receipts as evidence of requests.
• File a complaint with the local authority or seek tribunal action if the landlord refuses to act.

If your HMO or shared rental is below the required rating

If your HMO rates F or G, raise the issue in writing with the landlord and ask for a timescale for improvements. If the landlord does not act, you can contact the local authority's housing enforcement team or consider tribunal options through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) ^[3].

Official forms and how tenants use them

• Form N5 (Claim form for possession): used by landlords to start possession proceedings; tenants may see it if a notice is challenged. Example: if you receive a possession claim after complaining about MEES, check the N5 and seek advice ^[4].
• First-tier Tribunal application: tenants apply to the Property Chamber for rent repayment orders or other remedies. Example: apply to request an order to force improvements or recover payments (see the tribunal guidance) ^[3].

How to enforce your rights

Below is a clear step-by-step process you can follow to raise concerns about EPC or MEES compliance in a shared property.

FAQ

Do HMOs need an EPC?

Yes. Landlords must have a valid EPC and provide a copy to tenants when a property is let; HMOs and shared rentals are covered by the same EPC rules in England.

What rating is legally required?

The minimum legal requirement for most private rented properties is an EPC rating of E; properties rated F or G may be subject to restrictions unless an exemption applies.

Who enforces EPC and MEES rules?

Local housing authorities enforce MEES and can take action; some disputes or compensation claims can be decided by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

How-To

1. Check the current EPC for the property and note the rating.
2. Ask the landlord in writing to provide the EPC or make improvements and set a reasonable deadline, for example within 28 days.
3. Keep dated records of all messages, photos and receipts as evidence.
4. Contact your local authority's housing enforcement team and explain the issue with the evidence you have gathered.
5. If the landlord still refuses to act, consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and review any Form N5 if legal action is started against you.

Help and Support / Resources

• Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) - GOV.UK
• Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) - GOV.UK
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK

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1. [1] Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) - GOV.UK
2. [2] Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) - GOV.UK
3. [3] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
4. [4] Form N5 - Claim form for possession of property - GOV.UK