New EPC Rules Explained: What Every Commercial Property Investor Needs to Know (with Jonathan Murton)

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations are changing, and they could have a significant impact on commercial property investors, landlords, developers and business owners over the coming years.

In this episode of The Commercial Property Podcast, Suzi Carter is joined by EPC expert Jonathan Murton of Murton & Co to cut through the confusion surrounding the proposed Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), EPC ratings and the latest government proposals.

Together they discuss what the draft regulations could mean for commercial property owners, how the rules differ between commercial and residential property, and why understanding EPCs has become an essential part of making informed investment decisions.

Jonathan explains how EPC assessments are carried out, the common misconceptions surrounding energy ratings, the exemptions investors need to understand, and the practical steps landlords can take now to future-proof their portfolios.

If you're buying, refinancing, asset managing or simply reviewing your commercial property portfolio, this episode will help you understand the potential risks, identify opportunities and avoid costly mistakes as the regulatory landscape continues to evolve.

• The latest proposed changes to commercial EPC and MEES regulations.
• What the Government's consultation could mean for commercial property investors.
• How commercial EPC assessments differ from residential EPCs.
• The relationship between EPC ratings, property values and commercial lending.
• Which commercial properties may qualify for exemptions.
• Practical ways to improve EPC ratings without unnecessary expenditure.
• How EPC regulations can influence investment strategy and asset management decisions.
• The importance of planning ahead before purchasing your next commercial property.
• The future direction of energy efficiency legislation and what investors should be watching.

Many investors still view EPCs as little more than a compliance exercise.

In reality, EPC ratings are becoming an increasingly important factor in commercial property investing. They can affect lettability, financing, future capital expenditure requirements and, ultimately, the value of an asset.

Understanding the proposed regulations now gives investors time to plan strategically rather than reacting when legislation changes.

As we always say at the Commercial Property Academy, successful commercial property investing isn't just about buying the right building. It's about understanding the wider market forces that will influence its future performance.

Jonathan Murton is a Chartered Surveyor and qualified Energy Assessor with more than 20 years' experience advising the property industry. As a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), he specialises in commercial and residential EPC assessments, helping property owners understand energy performance requirements, regulatory compliance and practical improvement strategies.

His straightforward, commercial approach makes complex legislation far easier for investors and landlords to understand.

 jonny@murtonandco.uk

 www.murtonandco.uk