EPC Deadline Pushed Back: What Landlords Need to Know in 2026

The government has officially pushed back key Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) deadlines a decision that brings both relief and renewed planning pressure for landlords across England and Wales. After months of uncertainty, the revised timelines form part of the wider Warm Homes Plan and reflect the government’s shift toward a more “pragmatic and workable” approach to improving energy efficiency in the private rented sector.

So, What’s Actually Changed?

1. The 2028 EPC ‘C’ Deadline for New Tenancies Has Been Axed

Originally, landlords were expected to upgrade properties to EPC grade C for new tenancies by 2028. That requirement has now been removed, ending a major source of anxiety for landlords managing larger or older portfolios.

2. A New Single Deadline: 1 October 2030

All rented homes whether newly let or with long‑standing tenants must reach EPC band C by 1 October 2030. This represents a more streamlined approach, giving the sector a unified target and four additional years compared to the scrapped 2028 new‑tenancy deadline.

3. Spending Cap Reduced to £10,000

The maximum spend required per property has been reduced from £15,000 to £10,000.This is a big shift and one that should help avoid the disproportionate financial pressures many landlords feared.

4. EPC Validity Extended From 5 to 10 Years

This means any EPC of C or higher issued today will keep a landlord compliant for a decade. Those who upgrade early can lock in their compliance window and potentially avoid the capacity crunch expected closer to 2030.

5. Funding Support on the Way

Low‑interest loan schemes and other support mechanisms are expected to roll out to help landlords meet the new requirements. While the details are still emerging, this signals a more collaborative government stance than in previous years.

Money Already Spent Counts Toward the £10,000 Cap

A crucial clarification in the updated EPC policy is that any qualifying energy‑efficiency improvements made from October 2025 onward will count toward the new £10,000 spending cap.

This means landlords who have already invested in insulation, glazing upgrades, heating improvements, or other eligible works won’t start from zero their previous spending is recognised and deducted from the total required investment. This prevents duplication, rewards early action, and gives landlords clearer visibility of what remains to be done before the 2030 deadline. This is a welcome change as it allows our Landlords to start making improvements the next time they renovate a property

Why the Deadline Was Pushed Back

Landlords and trade bodies have long argued that the original timelines were unrealistic. A shortage of qualified installers, rising retrofit costs, and concerns around housing supply all played a role in prompting government to rethink the regulations.

Between labour market constraints and the sheer scale of upgrades needed (over 2.5 million PRS properties), the sector was sleepwalking into a bottleneck. Pushing back the date gives breathing space for both landlords and the retrofit workforce.

What This Means for Landlords Now

1. Use the Time Wisely

2030 may feel far away, but work like insulation, glazing, and heating upgrades often requires planning, budgeting, and scheduling tradespeople well in advance.

2. Lock In an EPC Early

Because EPCs now last 10 years, an early “C” rating future‑proofs you up to 2036 or beyond. If you’re already close to the threshold, this could be a strategic move.

3. Review Your Portfolio for High‑Impact Fixes

The government continues to emphasise a “fabric first” approach — insulation, windows, and thermal efficiency are still the most cost‑effective improvements.

4. Budget for Upgrades (But With More Certainty)

A £10,000 spending cap is still a significant outlay, but far more manageable than £15,000. The extended timeframe also allows you to stagger works across tax years if needed.

A Note on Political Uncertainty

While the updated EPC timeline and spending rules provide welcome clarity, it’s important to recognise that policy could still change after the next General Election, which must be held by 15 August 2029.

If a new government takes a radically different stance on environmental commitments including the possibility of scaling back or even cancelling elements of the UK’s net‑zero strategy the EPC framework may be revised again.

For now, the 2030 EPC C requirement remains the legal trajectory, but landlords should stay alert to political developments over the coming years.

The Bottom Line

The government’s decision to push back the EPC deadline is a win for common sense. It protects tenants with a long‑term route to warmer, more efficient homes while giving landlords a realistic timeframe and clearer cost expectations.`

For landlords, the message is clear: the pressure is eased, but the responsibility remains. Use these extra years to plan improvements, take advantage of upcoming financial support, and position your properties strongly for a more energy‑efficient future.