What Is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that rates the energy efficiency of a building on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Think of it like the energy label on your fridge or washing machine — but for your entire property.
Every EPC includes two key ratings:
- Current energy rating — how efficient your property is right now
- Potential energy rating — what it could achieve with recommended improvements
The certificate also comes with a detailed recommendations report, outlining specific improvements you can make and how much they could save on your energy bills.
When Do You Need an EPC?
By law, you need a valid EPC whenever you:
- Sell a property — an EPC must be available to prospective buyers before marketing begins
- Rent out a property — landlords must provide an EPC to tenants and meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
- Build a new property — a new EPC is required upon completion
EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date of issue, so you don't need to renew one unless it's expired or you've made significant improvements and want a better rating.
What Does an EPC Assessment Involve?
A qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) will visit your property and carry out a non-invasive survey. They'll typically look at:
- Wall construction and insulation
- Roof and loft insulation
- Window glazing type
- Boiler type, age, and efficiency
- Heating controls
- Hot water system
- Lighting
- Any renewable energy sources (solar panels, etc.)
The visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the property size. Your EPC is then lodged on the government's official register and sent to you, usually within 24 hours.
How Much Does an EPC Cost?
EPC costs vary depending on the property size and your location. At Direct EPC, our prices start from just £35 for a standard residential property. We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
You can book your EPC online in under two minutes and choose a time slot that works for you.
Understanding EPC Ratings
The ratings break down as follows:
| Rating | SAP Points | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| A | 92–100 | Extremely efficient — lowest energy bills |
| B | 81–91 | Very efficient — typical of newer homes |
| C | 69–80 | Good efficiency — government target for all homes by 2035 |
| D | 55–68 | Average — most UK homes fall here |
| E | 39–54 | Below average — minimum for rented properties |
| F | 21–38 | Poor — cannot be legally rented without exemption |
| G | 1–20 | Very poor — urgent improvements needed |
How Can You Improve Your EPC Rating?
Common improvements that boost your rating include:
- Loft insulation — one of the cheapest and most effective upgrades
- Cavity wall insulation — can improve your rating by one or two bands
- Upgrading your boiler — modern condensing boilers are far more efficient
- Double or triple glazing — reduces heat loss through windows
- Smart heating controls — programmable thermostats and TRVs
- LED lighting — simple and inexpensive change
- Solar panels — can significantly boost your rating
Ready to Get Your EPC?
At Direct EPC, we make the process simple. Book online, choose your time slot, and one of our accredited assessors will visit your property. You'll have your certificate within 24 hours.
