The UK’s system for assessing the energy performance of buildings is undergoing the most significant overhaul in more than a decade. Across the UK, governments are finalising reforms aimed at modernising Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and improving the accuracy, usability, and relevance of building energy information.

In a recent update from the UK and Scottish Government, it has been confirmed that EPC reform release dates will be pushed back to the second half of 2027 (previously October 2026).

England & Wales: What we know so far

On the 21st January 2026 Government released a partial response to EPC reform alongside the Government’s Warm Homes Plan. Within that partial response we learnt of the intentions to move away from a single headline metric and the introduction of a new style EPC around multiple performance metrics. A retainment of the 10-year validity period and clearer guidance on when EPC’s are required including Listed buildings and HMO’s. 

In the response Government stated an ambitious aim of delivering these changes by October 2026 alongside the implementation of the Home Energy Model (HEM). Elmhurst and wider industry had questioned this timeline from the offset deeming it optimistic but unrealistic when taking into account what needs to be delivered in order to achieve this:

• The training and upskilling of thousands of energy assessors
• Re-development of the DEA qualification for new entrants
• The full methodology or transition documents are yet to be published
• Conventions require updating
• Software/UI approval
• DEA feedback/user groups, including beta testing of new software.

Following engagement with industry on delivery timelines, EPC reform will be delayed until the second half of 2027. Government will now work with industry and the devolved administrations to agree a revised launch date and a shared implementation plan by summer 2026.

Read the full update from Government below.