Non-domestic EPCs in 2025: What’s Changing, What’s Not, and Why It Still Matters
If you own, manage, or let commercial property in the UK, you’ve likely heard murmurs (or panicked questions) about “the new EPC rules.” And you’re not alone.
Right now, Google is flooded with searches like:
“Are there new EPC rules for commercial buildings?”
“What EPC rating do I need by law?”
“When do I need to hit EPC C or B?”
The short answer? There aren’t any new EPC laws coming into force in 2025. But changes are coming. But here’s why the buzz isn’t just noise - and why 2025 should be a year of action, not complacency.
What’s Actually Changing - And When
Although no new EPC regulations take effect in 2025, there is an EPC consultation just closed and awaiting a response from the UK government, which has made the direction of travel clear:
A valid EPC will be required at all times on any let buildings.
EPC validity is likely to be reduced, probably to 5 years, with existing EPCs likely to retain their 10 year validity.
These aren’t legally binding (yet), but the consultation signals strong intent, with new regulations likely in 2026.
There are also no new MEES regulations taking effect in 2025, with the non-domestic MEES consultation imminent and likely to propose:
2030/2031: A further uplift to “B”.
A revised Exemptions process
Increased compliance action
For many landlords, this means going from today’s minimum standard of E to B within 5/6 years - a significant jump, especially for older building stock.
What Should You Do Right Now?
At MEES Solutions, we recommend a 4-step approach:
Review your current EPC ratings portfolio-wide. Many landlords aren’t even aware of the current status of their buildings given changes in the calculation and methodology.
Identify “at-risk” properties likely to fall short of a B rating.
Commission scenario modelling – we provide common sense EPC uplift strategies showing the lowest-cost routes to compliance (sometimes a single upgrade makes a big difference).
Understand the exemptions process. There’s a lot of scare-mongering in the market right now. Some advisors are claiming that any property below EPC B by 2030 will become immediately unlettable. This is simply not true.
The reality is: if you've explored all short-payback measures and still can't achieve the required rating, you may be eligible to register for exemptions. The key is understanding the process and submitting the right documentation.
We help clients assess improvement potential and exemption eligibility, so they can make decisions based on facts - not fear.
Our Take
2025 may not bring new EPC laws - but it is a decisive year for planning.
Waiting for legislation to become law is a reactive approach. But getting ahead of compliance, aligning with Net Zero goals, and protecting your assets? That’s both a proactive and strategic approach.
Want to discuss your property’s EPC roadmap? Want free, sensical advice?
Get in touch.