Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required when a property is constructed, sold or rented. It may also be required when applying for government funding for energy efficiency improvement measures or when remortgaging a property. 

An EPC provides information about a property's running costs, energy efficiency and environmental impact. It will take into consideration the type of property, its construction, insulation levels, the provision of heating and hot water, ventilation, lighting and renewable technologies.

The information is converted into an energy efficiency rating on a scale ‘A – G’. Properties with an ‘A’ rating have lower annual running costs, produce fewer carbon emmisions and are seen as more energy efficient than those with a ‘G’ rating. 

The average EPC rating for a residential property in England is ‘D’. 

EPCs also contain recommendations on how to improve the property's energy efficiency rating, showing typical installation costs and potential annual savings on heating bills.

An EPC is a lawful document, valid for 10 years.

Fines can be imposed if a valid EPC is not available when requested e.g. when marketing a property for sale or for rent.