Energy Performance Certificates: Renters in Wales

Renters in Wales often have questions about Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs): what they show, whether a landlord must provide one, and how an EPC affects energy costs and comfort. This guide explains your rights and practical steps you can take if an EPC is missing, outdated, or shows poor performance. It covers when landlords must commission an EPC, how to request one, which official forms and enforcement bodies apply in Wales, and what to do if you need to raise concerns about energy efficiency. Where action is needed, the guide gives example letters, timelines, and links to official government and tribunal sources so you can move forward with confidence.

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a home is and gives recommendations to improve performance. Landlords must provide an EPC when they market a property for rent or when a new tenancy begins in most cases. For official guidance on EPCs and how they work see the government guidance.^[1]

When must a landlord provide an EPC?

Landlords must have a valid EPC available when a property is offered for rent. If you move in, the landlord should be able to supply a copy. Minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) also affect lettings and are enforced by authorities; these sit alongside wider housing law such as the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977 which shape tenancy types and dispute routes in Wales.

Forms and official documents

• EPC certificate (official digital certificate produced by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor) — no public form number; request a copy from your landlord and check the issue date.
• Written request to landlord (sample letter) — there is no fixed government letter form, but send a dated written request and keep a copy; ask for the EPC within a clear deadline such as within 14 days.
• Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – use the tribunal application process and forms if you need a formal decision about obligations or compliance; see tribunal guidance and forms.^[2]

If you do not have an EPC: step-by-step actions

• Send a dated written request to your landlord asking for a copy of the EPC and set a reasonable deadline (for example, within 14 days).
• Keep evidence: save emails, take screenshots of listings, photograph any paper documents and note dates and times of conversations.
• Contact your local authority or trading standards if the landlord refuses; they can advise on enforcement routes for EPC rules.
• Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if other routes fail and you need a formal remedy; the tribunal handles many tenancy disputes in Wales and can consider related issues.

FAQ

Can my landlord refuse to show the EPC?

No. Landlords must make a valid EPC available when a property is let or marketed. If a landlord refuses, ask in writing, keep records, and consider contacting local enforcement or the tribunal for help.^[1]

How long is an EPC valid for?

An EPC is normally valid for 10 years. If the EPC is older than 10 years, it should be updated by the landlord before marketing or letting the property.

Can I withhold rent if there is no EPC?

No. Withholding rent is risky and can lead to eviction proceedings. Instead, document requests, seek advice from official bodies, and use tribunal routes if needed.^[2]

How-To

1. Check existing paperwork and ask the landlord for the EPC in writing, clearly stating the address and tenancy start date.
2. Set a reasonable deadline in your request (for example, within 14 days) and say you will keep a copy of the request as evidence.
3. Keep every response and document: emails, receipts, photos and dates of phone calls.
4. If the landlord does not comply, contact local authority enforcement or trading standards; if that does not resolve the matter, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for an EPC in writing and keep dated copies of your request.
• The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) is a formal route for tenancy disputes in Wales.
• EPCs normally last 10 years; request an updated certificate if the current one is expired.

Help and Support / Resources

• Rent Smart Wales - official landlord and property registration and advice
• GOV.UK - Energy Performance Certificates guidance
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - how to apply and forms

1. [1] GOV.UK - Energy Performance Certificates
2. [2] GOV.UK - First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
3. [3] Legislation.gov.uk - Housing Act 1988