Energy Performance Certificate? (2025 Costs & How-To Guide)

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and provides estimated running costs and improvement recommendations. Required when selling, renting, or building, it helps buyers and tenants understand energy use and savings. A qualified assessor inspects insulation, heating, glazing, and ventilation to determine the rating.

Key Takeaways:

An EPC rates energy efficiency, estimates costs, and suggests improvements.
It is required by law when selling, renting, or building a property in the UK.
Book a qualified assessor for £60-£70, based on property size.

MENU CLOSED
OPEN MENU

What Is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property’s energy efficiency from A to G and suggests improvements. Issued by an accredited assessor, it examines insulation, heating, and glazing. EPCs are legally required for selling, renting, or building a home, helping reduce energy costs and improve property appeal.

This is what an Energy Performance Certificate looks like:

What Does an EPC Check?

An EPC assessment examines a property’s insulation, heating system, ventilation, and overall energy use. The assessor checks for draughts, double or triple glazing, and lighting efficiency, as well as how well the home retains heat. These factors determine the energy rating and highlight areas for improvement to reduce energy costs.

What is an EPC Rating?

An EPC rating ranks a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Higher ratings mean lower energy costs and better environmental impact, while lower ratings suggest potential improvements. A strong EPC score can increase a property’s resale value and attract more buyers or tenants.

Below is an EPC rating chart with the scores and ratings for every energy efficiency band.

EPC Rating	Score
A (most efficient)	92 and above
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

How to Get an Energy Performance Certificate

Getting an EPC is a simple process, but it's important to use a qualified assessor to ensure accuracy. Here’s how to get one:

Find an accredited EPC assessor – Use the UK government’s official database to ensure they are qualified.
Book an appointment – Schedule a visit at a convenient time for the assessment.
Home inspection – The assessor evaluates insulation, heating, glazing, and ventilation.
Receive your EPC report – Your certificate, including the rating and recommendations, is typically issued within a few days.

This certificate is legally required when selling, renting, or building a home and helps buyers or tenants understand the property's energy efficiency.

How Long Does an EPC Last?

An EPC is valid for 10 years, regardless of how many times the property is sold or rented. However, if you’ve made major energy improvements—such as upgrading insulation, installing a new boiler, or adding solar panels—you may want to get a new EPC to reflect the improved rating and increase your property’s appeal.

Related Read: Is my house worth more with an EPC?

How to Check Your EPC Rating?

You can check your current EPC rating online using the UK EPC Register. Simply enter your property’s postcode, select your address, and view the latest certificate. If your property doesn’t appear, it may not have an EPC, meaning you’ll need to book an assessment before selling or renting.

How Much Does an Energy Performance Certificate Cost?

The cost of an EPC varies based on property size and location, but on average, it ranges from £60 to £70. Larger homes and new-build properties typically require more detailed assessments, leading to higher fees. Different property types, such as terraced houses, flats, or detached homes, may also impact EPC costs and ratings.

Who Pays for an EPC?

Home sellers – Must obtain and pay for an EPC before listing the property for sale.
Landlords – Required to provide an EPC to potential tenants before renting out a property.
Builders – Must supply an EPC for new-build homes upon completion.

Is an EPC a Legal Requirement?

Yes, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is legally required when selling, renting, or building a home in the UK. Without one, you cannot market a property, and failing to comply can result in fines.

EPC Rules for Landlords:

Rental properties must have a minimum EPC rating of E.
Landlords cannot legally rent homes rated F or G unless they qualify for an exemption.
Penalties of up to £5,000 apply for non-compliance.

Exemptions & Special Rules:

Listed buildings may be exempt if energy improvements would alter their character.
In Scotland, EPCs must be displayed inside the property, typically near the boiler or meter cupboard.

Checking your EPC status early ensures compliance and avoids delays when selling or renting a property.

Expert advice from our property expert Paul:

"We’ve seen time and time again how EPC ratings influence buyer decisions. A well-rated home is easier to sell, while properties with lower ratings often face longer selling times or reduced offers. Some buyers are even required to meet certain energy efficiency criteria when applying for a mortgage, which can limit their options for lower-rated homes."

"At Housebuyers4u, our buying team understands these challenges. That’s why we offer a quick and guaranteed sale, no matter the EPC rating—helping sellers move on without the hassle of costly upgrades or long waits on the open market."

How Can I Improve My Home’s EPC Rating?

Boosting your EPC rating can lower energy bills, make your home more attractive to buyers, and even increase property value. Here’s how you can improve your score.

Ways to Increase Your Energy Score

Upgrade insulation – Loft, cavity wall, and floor insulation help retain heat.
Switch to energy-efficient lighting – LED bulbs reduce energy use and last longer.
Improve heating systems – Modern boilers, smart thermostats, and underfloor heating can boost efficiency.
Install double or triple glazing – Better windows reduce heat loss and improve comfort.
Consider renewable energy – Solar panels or heat pumps can significantly improve your EPC rating.

How Much Can Energy-Efficiency Improvements Cost?

According to a recent study by Nationwide Building Society, the average cost to improve a property's energy efficiency to band C is approximately £8,100. However, for properties rated F or G, the cost is considerably higher, averaging around £25,800.

The cost of improving energy efficiency depends on the size of your home and the type of upgrade:

Loft insulation – £300–£500
Cavity wall insulation – £800–£1,500
New energy-efficient boiler – £2,000–£4,000
Solar panels – £5,000–£8,000
Double glazing – £3,000–£7,000

While some upgrades require a larger upfront cost, they can lead to significant long-term savings on energy bills and increase your home’s appeal to buyers.

Sell Your Home Fast Without EPC Worries with Housebuyers4u

Improving your EPC rating can make your home more energy-efficient and attractive to buyers, but if you're looking for a quick sale without the hassle of upgrades, Housebuyers4u can help.

We buy any home in any condition, so you don’t need to worry about costly improvements, energy ratings, or dealing with estate agents. Get in touch with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

1Is it worth getting an Energy Performance Certificate?

Yes, an EPC is legally required when selling or renting a property, but it’s also useful for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and lower bills. It provides clear recommendations on upgrades that can make your home cheaper to run and more attractive to buyers.

2How long does an EPC inspection take?

An EPC inspection usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the property. The assessor will check insulation, heating, glazing, and ventilation before providing a detailed energy efficiency rating.

3Can I do my own EPC certificate?

No, only accredited energy assessors can issue an EPC. You must hire a qualified professional to inspect your home and generate the certificate, which is then registered on the official government database.

4Can an EPC rating go down?

Yes, if you remove energy-efficient features like insulation or replace a modern boiler with an older one, your EPC score can decrease. Changes in assessment criteria over time may also impact ratings on older certificates.

5Can an electrician do an EPC certificate?

No, unless they are also a qualified EPC assessor. EPCs cover insulation, heating systems, and energy efficiency, so only professionals trained in full home energy assessments can legally issue one.

6What’s the average EPC rating in the UK?

The average EPC rating for homes in England and Wales is D (score of 60). Newer properties, particularly those built after 2012, tend to have higher ratings (B or C) due to better insulation and modern heating systems.

Sell Your Share of Freehold Fast – Get a Cash Offer Today!

Get Your Free Cash Offer

Comments are closed.