Commercial EPC requirements for landlords

GOV.UK says an EPC is required when a commercial premises is sold or rented out, subject to exemptions. You must make the certificate available to prospective buyers or tenants, and a commercial EPC is generally valid for 10 years unless a newer one is produced. Check the current rules for the property and its location before marketing.



An accredited non-domestic energy assessor can confirm whether a new assessment is needed and carry one out.

In England and Wales, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) rules generally prevent landlords from granting a new tenancy or continuing to let a covered non-domestic property with an EPC rating below E, unless a valid exemption applies. The rules have exceptions, and any exemption must be registered where required.



Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own requirements. A UK-wide landlord should check the rules for each property rather than assume one set of requirements applies everywhere.

Check the EPC rating and expiry date early. If improvements may be needed, understand which measures are practical, whether consent is required and how the work could affect the property or a future occupier.



Do not treat the EPC recommendations as a complete property improvement plan. The right work depends on the building, its use and the applicable rules. If the property has a low rating, check whether an exemption is available and what evidence is required before relying on it.

North360 can discuss a property’s letting plans and the practical issues to address before it goes to market. For advice on EPC compliance, consult the current government guidance or a qualified energy assessor.

GOV.UK: Energy Performance Certificates for business premises

GOV.UK: Minimum energy-efficiency standard for non-domestic private rented property