Landlords across the UK are bracing for what experts are calling the most significant change to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments in over a decade, as a major update to the rating system comes into force on 15 June.
The overhaul, known as ‘RdSAP 10’, introduces a more rigorous and detailed assessment process aimed at improving the accuracy and reliability of EPCs — certificates which are vital for renting and selling properties. According to Propertymark, the professional body for the property sector, the changes mark “the most significant” update to the system in more than 10 years.
While the updated methodology is being welcomed for its potential to provide clearer insights into a property’s energy efficiency, the increased scrutiny comes at a cost. Propertymark members have already reported a rise in assessment fees, with more time and data required during site visits by energy assessors.
“Propertymark welcomes improvements that make EPCs more robust and meaningful,” the organisation said in a statement. “However, we continue to push for clear guidance and support for landlords and agents to navigate upcoming changes, realistic implementation timelines that allow the sector to prepare, and funding to help with the cost of improvements, particularly for small landlords.”
The push for support ties into broader calls for EPC reform, improved access to retrofit funding, and better communication from government to landlords and property professionals.
Stuart Fairlie, Managing Director of Elmhurst Energy — a leading accreditation and training provider in the energy assessment sector — praised the changes as a long-overdue improvement.
“The changes bring long-overdue improvements to the assessment process,” said Fairlie. “There is more detailed data collection, and this means EPCs are more accurate and reliable. It will give landlords and agents a much clearer picture of what’s needed to meet proposed energy efficiency targets.”
Fairlie acknowledged that the enhanced methodology will require assessors to spend more time at each property, which could increase the cost of obtaining an EPC. “But in return,” he added, “building owners will receive a more valuable product.”
As the deadline approaches, landlords are being urged to prepare for the new requirements, seek guidance where needed, and factor in potential additional costs when planning property upgrades or transactions.