An EPC, or Energy Performance Certificate as it stands for, is the guide that shows how efficiently a home uses energy. Would-be buyers or tenants then receive this as part of the information on a property so they can get an idea of the running costs and recommendations on how to improve the efficiency of the property. The EPC rates the building’s performance in terms of Energy use per square metre of floor area, energy efficiency based on fuel costs and environmental impact based on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
An EPC is required each time a property is put up for rent or sale. It’s part of the documentation that a landlord of seller must have to show anyone interested in their property. Some buildings may be exempt e.g. if they’re listed and cannot have upgrades. You can market your home as soon as you’ve ordered an Energy Performance Certificate, before the assessment has been carried out.
An EPC must be done by a registered assessor. It generally costs between £60 and £120 to get your property on the EPC register, depending on factors such as area and size of property.
An EPC is valid for 10 years. If your current EPC is coming to its end, it will remain valid for as long as your property is continuously on the market. You can check the national register of EPCs to find your property's previous certificates or view those in your area to make a comparison.
From April 2018, landlords will need to have a minimum efficiency rating of 'E' on a valid EPC for their property in order to rent it. There is a planned penalty for failing to meet this minimum requirement.
