Tenants and renters in Wales have rights around energy performance information for their homes. This guide explains what an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is, what landlords must provide, and when you can challenge missing or inaccurate certificates. It covers the minimum energy efficiency rules that affect private rented properties, what forms or registers may be used if a landlord cannot reach the required rating, and practical steps for tenants to request an EPC, record evidence, and escalate concerns if needed. The language is plain and focused on tenant actions, deadlines, and protections in Wales so you can understand what to ask your landlord and how to use official channels if issues arise.
What an EPC is and why it matters
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) describes a property’s energy efficiency and gives a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Landlords must make a valid EPC available to prospective tenants at or before the start of a tenancy and give a copy to new tenants. EPCs remain valid for 10 years and should accurately reflect the property; if a certificate looks out of date or incorrect, tenants can raise concerns with the landlord or the accredited assessor.[2]
Landlord duties in Wales
Providing an EPC to tenants
Landlords must provide a copy of the EPC to any prospective tenant when marketing the property and to new tenants when they move in. If you did not receive a copy, ask the landlord in writing for one and keep a dated record of that request. If the landlord refuses or delays, you can report this to the local authority for checking against rules about information for tenants.[2]
- Within 7 days, send a written request to your landlord asking for the EPC and keep the sent copy as proof.
- Record the certificate and take a dated photo or screenshot of the document for your records.
- If the landlord claims the property is exempt from minimum standards, ask to see the exemption evidence or registration.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
Under the rules for England and Wales, private rented properties generally must meet a minimum EPC rating of E before they can be let, unless a valid exemption applies. There are legal penalties for landlords who let properties in breach of the standard, and landlords must use the official exemptions process if they cannot achieve the rating. Tenants should be aware of these protections and where to check whether a property is lawfully exempt.[1]
FAQ
- Do I have the right to see the EPC before I move in?
- Yes. A landlord must provide an EPC to prospective tenants when a property is marketed and to new tenants when they move in.
- What if my landlord does not provide an EPC?
- Ask in writing for a copy and keep evidence of the request; if you do not get a response, you can report the issue to your local authority or seek help from the official tenancy tribunal process.
- Can a landlord let a property with a rating below E?
- Only if a legal exemption applies and it has been properly recorded. If you suspect unlawful lets, you can ask the landlord for exemption evidence and raise the concern with official bodies.
How-To
- Ask the landlord in writing for the EPC and request a copy to be provided before you sign the tenancy.
- Check the certificate rating and record a photo or scan of the EPC for your files.
- If the rating is below E, ask the landlord to show exemption evidence or to provide a plan and timeline for improvements.
- If the landlord will not cooperate, report the matter to your local authority or consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal for a remedy.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants should always request and keep a copy of the EPC.
- Act promptly and keep dated records of communications and documents.
- Use official exemption registers and local authority routes if standards are not met.
Help and Support / Resources
- GOV.UK: Energy Performance Certificate guidance
- GOV.UK: PRS exemptions register (apply for an exemption)
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - residential property information
