The ultimate Energy Performance Certificate guide for UK homeowners.
If you’ve ever wondered what that colourful graph on a property advert means, this guide is for you! What you’re viewing is the Energy Performance Certificate, often shortened to ‘EPC’. It's not just another piece of paperwork. See it as your home's energy health check – it tells you how efficient it is.
Understanding your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can potentially save you pennies and help you make more sustainable choices. We’ll explain everything you need to know about EPCs, from their importance to creating a greener home.
Understanding Energy Performance Certificates.
Think of an Energy Performance Certificate as a nutritional label, but for your property. It tells you how energy efficient a property is by giving it a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
This rating is based on factors like insulation and heating systems. However, it also estimates your property's carbon dioxide emissions and suggests improvements. Basically, it’s a handy snapshot of potential energy costs and environmental impact.
Legal requirements in the UK.
In the UK, you must have an Energy Performance Certificate if you're planning to sell or rent out your property. Landlords need to provide one to tenants, while sellers need to have one for potential buyers. It's part of the government's drive for more energy-efficient homes and you could receive a fine if you don’t comply.
What can I expect to see on an EPC?
It’s important to mention that not all Energy Performance Certificates look identical. Older certificates may show a different order of information, and they also tend to vary slightly depending on where you’re based in Great Britain. However, the sections and information covered should be the same.
Here are a couple of key features you can expect to see.
The energy efficiency rating (A to G).
The environmental impact rating (carbon emissions).
Estimated energy costs for heating, lighting, and hot water.
Recommendations for improvement and potential cost savings.
Property details and the date of assessment.
The assessor's details and accreditation number.
Who needs an Energy Performance Certificate?
It's not just when you're selling or letting that Energy Performance Certificates are important. You'll need one for any of the following reasons:
Building a new property (before sale or rental).
Selling a property (the seller must provide one).
Renting out a property (landlords must provide a valid one to tenants).
Selling or letting certain commercial buildings.
It’s also important to note that in Scotland, the EPC rating must be on display at the property (for example, near the boiler or meter cupboard).
Certain properties may be exempt from needing an EPC, such as some listed buildings and short term holiday lets. But for most homes, an EPC is a legal requirement.
Homeowners and property managers could benefit.
Energy Performance Certificates provide important information about energy costs for buyers and renters alike, helping them make informed decisions. Even if you're not moving, understanding your EPC can be a huge benefit.
Discover energy saving opportunities.
The recommendations from your EPC could highlight ways to lower bills through sustainable upgrades, such as free or discounted insulation through the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS).
Potential to increase your property’s value.
An efficient home with a good rating could attract more buyers.
Boost home comfort.
Upgrades like better insulation can make your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Attract greener tenants.
For property managers, valid EPCs ensure legal compliance and attract environmentally conscious tenants.
How to get an Energy Performance Certificate.
So, are you thinking of getting an Energy Performance Certificate for your property? The process is pretty straightforward. Here's the full lowdown:
Finding an accredited assessor.
It's vital to use an accredited assessor registered with an approved certification body.
If you’re based in England, Wales or Northern Islands, you can find a full list of qualified assessors on the Government website.
If you’re based in Scotland, you must choose a government approved accessor. Find a full list of organisations on the Scottish Energy Performance Certificate Register.
The cost.
The cost varies based on property size and location. Getting an EPC quote typically costs between £60 and £1201.
The assessment.
The assessor will inspect your property through measured surveys and photographs of the insulation, heating, windows, and lighting.
Receiving your EPC.
Once complete, the details are lodged, and you’ll receive your certificate. It’s valid for 10 years.
Understanding your Energy Performance Certificate rating.
The Energy Performance Certificate rating scale is a mix of letters (from A to G) and colours (from dark green to red) that reflect the efficiency rating in a building. You'll also see a numerical score from 1 to 90 plus, with higher scores meaning better efficiency.
Let's break down those figures and explore the EPC rating scale.
A (92 plus) Most efficient - Lowest bills and emissions.
B (81-91) Very efficient - Good performance
C (69-80) Mid-range - Reasonable efficiency. Some room for improvement.
D (55-68) Below average - Room for improvement.
E (39-54) Inefficient - Higher costs and emissions.
F (21-38) Very inefficient - High running costs. Action needed soon.
G (1-20) Least efficient - Highest bills and emissions. Action needed promptly.
Generally, C or above is considered good. Higher ratings mean lower energy bills and a smaller environmental impact. Rental properties currently need a minimum E rating, but this could change.
How is an Energy Performance Certificate calculated?
When it comes to calculating your Energy Performance Certificate rating, the two main considerations:
Carbon dioxide emission levels.
The amount of energy used per square metre.
Assessors use a standard methodology and software to generate the rating. The calculation considers:
Insulation: Loft, wall, and floor.
Heating system: Type and efficiency of the boiler.
Hot water system: How it's heated and stored.
Windows and doors: Glazing type.
Lighting: Energy efficient bulbs.
Renewable energy technologies: Like solar panels.
Boost your property’s Energy Performance Certificate rating.
Not everyone can get their property into A category, but there are plenty of ways to make improvements. Energy Performance Certificates play a big part in the UK's sustainability efforts by highlighting areas that lack efficiency, encouraging improvements. Check out some of our top recommendations.
Top recommendations for a better EPC rating.
Top-notch insulation, including loft, cavity wall, and solid wall insulation.
A modern boiler upgrade to increase efficiency.
Double or triple glazing to reduce heat loss and noise.
Draught-proofing to seal gaps around openings.
Energy efficient LED lighting.
Renewable energy options like solar panels or heat pumps.
The long term advantages of upgrades like these are significant, from lowering and reducing your carbon footprint to increasing your property’s value.
Budget friendly energy efficiency tricks.
Thick curtains or blinds to retain heat.
A hot water cylinder jacket to insulate your tank.
Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) for room-by-room temperature control.
Smart thermostats for efficient heating management.
Understanding your EPC is the first step towards a more energy efficient and sustainable home. Even small changes can make a difference. For even more ways to boost your property’s EPC rating, read our top energy saving tips.
Energy Performance Certificate FAQs.
What does EPC Rating C mean?
What can I expect in a Domestic Energy Assessment?
Are there any exemptions from needing an EPC?
How do I get an EPC energy certificate?
1 https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/guide-to-energy-performance-certificates-epcs/