If you own, let or manage commercial property, you’ve probably seen reports that the Government has delayed planned changes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
That has left many landlords asking:
- Do I still need a Commercial EPC?
- Have the EPC rules changed?
- Are MEES regulations still in force?
- Should I wait before getting a new EPC?
The short answer is no.
Current Commercial EPC requirements remain in place, and most landlords selling or letting commercial property must still comply with existing legislation.
This guide explains what the Government has announced, what has not changed, and what commercial property owners should do next.
If you need a Commercial EPC quickly, you can Book now or Call now to speak directly with an accredited assessor.
- Current Commercial EPC rules have not been removed.
- Most commercial properties still require a valid EPC when sold or let.
- MEES regulations continue to apply.
- Future EPC reforms are still being developed.
- Commercial landlords should continue to comply with existing legislation.
Has the Government Changed Commercial EPC Rules?
No.
Although the Government has announced further work on future EPC reforms, the current legal requirements remain in force.
That means most commercial properties still require:
- a valid Commercial EPC before being marketed
- compliance with current MEES regulations
- an EPC rating of E or above for most rented commercial properties
For most landlords and business owners, nothing has changed regarding today’s legal obligations.
Why Are EPC Reforms Being Reviewed?
The Government has been consulting with property professionals, landlords, energy experts and industry bodies on how EPCs should evolve in the future.
The aim is to improve:
- the accuracy of EPC assessments
- building performance data
- digital EPC records
- consistency across the property sector
More detailed reforms are expected in the coming years.
What Has Not Changed?
Commercial property owners must still comply with existing regulations.
If you are:
- selling commercial property
- granting a new lease
- marketing business premises
- renewing certain leases
you will usually still need a valid Commercial EPC.
Waiting for future reforms is unlikely to help with current transactions.
Do Current EPC Certificates Remain Valid?
Yes.
Existing EPC certificates remain valid for up to 10 years, unless a new assessment is required because:
- the certificate has expired
- major building improvements have been completed
- a new EPC is needed for a transaction
What Should Commercial Landlords Do Now?
The safest approach is to continue following current legislation.
Landlords should:
- Check whether their EPC is still valid.
- Confirm the property’s current rating.
- Ensure the building meets MEES requirements where applicable.
- Arrange a new Commercial EPC if the certificate has expired.
This avoids unnecessary delays when selling or letting commercial property.
Will Future EPC Rules Become Stricter?
The Government has indicated that future EPC reforms are intended to improve the way buildings are assessed.
Further changes are expected over the coming years, particularly as the UK works towards improving building energy efficiency.
However, until new legislation comes into force, existing Commercial EPC rules continue to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need a Commercial EPC in 2026?
Yes. Most commercial properties still require a valid EPC when sold or let.
Have MEES regulations changed?
Current MEES requirements remain in force.
Should I wait for the new EPC rules?
No. If your property currently requires an EPC, you should comply with existing legislation.
Is my current EPC still valid?
Most EPC certificates remain valid for 10 years from the date of issue.
Final Thought
The Government’s review of future EPC reforms does not remove today’s legal obligations.
Commercial landlords, investors and business owners should continue to comply with current EPC regulations when selling, letting or marketing property.
If your Commercial EPC has expired or you’re preparing for a transaction, arranging a new assessment now is usually the best way to avoid delays and remain compliant.
If you need a Commercial EPC in London, Book now, Get a fast quote, or Call now to speak directly with an accredited assessor.