Note: This is a general guide for UK commercial property owners and professionals. Non-domestic EPC regulations, registers and processes differ across England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Always check the current position on GOV.UK and the relevant national register before acting on any specific matter.
The standard
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards make it unlawful in England and Wales to grant a new tenancy of non-domestic property rated F or G, and since 1 April 2023 the restriction extends to continuing to let such property, unless a valid exemption is registered.
Direction of travel
Government has consulted on raising the non-domestic minimum over the coming years. Owners planning capital programmes generally model against a future band C or B requirement rather than the current E, because the works and their timing are the same either way.
Where to start
A current, accurate EPC across the portfolio is the prerequisite. Many sub-E ratings turn out to be modelling artefacts from missing evidence rather than genuinely poor buildings — re-assessment with proper documentation is often the cheapest first move.
Next steps
If you'd like specific advice about a property or portfolio, request a quote and our in-house assessors will come back to you.