What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of a property and its carbon emissions, and suggests ways to improve its energy efficiency. Since October 2008, all homes sold or rented out require an EPC, and the energy ratings must be displayed on any written Property Particulars

I am looking to sell my property - will I need an EPC?

Yes. Under new regulations introduced in May 2010, you will need to have commissioned, but not necessarily received, an EPC before marketing can start. The law also requires all estate agents to ensure that an EPC is in place or has been commissioned, before they start marketing. The energy ratings must also be displayed on their written Property Particulars.

What do you mean by ‘commissioned an EPC’?

This means that you or your estate agent must have instructed an accredited Energy Assessor to carry out an energy performance assessment and produce an EPC, and enclosed the payment for the EPC or an undertaking to pay for it.

If you decide to organise the EPC yourself, your estate agent will need to receive the EPC itself, or evidence that the EPC has been commissioned, as explained above.

Are there any exemptions from the need to have an EPC?

An EPC is required when a building is constructed, rented or sold. A building will need an EPC if it has a roof and walls and has heating, air conditioning or mechanical ventilation. A garden shed, garage or old barn would not need an EPC if it doesn’t use energy to heat it up or cool it down.

The following buildings are always exempt:

• Place of worship
• Temporary building that will be used for less than two years
• Standalone buildings with total useful floor area of less than 50 metres squared that aren’t used to provide living accommodation for a single household

What is the penalty for not providing an EPC?

There is a fixed penalty of £200, which will be enforced by Trading Standards. To avoid having to pay a penalty fee, we recommend you instruct us to arrange an energy assessment on your behalf.

How are emissions and energy use measured in an EPC?

EPCs carry ratings that compare the current energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions with potential emissions that a property could achieve. Potential figures are calculated by estimating what the energy efficiency and emissions would be, if energy saving measures were put in place.

The ratings measure the energy and carbon emission efficiency of a property using a grade from A to G. An A rating is the most efficient, while G is the least efficient. The average efficiency grade to date is D. All homes are measured using the same calculations, so you can compare the energy efficiency of different properties.

What recommendations will an EPC contain?

An EPC will provide a detailed report on the property, showing what can be done to help reduce the amount of energy used, and the carbon dioxide emitted. It will include:

• Summary of the key elements in the property that have an impact on its performance rating, such as windows, heating systems and controls
• Suggested improvements, like fitting loft insulation
• Possible cost savings per year, if the improvements were made
• How the recommendations would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property

How long is an EPC valid for?

10 years. However, if a newer EPC has been produced, the newer EPC must be used.

If you have any questions, please feel free to request a call back or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it