Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) reform: consultation

5. Legislating for EPC Reform and Timeline

We propose to introduce the reformed EPC shortly after amended Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations are introduced in Winter 2023-24, ahead of proposed Heat in Buildings regulations being introduced.

Should EPCs be required as an information or evidentiary tool for wider Heat in Building legislation, then introduction ahead of this allows the market, EPC assessors and buildings owners time to become accustomed with reformed EPCs in advance.

It will also take a period of time for the underlying calculation methodology to be adapted to introduce the new metrics, and for software providers and our EPC register to implement the changes. We intend to also undertake work to understand user needs and redesign the EPC.

However, we will review the UK Government’s development of SAP 11 and will consider aligning our EPC reform with the launch of SAP 11 in 2025. This may be more beneficial as it could reduce the number of times EPCs change and make it easier for EPC users to understand. This will be kept under consideration and balanced with wider need for EPC reform.

Consultation Questions : Legislating for EPC Reform and Timeline

19. Do you have a view on our timeline for reform implementation?