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An energy performance certificate (EPC) provides information on a property’s energy efficiency and gives it a rating, from A (very efficient) to G (least efficient). This rating is used by potential buyers and tenants to gauge a home’s energy costs. The EPC also gives recommendations of potential improvements you can make to reduce energy consumption in your home, as well as summing up how much these changes could save on your energy bills.
How do I get a copy of my EPC?
Energy performance certificates are produced by accredited assessors. You can arrange one directly with an EPC provider in your local area by searching the EPC Register or they can be organised through estate or letting agents. Once you’ve chosen your provider, they’ll survey the property to produce a rating, considering things like double glazing, insulation, and the construction of the building.
How much does an EPC cost?
There’s no fixed cost for an EPC. Prices typically start at around £35 and can reach up to £120 depending on the property type, location and size.
If you’re renting or buying a house, your vendor or landlord must provide you with an EPC free of charge or they could face a £200 fine.
How long is an energy performance certificate valid for?
An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. The property you’re looking to buy or sell may already have a valid certificate, so it is worth checking old property listings or the EPC Register before arranging a new EPC survey.
How long does it take to get an EPC?
This will depend on the availability of the provider, but on average you should receive your EPC report within three working days of the survey being done.
The survey itself depends on things such as the size of the property, but it should only take about an hour.
How do I improve the energy rating of my home?
Your EPC will offer recommendations on reducing your home’s energy use, along with how much they’re likely to cost and an analysis of your savings after making those changes.
Some things that an energy performance survey might flag are:
Insulating your roof, loft, walls and floor to make your home more energy efficient.
Investing in double glazed windows and draught proofing to reduce heat loss and lower your energy bills.
Switching to low-energy light bulbs throughout your home – an affordable and cost-effective way to save money.
Installing solar panels to make savings in the long term.
If you decide to make your home more energy efficient and improve your property’s EPC rating, make sure you get your new survey score before putting your house on the market.
What is an environmental impact rating?
EPCs also evaluate a building’s impact on the environment, based on it's carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to global warming and climate change. As with your overall energy performance, you’ll get a potential rating for your property’s CO2 emissions if you implemented the recommended changes.
Doing all this for the first time? Get more useful tips from our first-time buyers guide. You can also find more information on the steps you need to follow when buying a house, and don’t forget our handy moving house checklist.
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