Plain English Guide
What is an EPC?
Everything you need to know about Energy Performance Certificates, what the ratings mean, and how to improve your property's energy efficiency.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that shows how energy efficient a property is. It rates buildings on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), similar to the labels you see on household appliances.
Every property in England and Wales that is sold, rented, or built must have a valid EPC. The certificate includes information about a property's energy use, typical energy costs, and recommendations for how to reduce energy consumption and save money.
When do you need an EPC?
- Selling a property – You must have a valid EPC before marketing your property
- Renting a property – Landlords must provide an EPC to tenants, with a minimum rating of E
- Building a new property – Required upon completion
- Making certain modifications – Major renovations may require a new assessment
EPC Ratings Explained
EPC ratings range from A to G, based on the property's SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) score out of 100.
Band A (92-100)
Highest efficiency. Very low energy costs and carbon emissions.
Band B (81-91)
Very efficient. Modern new-builds often achieve this rating.
Band C (69-80)
Efficient. The target for rental properties by 2030.
Band D (55-68)
Average efficiency. The most common rating in the UK.
Band E (39-54)
Below average. The current minimum for rental properties.
Band F (21-38)
Poor efficiency. High energy bills and carbon footprint.
Band G (1-20)
Lowest efficiency. Urgent improvements recommended.
Reading Your EPC Certificate
Your EPC contains several key sections:
Current and Potential Ratings
The certificate shows two ratings: your current rating (how efficient the property is now) and your potential rating (how efficient it could be with improvements). The gap between these shows how much room for improvement exists.
Estimated Energy Costs
You'll see estimated annual costs for lighting, heating, and hot water, along with potential savings if you make the recommended improvements.
Recommendations
The EPC lists recommended improvements with indicative costs and potential savings. These are ranked by cost-effectiveness to help you prioritise upgrades.
Property Details
Information about your property's construction, heating system, insulation, and other features that affect its energy efficiency.
Why Your EPC Rating Matters
Legal Requirements
Landlords must currently achieve a minimum EPC rating of E to legally rent out their property. The government has proposed raising this to C by 2030, meaning many landlords will need to make improvements. See our detailed guide on EPC requirements for landlords.
Selling and Letting
Properties with better EPC ratings are increasingly attractive to buyers and tenants. A good rating can be a selling point, while a poor rating may need to be addressed before marketing.
Energy Costs
A more efficient property means lower energy bills. Moving from band D to band C could save hundreds of pounds per year on heating and electricity.
Environmental Impact
Buildings account for around 40% of the UK's carbon emissions. Improving your EPC rating reduces your property's carbon footprint and contributes to national climate goals.
How to Improve Your EPC Rating
Common improvements that can boost your rating include:
- Insulation – Loft, cavity wall, and floor insulation
- Heating upgrades – Modern condensing boilers or heat pumps
- Double or triple glazing – Reduces heat loss through windows
- LED lighting – A quick, low-cost improvement
- Smart controls – Thermostats and TRVs for better heating management
- Renewable energy – Solar panels can significantly improve ratings
Want specific recommendations for your property? Check your EPC to see personalised improvement suggestions, or read our complete guide to 27 ways to improve your EPC rating.
How to Get an EPC
Follow these steps to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate for your property. The process typically costs £60-120 and takes 1-2 days from booking to receiving your certificate. For more details, see our guide on how to find, check, and download your EPC.
- 1
Find an accredited assessor
Search for a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) in your area through the official EPC Register or by searching online. Compare prices and availability.
- 2
Book the assessment
Contact your chosen assessor to schedule a visit. Most assessments can be booked within a few days. Ensure you will be home during the visit.
- 3
Prepare your property
Ensure the assessor can access your loft, boiler, and all rooms. Have any documentation about recent improvements ready, such as boiler installation certificates.
- 4
Assessment visit
The assessor will spend 45-60 minutes examining your property, noting insulation, heating systems, glazing, and lighting. They may take photographs.
- 5
Receive your EPC
Within 24-48 hours, your EPC will be lodged on the official register. You can then access and download it from the EPC Register website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an EPC valid for?
An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date it was issued. After this, you will need a new assessment if you want to sell or rent your property.
How much does an EPC cost?
An EPC typically costs between £60 and £120, depending on the size and location of your property. The assessment usually takes 45-60 minutes.
Who can produce an EPC?
EPCs must be produced by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). You can find registered assessors through the official EPC Register.
What happens during an EPC assessment?
The assessor will examine your property, including insulation, heating systems, windows, and lighting. They may need access to your loft and boiler. The assessment typically takes under an hour.
Explore EPC Data & Guides
Browse EPC statistics by location, check your property, or explore our in-depth guides on improving your energy efficiency.
Browse by Location
Explore EPC statistics for local authorities, postcode districts, and sectors across England and Wales.
Check Your Property
Enter your postcode to find your property's EPC and see personalised improvement recommendations.
27 Ways to Improve Your Rating
Discover common EPC improvements, costs, and potential savings for different upgrade options.
How to Find Your EPC
Step-by-step guide to finding, checking, and downloading your EPC certificate online.
EPC Rules for Landlords
Current requirements, 2030 deadlines, exemptions, and what landlords need to know.
New Boiler Costs UK
Complete guide to boiler replacement costs, grants, and how a new boiler affects your EPC.
Check Your Property's EPC
Enter your postcode to find your EPC rating and get personalised recommendations for improving your property's energy efficiency.