Tenant Rights in London
- September 29, 2025
- Loyton Remekie
- 12:41 pm
Your Legal Entitlement to an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Whether you’re renting a studio flat in Shoreditch or a family home in Richmond, tenants in London have a legal right to receive an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before moving into a property.
At Ripple Survey Solutions Ltd, we support both tenants and landlords across Greater London in staying compliant and energy aware.
This guide outlines everything London renters need to know about EPCs in 2025.
What Is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legally required document that assesses the energy efficiency of a property. It rates homes on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and includes:
- The property’s current energy rating
- Estimated energy costs for heating, lighting, and hot water
- Recommendations for improving energy efficiency
EPCs are valid for 10 years and must be issued by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA).
An EPC confirm the following about a property:
The energy efficiency rating of the property (this relate to how thermal efficient the property is and what the likely cost of heating the property would be)’ depending on lifestyle and occupancy.
The likely environmental impact rating of the property (what the likely amount of carbon dioxide released into the environment as a result of this property)
EPC rating are primarily base on factors like the age of the property, it’s construction material heating, insulation.
Legal Requirements for Landlords in London (2025)
Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012 and the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES):
- Landlords must provide a valid EPC before a tenancy begins
- Minimum legal rating is Band E — properties rated F or G cannot be legally let unless registered for exemption
- Failure to comply may result in fines of up to £5,000 and invalidation of Section 21 eviction notices
This applies to all rented homes in England and Wales, including London boroughs like Camden, Hackney, Islington, Westminster, and beyond.
The 2018 Minimum Level of Energy Efficiency’ Standard, requires landlord in England and Wales to provide a valid Energy Performance Certificate for all domestic rental properties. This certificate must have an EPC rating below ‘E’ unless the property is qualified for an exemption
Landlord in England and Wales who fail to provide a valid EPC as of from October 2015 to an existing of new tenant will not be able to serve a valid Section 21 notice
Legal obligation
- Must be provided free of charge
- EPC must be valid (within 10 years)
- EPC is not required for a lodger
- Sub-leaseholders are responsible to ensure the EPC for the property is valid
Exceptions & Exemptions
Some properties may qualify for exemption, including:
- Listed buildings
- Properties where upgrades are cost-prohibitive
- Units with refused consent for improvements
Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and renewed every 5 years.
When Should Tenants Receive an EPC?
Tenants must be given a valid EPC:
- Before signing the tenancy agreement
- During or before the first property viewing
- Before moving into the property
If no EPC is provided, tenants may face legal uncertainty, and landlords risk enforcement action.
A landlord who fails to provide an EPC risks fines and may not be able to legally evict tenants using a Section 21 notice.
Why EPCs Matter to Tenants
With London’s high rental costs, energy efficiency directly impacts affordability and sustainability. An EPC helps tenants:
- Understand energy bills: for example, a lower ratings (E–G) often mean higher heating costs
- Make greener choices: Properties rated A–C are more environmentally friendly
- Know your rights: Properties rated F or G are illegal to let unless exempt
How to Check a Property’s EPC
Tenants can independently verify is a property a current and valid EPC certificate, using the official EPC Register at https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate Simply enter the property’s address to view:
- Current energy rating
- Certificate expiry date
- Recommended upgrades
What to Do If You’re Not Given an EPC
If your landlord or letting agent fails to provide an EPC:
- Request it in writing
Politely remind them of their legal obligation.
- Report non-compliance
Contact your local council’s Trading Standards team.
- Seek advice
Reach out to organisations like Shelter, Citizens Advice, or a local tenants’ rights group.
Stay Informed & Protected
For Tenants
Before signing any tenancy agreement in London, ensure your landlord has supplied a valid EPC.
For Landlords & Agents
Letting a property in London? EPCs are not optional—they are a legal requirement. Stay compliant to avoid fines and protect your business.
Need an EPC Survey in London?
Ripple Survey Solutions Ltd provides fast, certified EPC assessments across all London boroughs.
📞 Call us on +44 7309 471249
📧 Email: bookings@ripplesurvey.com
🌐 Visit: www.ripplesurvey.com
