EPC Reform Delays – A personal perspective by Jonny Murton-Lavelle, managing director, Murton & Co

The government’s decision to delay domestic Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) reforms until the second half of 2027 has prompted debate across the property and energy compliance sector.

In this opinion piece, Jonny Murton-Lavelle MRICS, managing director of Murton & Co, shares his perspective on why the delay is understandable, the challenges continued uncertainty creates for landlords and property professionals and what steps the government should take next to ensure the reforms deliver meaningful progress towards energy efficiency and net zero goals.

Understanding the delay

The government’s decision to delay domestic Energy Performance Certificate reforms to the second half of 2027 will frustrate many in the property sector. 

At the same time, it’s understandable. 

These reforms are substantial and technically complex. Getting the methodology right, training assessors and ensuring the system is robust all take time. Rushing it could create more problems than it solves.

Having worked in the property sector for many years, I know how much the industry relies on clear guidance and stable timelines. EPCs don’t exist in isolation. They underpin key policies such as the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, Building Regulations, Future Homes Standards, and wider retrofit programmes. If the reforms are implemented before everything is aligned, it could create confusion for landlords, investors, and property professionals trying to plan ahead.

Industry preparedness

Ensuring industry preparedness is critical. Assessors, software providers and property professionals all need time to adapt to new methodologies and standards. A well-prepared industry is essential if the system is going to work effectively in practice.

Even with a justified delay, uncertainty carries challenges. Landlords may hesitate to invest in energy efficiency improvements or retrofit projects while the regulatory framework remains unclear. Consultants like us find it harder to advise clients when the final rules are not defined. Repeated timetable changes risk creating frustration across the sector and could reduce confidence in EPCs as a credible driver of building performance improvements.

Impacts for tenants and Net Zero

There are consequences for tenants too. Slower progress in energy efficiency can mean higher energy bills, less comfortable homes, and buildings that underperform. The delays also place pressure on the sector to meet net zero targets. If action is rushed once the reforms are introduced, it may not be cost-effective, efficient, or sustainable.

What should the Government do?

The government needs to provide a clear roadmap for reform, showing a transparent timeline and how it aligns with related policies like MEES and retrofit programmes. Industry engagement must continue, ensuring that assessors, software providers, and property professionals have input and confidence that the system will work in practice. And the focus must remain on trust and technical robustness. Every aspect - methodology, software, guidance and enforcement - needs to be thoroughly stress-tested to avoid errors and build credibility.

How Murton & Co supports clients

At Murton & Co, we help landlords, developers, and assessors navigate these challenges every day. From EPCs on existing buildings and SAP & SBEM calculations for new builds to retrofitting advice and detailed energy statements, we turn technical requirements into practical, actionable steps. Our aim is to reduce uncertainty, prevent costly mistakes, and keep projects moving, even when the regulatory environment is shifting.

Looking ahead

EPC reform has been long overdue. While delays can test patience, they also give the sector time to prepare properly. When the new system is implemented, it will be stronger, more practical, and capable of delivering real improvements in energy efficiency, tenant comfort and progress toward net zero. With clear guidance, robust preparation, and collaborative engagement, the property sector can move forward confidently.

These are my thoughts based on years of experience supporting landlords, developers, and assessors. Delays aren’t ideal, but if handled well, they can lead to a better, more sustainable outcome for everyone involved. At the end of the day, getting it right matters more than getting it fast.

— Jonny Murton-Lavelle MRICS, Managing Director, Murton & Co

Murton & Co offers expert, practical energy efficiency assessment and compliance solutions for commercial and domestic clients. From EPCs, SAP & SBEM calculations to thermal bridging and retrofit advice.

We make complex regulations simple and achievable. Clients trust us to provide diligent, responsive support, proactively manage risks, and ensure compliance is delivered efficiently and accurately.

We combine sector-specific expertise with a friendly, approachable manner, turning complicated processes into clear, actionable steps.