Many landlords may already be closer to 2030 EPC targets than they think

The analysis shows that properties with two and three habitable rooms currently hold the highest average EPC score at 70.2, placing them comfortably within the current EPC C banding of 69 to 80. 

In contrast, larger homes see a gradual decline in energy performance as property size increases. Homes with more than nine habitable rooms record an average EPC score of 63.0, placing them firmly within EPC D territory. 

The data also highlights the stronger energy efficiency performance of flats when compared to other property types. Flats currently hold the highest average EPC score at 72.8, outperforming houses (70.0), maisonettes (70.1) and bungalows (67.6). 

Privately rented homes also compare favourably to owner-occupied properties. The average EPC score for privately rented homes currently stands at 68.9, above the owner-occupied average of 68.1 and just marginally below EPC C territory. 

Rushbrook & Rathbone believes the findings suggest that many landlords, particularly those operating smaller rental properties and flats, may already be far closer to future EPC requirements than they realise. 

However, the firm also warns that maintaining standards over the coming years will remain just as important as achieving them initially, particularly as energy regulations continue to evolve alongside wider reforms within the private rented sector. 

Roma Sharma, Managing Director of Rushbrook & Rathbone, commented: 

“There has understandably been a great deal of concern amongst landlords regarding proposed EPC requirements and the potential cost of bringing properties up to standard. 

However, what this data suggests is that many landlords may already be in a far stronger position than they expect, particularly those with smaller rental homes or flats, which naturally tend to perform better from an energy efficiency perspective. 

Over recent years, many landlords have already invested in improvements such as upgraded heating systems, insulation, glazing and lighting, often as part of wider refurbishment and maintenance programmes.

That said, compliance is rarely something that can simply be dealt with once and then forgotten about. Standards, legislation and assessment methodologies continue to evolve, particularly as the private rented sector becomes more regulated. 

For many landlords, the challenge over the next four years may be less about dramatic upgrades and more about ensuring standards are maintained consistently over time through proactive management, regular maintenance and ongoing investment in the property.”

Data tables and sources

Rushbrook & Rathbone analysed EPC lodgement data from a sample of 589,549 certificates issued during 2026. Source: https://get-energy-performance-data.communities.gov.uk/

Analysis includes average EPC scores by property size, property type and tenure.

View full data tables and sources online here.