The government has chosen to delay the reforms to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings to the second half of 2027 after consulting with industry insiders.
Previously there were plans to change EPCs by October 2026, but the government decided this timeline was too ambitious.
The current single letter score will be replaced by four metrics: fabric performance, heating system, smart readiness, and energy cost.
Meanwhile private rentals will be expected to have a minimum C rating by 2030.
Russell Smith, director, energy at Cotality, which owns Ecofurb, a retrofit advice service, said: There are still important decisions to be made about how information will be presented to homeowners and how landlords will be expected to meet future Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.
“Getting these details right matters. The industry will also need sufficient time to update software, train professionals, and prepare the supply chain before the new framework launches.
“For most homeowners, this delay is unlikely to cause any major uncertainty. The current EPC system is widely understood, and the revised launch date will allow the government time to ensure the new ratings are as simple and practical as the current framework.
“For landlords, the announcement provides useful clarity for the coming year. EPCs lodged today remain valid for 10 years, so there is a clear opportunity to act now under the existing system. Upgrading properties to EPC Band C before the new framework is introduced can secure compliance for the long term, while also reducing tenants’ energy bills.”
Switching gas boilers to heat pumps often isn’t reflected by EPC ratings, due to their higher electricity costs compared to gas.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said that “following engagement with industry on the delivery timeline” it had “decided to move the launch of the reforms to the second half of 2027”.
