For many owners of furnished holiday lets (FHLs), one of the most confusing regulatory areas is understanding when an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required. Holiday properties operate differently from standard residential rentals, which often leads to uncertainty and inconsistent compliance. In this article, we break down the holiday let EPC rules clearly, helping property owners understand their responsibilities and avoid potential penalties.
Whether you own a single holiday cottage or manage a portfolio of short-term rentals, this guide will help ensure you stay compliant with UK regulations.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (highest) to G (lowest). EPCs are legally required in many property transactions, including selling, letting, or building.
For holiday let owners, the key issue is identifying whether their rental activity qualifies as a letting under EPC law. Understanding this distinction ensures you meet the required EPC compliance standards.
The short answer: It depends on how your holiday let is used.
A holiday property requires an EPC only if:
It is rented out for periods of more than 4 months in total per year, or
It is marketed for long-term lets, or
It is rented out as an individual unit rather than rooms within a larger building.
On the other hand, you may not need an EPC for a holiday let if:
The property is let for less than 4 months per year total,
You do not have a long-term tenancy option,
You provide short-term accommodation similar to a hotel or guesthouse.
These rules are specifically designed to differentiate holiday lets from standard residential tenancies.
Many owners assume that because a property is used for short stays, EPCs are optional. However, the Holiday Let EPC rules clearly state that an EPC is required if the property is occupied for more than 4 months annually.
For example:
If you run a holiday cottage that stays booked most of the year, you must obtain an EPC.
If your FHL is seasonal and receives guests only during peak periods (less than 4 months total), an EPC may not be needed.
Failing to follow these holiday let EPC rules can result in penalties and complications during property sales or refinancing.
For properties that fall under EPC regulations, owners must follow the standard EPC requirements for holiday lets, including:
Your EPC must be updated once it expires.
Currently, rental properties must achieve E rating or above.
Although holiday lets are not regulated as tightly as private rentals, future updates may align standards.
If your holiday let is listed with an agent, the EPC must be included in the marketing material.
Improving energy efficiency can reduce operational costs and increase guest comfort.
Understanding these FHL EPC requirements ensures you remain compliant and avoid unexpected issues during inspections or audits.
Ensuring EPC compliance is essential from both a legal and business perspective. A compliant property is:
More attractive to environmentally conscious guests
Cheaper to run due to reduced energy waste
Better positioned for future regulatory changes
A failure in holiday let compliance could lead to fines, legal complications, and restrictions on advertising your property.
An EPC is not required when:
The property qualifies as “let for less than 4 months per year”
You operate similarly to a B&B or hotel (frequent turnover, short stays)
The accommodation is not self-contained (e.g., rooms within a main house)
However, many owners still choose to obtain an EPC voluntarily, as it helps identify energy improvements and boosts the value of the property.
Even if not legally required, having an EPC brings several advantages:
Guests prefer properties that are warm, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Energy efficiency improvements can significantly increase market value.
Owners often save on heating and electricity after following EPC recommendations.
EPC rules may become stricter—having a strong rating positions you ahead of competitors.
Understanding the holiday let EPC rules is essential for every Furnished Holiday Let owner. Whether your property meets the EPC requirements for holiday lets depends on how often it is rented and the nature of your letting arrangement.
If you’re still unsure “Do I need an EPC for a holiday let?” it’s best to consult an accredited assessor who can confirm your property’s status.
Staying ahead with EPC compliance not only keeps you legally safe but also enhances your property’s efficiency, value, and guest experience.
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