Tenants and renters in Wales need clear, practical information about Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and what to expect from landlords. This page explains what EPC ratings mean, how the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard affects privately rented homes in Wales, and what to do if a landlord does not provide an EPC or refuses reasonable improvements. You will find step‑by‑step actions for checking an EPC, documenting problems, contacting your landlord, and where to escalate concerns to regulators or the First‑tier Tribunal. The guidance uses simple language and links to official forms and services so you can act with confidence if your rented home falls below legal standards.
What landlords must do about EPCs in Wales
Landlords of privately rented properties must follow the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) rules that apply in England and Wales. The MEES rules set a minimum EPC rating for properties in the private rented sector and provide processes for improvement, exemptions and enforcement. For tenants this means you can ask for an EPC, check the rating, and ask for evidence if your landlord claims an exemption.[2] You can view an individual property’s EPC details using the official EPC search service.[1]
- Record the property’s current EPC and give a copy or a link to the tenant at the start of the tenancy.
- Within legal timescales, landlords should arrange reasonable energy efficiency improvements when required by MEES.
- Submit evidence of an exemption on the official PRS Exemptions Register when a lawful exemption applies.
- Document and keep records of quotes, invoices and communications about any improvement work or repairs.
- Serve appropriate notices and give reasonable advance notice before arranging contractor access for improvement works.
Exemptions and the PRS Exemptions Register
Some properties cannot reach the required EPC rating without disproportionate cost or if there are legal, listed‑building or tenant‑consent constraints. In those cases landlords should register a legal exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register; tenants can ask to see the registration details to verify the claim.[3]
Official forms and when a tenant might use them
- Submit a PRS Exemptions Register entry: used by landlords to record a lawful exemption; a tenant might ask the landlord to show the exemption and check the register for confirmation.[3]
- Check the EPC via the official "Find an energy certificate" service: tenants can search the property address to see the EPC rating and recommendation report before or during a tenancy.[1]
- Use the First‑tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) application forms: if a landlord refuses reasonable action and you cannot resolve the issue, a tenant can apply using the tribunal collection of forms and guidance.[4]
FAQ
- What EPC rating must a rented home in Wales have?
- Private rented homes are subject to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard which generally requires a minimum EPC rating; check the current MEES guidance for the exact threshold and exemptions.[2]
- What can I do if my landlord won’t provide an EPC or improve the property?
- First, request a copy of the EPC in writing and keep a record. If the landlord refuses, check whether an exemption is registered and consider contacting enforcement authorities or applying to the First‑tier Tribunal for resolution.[3][4]
- How do I check an EPC for my rented property?
- Use the official Find an energy certificate service to view the current EPC and recommendations, and save a copy for your records before asking the landlord to act.
How-To
- Collect evidence: download the property EPC, take photos of problem areas, and save messages and repair requests.
- Contact the landlord in writing: explain the issue, state what you want (EPC copy or specific repairs), and give a reasonable deadline.
- Submit a formal request or check the PRS Exemptions Register: ask the landlord to register any claimed exemption and provide proof.
- Apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if informal steps fail: use the official tribunal forms and include your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants can request and view EPCs using the official government service.
- Landlords must follow MEES or register a valid exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register.
- If issues remain unresolved, tenants may apply to the First‑tier Tribunal for a remedy.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Rent Smart Wales for landlord licensing and compliance
- Welsh Government housing and renting guidance
- First‑tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) information and forms
