EPC Regulations - UPDATE
Senior Associate Partner, Head of Residential Lettings
Keep up to date with the latest properties, rural business insights, market commentary and events:
Join mailing listThe government has made the decision to delay the introduction of the new EPC Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for rental properties. Originally scheduled to change in 2028, the government have now delayed this until 2030.
Where are we now?
The current standards, where a rental property must have an EPC rating of Band E or better, have been in place since 2018. This prevents landlords, with properties rated at an F or G, from being able to grant tenancies to new or existing tenants, in addition to continuing to let such a property, without a valid exemption.
The New Standards
Under the Warm Home Plan, issued by the Government on the 21st January 2026, all landlords, either signing new agreements, or with currently running tenancies, will now have until October 2030, to ensure their rental properties have an EPC rating of Band C or above – or a valid PRS exemption obtained.
Investing in Energy Efficiency
The government has also confirmed its plan to change the maximum investment cap required for EPC compliance, which will now be set at £10,000.
In addition, any energy efficiency works undertaken in a property between October 2025 and the deadline, will count towards the investment cap.
For landlords, this change in timetable will allow additional time to plan investment works, particularly for older or less energy-efficient properties where upgrades can be complex and costly.
This should be seen as an opportunity for landlords to make best use of the time they have available, in order to make the necessary changes. Landlords who plan early, understand the cost cap, and take a phased approach to improvements will be best placed in the letting market from 2030 and beyond into the future.
January 2026
Why Sellers Need To Be Prepared To Sell
January and February are traditionally a time of assessment in the Cotswolds property market. Conversations begin in earnest with market appraisals requested and plans discussed. With spring now underway, the outlook feels more defined, helping confidence to build as the market moves forward. We have been particularly busy with market appraisals in recent weeks; it seems many are firmly in the mindset to move this year and are making a good start by getting ahead with their preparation.
Why Sellers Need To Be Prepared To Sell
Popular Local Establishment Re-opens – Hurrah!
Nestled in the picturesque village of Ewen, just a stone’s throw from Cirencester, this delightful 16th-century pub has long been a much-loved local landmark. Now, after a careful and considered restoration, The Wild Duck has officially reopened its doors and wow what a return it was!
Popular Local Establishment Re-opens – Hurrah!
Why the Cotswolds Remains One of the Strongest Property Markets in the UK
Few regions in the UK combine lifestyle appeal, long-term value and consistent demand quite like the Cotswolds. Despite periods of national market uncertainty, the Cotswolds continues to stand out as one of the country’s most resilient and desirable property markets, attracting homeowners, investors, and international buyers alike. So, what underpins this enduring strength?
Why the Cotswolds Remains One of the Strongest Property Markets in the UK
A Personal Approach to Property: Client Experiences with Butler Sherborn
At Butler Sherborn, client experience sits at the heart of everything we do. Across sales and lettings, our teams pride themselves on professionalism, local knowledge and a truly personal approach. The following recent reviews from 2026 highlight just a few of the outstanding experiences our clients have shared.
A Personal Approach to Property: Client Experiences with Butler Sherborn
