Hull’s property market is dominated by older homes, particularly Victorian and Edwardian terraces, alongside a high proportion of private rentals and converted flats. While these properties remain popular with buyers and tenants, they are also more likely to present challenges when it comes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
Why Hull Properties Are More Likely to Face EPC Issues
Many properties across areas such as Newland, Beverley Road, Holderness Road, Anlaby Road and Hessle Road were built long before modern energy standards. As a result, EPC ratings in Hull frequently sit in the D or E bands.
In 2026, this matters more because EPCs increasingly affect:
- Whether a property can be legally let
- How quickly a home can be brought to market
- Buyer and tenant confidence around running costs
- Mortgage and lender queries during transactions
Converted Flats and HMOs: A Common Hull Problem
Hull has a large number of converted houses, flats and shared rental properties. These can create EPC complications where:
- Heating systems differ between units
- Insulation levels vary throughout the building
- Extensions or alterations were added over time
In these cases, EPC assessments can raise questions that delay listings if the certificate is missing, expired or inaccurate.
EPC Expiry Is Catching Hull Landlords Off Guard
EPCs are valid for 10 years. Many certificates issued during the rental boom around 2015–2016 are now expiring in 2026.
Landlords are often unaware of expiry until a property is:
- Re-let to a new tenant
- Advertised online
- Reviewed during compliance checks
Once expired, the EPC must be replaced before the property can legally be marketed.
How EPC Ratings Can Affect Property Value and Demand
Nationally, EPC ratings are increasingly influencing buyer behaviour, rental demand and pricing discussions — particularly for older housing stock. This trend is explored in more detail in our guide on how EPC ratings affect house prices, rentals and buyer demand in the UK.
In Hull, where many properties are similar in size and layout, EPC ratings can become a deciding factor when buyers or tenants compare options.
How Long an EPC Assessment Takes
An EPC assessment typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size, layout and complexity of the property.
The assessor will review:
- Heating systems and controls
- Insulation levels
- Wall and roof construction
- Glazing type
- Extensions or structural changes
In most cases, EPCs are lodged and available digitally on the same day.
Booking an EPC in Hull
If your property is located in Hull or the surrounding HU postcode area, local availability and booking options can be found on our dedicated Hull page:
EPC appointments can also be arranged directly via the online booking page.
Conclusion
Hull’s property market presents specific EPC challenges due to its older housing stock and rental profile. Understanding EPC expiry, compliance requirements and potential delays helps property owners avoid issues and keep sales or lettings moving smoothly in 2026.
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