EPC 2030 series
New rules for rented homes, a new way of calculating EPCs and new standards for new homes. Every point below shows whether it is final, decided or still proposed.
The government has decided private rented homes must reach an EPC C equivalent by 1 October 2030, with a £10,000 cost cap. Regulations are still to be laid.
HEM is the new calculation method set to replace SAP and RdSAP. New HEM-based EPCs with several metrics are proposed; the England and Wales launch date is to be confirmed.
Yes. The government has kept the 10-year validity period.
| Topic | Today (SAP) | Coming (HEM) |
|---|---|---|
| Calculation engine | SAP and RdSAP | Home Energy Model (HEM), with an on-site inspection mode for existing homes (proposed) |
| Headline rating | One A to G band based mainly on running cost | Several metrics proposed: fabric performance, heating system, smart readiness and energy cost |
| Carbon and demand | Shown as secondary figures | Carbon and energy-demand metrics proposed as secondary measures |
| Validity | 10 years | Stays at 10 years |
| What it rewards | Cheaper running costs on paper | Better fabric, cleaner heating and readiness for smart, flexible energy |
No new legal minimum for owner-occupied homes. Your next EPC will look different once HEM-based certificates launch.
EPC C equivalent required for all tenancies by 1 October 2030. Fabric comes first, then a choice of heating or smart-readiness route. Cost cap £10,000.
A first minimum energy standard for social rent is being introduced through the reformed Decent Homes Standard, tied to the new metrics.
Councils enforce rental standards and may also be landlords. New-build rules under the Future Homes Standard apply from 24 March 2027.
Future Homes Standard in force from 24 March 2027: low-carbon heating and fabric-first design for new homes. SAP 10.3 remains the method until HEM is ready.
Rented commercial buildings over 1,000m² must reach EPC B by 2031 where cost-effective. Smaller buildings stay at EPC E.
Rented homes should become warmer and cheaper to run as landlords upgrade by 2030. Social tenants gain a first statutory energy standard.
Private rented homes must be at least EPC E to let.
GOV.UK: improving the energy performance of privately rented homes (response, 21 Jan 2026)Government confirms private rented homes must reach EPC C equivalent by 1 October 2030, with a £10,000 cost cap and 10-year exemptions.
GOV.UK: improving the energy performance of privately rented homes (response, 21 Jan 2026)Consultation on new EPC metrics and using the Home Energy Model (HEM) for EPCs.
GOV.UK: Home Energy Model and EPCs consultation (closed 18 Mar 2026)First minimum energy standard for social rented homes confirmed within a reformed Decent Homes Standard.
GOV.UK: reformed Decent Homes Standard response (28 Jan 2026)HEM launch delayed and separated from the Future Homes Standard; SAP 10.3 stays in use meanwhile.
GOV.UK: Home Energy Model, replacement for SAPRented commercial buildings over 1,000m² to reach EPC B by 2031 where cost-effective; smaller buildings stay at E.
GOV.UK: non-domestic MEES interim response (18 Jun 2026)Future Homes Standard building regulations come into force for new homes.
GOV.UK: Future Homes and Buildings Standards circular 01/2026New-style EPCs in Scotland.
Scottish Government: EPC reform updatesNew HEM-based EPCs in England and Wales (originally planned for October 2026).
GOV.UK: Home Energy Model, replacement for SAPCompliance deadline for private rented homes: EPC C equivalent.
GOV.UK: improving the energy performance of privately rented homes (response, 21 Jan 2026)Facts checked 4 October 2026. Figures are typical and depend on your property, usage and tariff. This is general information, not personal advice.
Whether you own one home or thousands, Max can map your properties against the new standards and show a practical, funded route.
