Summary
An energy performance certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a property is.
An EPC is required when a home is sold, rented out or newly built. It is also needed for some home improvement grant schemes, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
The certificate gives each property a rating from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient). This can help to estimate the home’s heating and lighting bills, and its CO2 emissions.
The certificate will also state the steps that can be taken to improve a property’s energy efficiency. It shows an estimate of the highest possible rating that could be achieved if these improvements were made.
Private rented homes
If your home is privately rented, it must have a minimum rating of EPC band E by law. This is set out in regulations called the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
If a property has an EPC rating below E, landlords are not allowed to rent out the property unless they make energy efficiency improvements. Landlords who fail to meet the regulations can be fined.
The EPC will list the energy efficiency improvements that the landlord could make. If it is not possible to get the house up to an E rating or above, without exceeding a spending cap set out in the regulations, the landlord must do everything they can to achieve this level and then apply for an exemption.
EPC assessments
EPC assessments must be carried out by an accredited domestic energy assessor.
The cost of an EPC is paid by the property owner and typically ranges from £60 to £120 for most homes. Prices may be higher for larger homes or more complex buildings.
During the assessment, the assessor will look at factors such as:
- The age and construction of the property
- Insulation levels (looking at, for example, loft and wall insulation)
- The heating system and controls
- Windows and glazing.
The assessor uses this information to give the property a score of 1 to 92+, which determines its A to G rating. An EPC is valid for 10 years.
Common problems
EPCs aren’t always accurate as they depend on the information collected during the assessment. In some cases, EPC scores may appear higher or lower than might be expected. Common causes of inaccurate EPCs include:
- Incorrect assumptions about wall types or insulation
- Outdated or inaccurate heating system information
- Limited access to the property during the assessment.
If an EPC is inaccurate, residents should contact the energy assessor who produced the EPC and request a reassessment.
More information
Look up the EPC for a specific home
Find a local domestic energy assessor
Read the guidance for landlords – tenants can use this to find out what the landlord should be doing