What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official energy efficiency rating for a property, provided by an accredited domestic energy assessor. Introduced by the UK government in 2007, the EPC helps homeowners, landlords, buyers, and tenants understand how efficient a property is and how to improve it. In the UK, around 22% of carbon emissions come from homes through heating, lighting, and appliances — so an EPC check is essential for improving energy efficiency and lowering bills.
Whether you own a house, flat, or other domestic property, getting an accurate EPC from a local accredited EPC provider in Central London or elsewhere ensures you have a quality EPC service.
An EPC certificate consists of an assessment of the energy efficiency of the property. The property is attributed a rating which varies from A to G - the most efficient is A and the least efficient is G. The EPC inspection takes into account the building's age, type of fabric, thickness of the walls, levels of insulation, type of windows, lighting, heating system and its controls. The EPC survey does not take into account your appliances, such as washing machines, microwaves or any heater that is not fixed. The energy performance certificate lasts for 10 years, and all properties on the market for sale or rent require a valid EPC.
Why get an EPC?
A property with a high EPC rating is more energy-efficient, cheaper to run, and more attractive to buyers and tenants. When searching for a house or flat, you should always check the EPC before making an offer. You can usually get it from the estate agent or book a survey directly from an EPC supplier.
If you’re selling or renting, it’s a legal requirement to order an EPC before marketing your property. Book your EPC early to avoid delays.
How long does an EPC last?
An EPC is valid for 10 years. If you make improvements — such as upgrading insulation, installing double glazing, or fitting energy-efficient lighting — you should order a new EPC to reflect your improved energy rating.
How do I prepare for an EPC survey?
If there is any furniture or anything else limiting access to windows, heaters, the boiler or the loft, it’s best to clear them out of the way. You should also ensure that you have any paperwork that shows installation dates of relevant things suchs as double glazing, insulation or bolier installation. The energy assessor will not remove flooring or drill holes in your walls or floors, to inspect your insulation for example. The assessor usually only has measuring devices and recording tools - they do not bring ladders or other equipment to your place. They observe things that show the house’s age and condition and make assessments based on these.
EPC rating bands
- A (most efficient) – 92+
- B – 81 to 91
- C – 69 to 80
- D – 55 to 68
- E – 39 to 54
- F – 21 to 38
- G (least efficient) – 1 to 20
Who pays for the EPC?
- Home sellers: must provide an EPC to buyers.
- Landlords: must provide an EPC to tenants.
- Builders: must provide an EPC for new homes.
You can request an EPC now
Can I improve my EPC rating?
Yes. EPC improvement tips include:
- Installing better insulation
- Upgrading to energy-efficient heating
- Adding solar panels
- Replacing single glazing with double/triple glazing
Even small upgrades can improve your energy efficiency rating and lower bills. However, your EPC rating won’t officially change until you order a new EPC from an accredited EPC service provider.
If you’re selling or renting, it’s a legal requirement to order an EPC before marketing your property. Book your EPC early to avoid delays.
What does an EPC survey involve?
An EPC survey is carried out by a trained, Elmhurst accredited domestic energy assessor. Your assessor will inspect and photograph various energy-related parts of your house, such as windows, environmental controls, boiler and radiators.
They will then add their data into a software programme that calculates your Energy Performance Score. The assessor will check following:
- Insulation levels in walls and floors
- Window efficiency (double or triple glazing)
- Heating systems
- Energy-efficient lighting
- Potential draught sources
The assessor will then give your property an EPC rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with a score. The EPC provider will also give tailored recommendations to help improve your energy efficiency rating.
You’ll receive the score, as well as a report, on the property’s performance (along with advice) shortly after.