EPC in Lambeth

Since April 2020, all privately rented domestic properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of at least E before a landlord can grant a new tenancy or renew an existing one. There are limited exemptions, such as where all cost-effective improvements have already been made (the 'all improvements made' exemption) or where the cost of improvements exceeds the cap. Exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and last for five years.

The main factors are wall insulation, loft insulation, floor insulation, window glazing type, boiler efficiency and heating controls, hot water system, lighting, and any renewable energy sources such as solar panels. The age and construction type of the building set the baseline, while upgrades to insulation and heating are the most effective ways to improve the score.

The most cost-effective measures are usually loft insulation (can improve the rating by up to 10 points), cavity wall insulation, upgrading to a condensing boiler with a programmer and room thermostat, switching to LED lighting, and draught-proofing. For properties with solid walls, external or internal wall insulation gives the biggest single improvement but is more expensive. The EPC report itself lists recommended measures with estimated costs and savings.

London Borough of Lambeth operates Selective (£923) and Additional HMO (£520 / bedroom). An EPC of at least rating E is a licence-grant condition — the team checks the document at application and will return incomplete submissions.

In Lambeth, the highest demand for EPC comes from SW2 (Brixton/Streatham Hill), SW9 (Brixton/Stockwell), SW16 (Streatham) — areas with the largest concentration of Georgian terraces near Kennington and converted Victorian houses in Brixton and Stockwell. Georgian terraces near Kennington and converted Victorian houses in Brixton and Stockwell typically start with D or E ratings — loft and cavity insulation are the quickest paths to a C.