Energy Performance Certificate? (2026 Costs & How-To Guide)
Key Takeaways:
- An EPC rates your home’s energy efficiency from A to G and is valid for 10 years.
- You usually need an EPC before selling, renting or building a property.
- EPC costs vary, but homeowners should typically budget around £60 to £120.
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- What Is an Energy Performance Certificate?
- What Does an EPC Check?
- What is an EPC Rating?
- How to Get an Energy Performance Certificate
- How Much Does an Energy Performance Certificate Cost?
- Is an EPC a Legal Requirement?
- How Can I Improve My Home’s EPC Rating?
- Sell Your Home Fast Without EPC Worries
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate is a report that shows how energy efficient a property is. It gives the home a rating from A, the most efficient, to G, the least efficient, and includes recommendations to improve the rating and reduce typical energy costs.
This is what an Energy Performance Certificate looks like:
What Does an EPC Rating Mean?
An EPC rating ranks a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Higher ratings mean lower energy costs and a better environmental impact, while lower ratings suggest potential for improvement. 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 | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| A | 92 plus | Most energy efficient |
| B | 81 to 91 | Very energy efficient |
| C | 69 to 80 | Good energy efficiency |
| D | 55 to 68 | Average to below average |
| E | 39 to 54 | Lower energy efficiency |
| F | 21 to 38 | Poor energy efficiency |
| G | 1 to 20 | Least energy efficient |
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.
Related Read: What do surveyors check when valuing homes
How Long Does an EPC Last?
An EPC is valid for 10 years. If your property already has a valid EPC, you may not need a new one before selling or renting. However, if you have made improvements such as new insulation, a modern boiler, double glazing or solar panels, it may be worth getting a new EPC so the rating reflects the current condition of the home.
Related Read: Is my house worth more with an EPC?
How to Check Your EPC Rating?
You can check whether your property already has an EPC by using the official GOV.UK “Find an energy certificate” service. You can search by postcode, street name, town or certificate number.
What Does an EPC Assessor Check?
An EPC assessor usually looks at:
- Loft and wall insulation
- Heating system
- Hot water system
- Windows and glazing
- Lighting
- Ventilation
- Property size and construction type
- Any renewable energy systems
How Much Does an Energy Performance Certificate Cost?
An EPC usually costs around £60 to £120 in 2026, depending on your property size, location, assessor and how the booking is arranged. Larger home types or more complex properties may cost more
| Property type | Typical EPC cost |
|---|---|
| Small flat | Around £60 to £80 |
| Standard house | Around £70 to £100 |
| Larger home | Around £90 to £120 plus |
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 EPC is usually a legal requirement when selling, renting or building a property. For sellers, the EPC should be available when the property is marketed. For landlords, the property must meet minimum energy efficiency rules unless a valid exemption applies.
For privately rented homes in England and Wales, GOV.UK’s landlord guidance still refers to the minimum energy efficiency standard of EPC band E. The guidance was last updated in May 2026.
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.
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