Research suggests many landlords may be in a far stronger position than expected when it comes to meeting proposed EPC targets by 2030.
Rushbrook & Rathbone analysed EPC lodgement data from a sample of 589,549 certificates issued so far during 2026, looking at how average EPC scores vary by property size, property type and tenure.
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.
A spokesperson says: “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.”
