New EPC tool could protect landlords from needless costly upgrades

Landlords worried about the costs to upgrade homes to meet higher EPC standards may find a new tool launched by PropEco useful.

The property data firm has introduced its EPC audit system, designed to uncover and correct mistakes in Energy Performance Certificates.

With government proposals set to require all private rented sector properties to achieve a minimum of a C rating, the accuracy of assessments has never been more important for owners, buyers and lenders.

According to PropEco, more than half of all EPCs contain at least one serious flaw, potentially leading to inaccurate assessments of energy use, improvement options and, most critically, property value.

In some cases, correcting these errors results in a lower rating, which can affect sales or force landlords into non-compliance.

Push landlords into EPC compliance

The firm’s director, Chris Hardman, said: “Incorrect EPC data isn’t just a clerical error; it’s a financial liability waiting to happen.

“A downgraded EPC rating can slash property value overnight, derail sales, or push landlords into non-compliance with minimum energy efficiency standards, increasing mortgage default risk.”

He added: “Lenders increasingly tie mortgage rates to EPC bands A-C but relying on flawed EPC data creates a huge risk.

“PropEco’s EPC Audit tool is designed to flag the many identifiable issues within EPCs, helping stakeholders spot hidden opportunities as well as avoid costly mistakes.”

EPC tool offers reliability

The firm says that research shows a direct correlation between EPC ratings and value, and, in some cases, EPC A-rated homes have been found to command premiums of 12% or more over lower-rated equivalents.

The new auditing system applies hundreds of automated checks, using the firm’s dedicated dataset to identify discrepancies.

The aim is to provide a more reliable picture for surveyors, valuers, lenders and buyers, helping them avoid unexpected costs or sudden devaluations.

The EPC Audit tool is now available through PropEco’s platform, with access options ranging from API integration and bulk downloads to a web-based Data Explorer.