An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures the energy efficiency of a property and rates it from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). This rating reflects how energy efficient the building itself is, along with systems like heating and hot water. Similar to energy ratings on household appliances, the EPC uses a color-coded scale to make it easy to understand.

In addition to the rating, an EPC provides:

• Estimated energy usage and costs for the property.
• Recommendations for improving energy efficiency—like installing insulation or switching to LED bulbs. It also estimates how much these changes might cost and how much you could save on your energy bills once improvements are made.

EPCs are valid for 10 years or until a new one is issued, and they’re based on “standard occupancy,” which assumes typical usage patterns for a family of four. This might differ from how the current occupants actually use energy.

If you’re selling, renting, or building a property in the UK, it’s legally required to have a valid EPC. It helps potential buyers or tenants understand the energy performance of the building and estimated running costs.

• Homeowners looking to sell their property
• Landlords renting out a property
• Developers constructing new buildings
• Businesses leasing commercial premises

Certain properties are exempt from requiring an EPC, including:

• Buildings used for less than 4 months a year, such as holiday homes.
• Workshops and industrial sites.
• Buildings set for demolition or use for less than two years.
• Small buildings under 50 square meters.
• Religious buildings.

A Domestic Energy Assessor from Energy Matters will inspect several aspects of your home, including:

• The overall size of the property.
• The type and amount of insulation used.
• Heating systems.
• The type of windows (single, double, or triple glazing).
• Lighting types.

The assessor needs access to all rooms, including the loft, but the process is non-invasive, meaning no drilling or damage will occur.

• Lower energy bills: The more efficient your property, the less you’ll spend on energy.
• Increased property value: A better EPC rating can boost your home’s value, though you’ll need to weigh this against the cost of improvements.
• Access to green mortgages: Properties with high EPC ratings may qualify for better mortgage rates.
• Lower carbon footprint: Improving your EPC rating helps reduce your home’s environmental impact.

It’s not mandatory, but recommended. Having an EPC before and after improvements helps track your progress. Using the same assessor ensures consistency in the rating process.

No, unfortunately not, only an accredited energy assessor can conduct an official EPC assessment.

An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date of issue.

Failure to provide an EPC when required can result in fines. Property owners or landlords may be fined up to £5,000 for non-compliance.

A higher energy efficiency rating (A or B) can increase a property’s desirability and potentially its market value. A lower rating (E, F, or G) might indicate higher running costs, which can be off-putting to buyers or tenants.

Upgrading insulation, installing energy-efficient lighting, replacing old boilers, and using renewable energy sources (such as solar panels) can help improve your EPC rating.

You can hire a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) via our contact page here