On average, an EPC inspection takes between 45 and 60 minutes. An energy assessor evaluates the property’s energy efficiency by looking at insulation, heating systems, and windows during an EPC assessment.
They collect data and use specialised software to generate the EPC rating, which contains information about the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of a property.
This post will explain everything you need to know about how long an EPC takes to conduct.
What may affect the time an EPC assessment takes?
Many factors affect how much time a domestic energy assessor will need at the property to complete the survey, but the primary ones are often the overall size of the property. This is because every room must be measured and evaluated, so a larger property will require a longer survey overall.
The heat loss perimeter of the property, or how much wall space is exposed to the open air is what energy assessors are most interested in.
Because a larger property has more heat loss perimeter than a mid-terraced home, which may have minimal heat loss perimeter, larger detached houses frequently receive a somewhat lower rating.
What if my home is old?
The time it takes to conduct a survey also depends on whether the property has undergone structural changes throughout its existence. Any additions or adjustments made later than the assessor must handle the primary construction as independent entities.
Because extentions may have been constructed many years after the original home was built, various building codes from that era were probably utilised. Therefore, these things need to be treated independently, which extends the time required at the site.
New regulations coming into affect in 2025
Currently, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for rented properties are an EPC rating of at least E. The adjustments are to ensure homes are more energy-efficient and to reduce carbon waste, progressing towards the government’s net-zero targets.
In what ways can I anticipate new EPC requirements?
Home improvements do not come cheap. Increasing your EPC rating from D to C may, in fact, exceed £6,100 in expenses. Understanding the effective methods to enhance EPC rating is crucial for individuals seeking to maintain adherence to the recently implemented regulations.
Loft insulation, double glazing, and LED light bulbs are minor improvements that can increase a home’s energy efficiency and appeal to potential purchasers or tenants.
By utilising the ECO4 Scheme or the Great British Insulation Scheme, a substantial energy efficiency transformation of your property could be accomplished for minimal to no additional cost.
More than 2.4 million households in the United Kingdom have already upgraded their EPC certification via the ECO4 Scheme by installing solar panels, insulation, and even more recent boilers.
Check your EPC Rating
Final Thoughts
Typically, an EPC assessment lasts between 45 minutes and two hours. Complexity, property size, and accessibility can all have an effect on the required time.
Professional evaluators guarantee precision while maintaining efficiency. A timely EPC evaluation is essential for real estate transactions and energy efficiency enhancements.
People also asked...
How long can a house be marketed without an EPC?
A property can legally be marketed without an EPC for up to 7 days after it’s first listed. However, the seller or landlord must have ordered the EPC before marketing begins. If the EPC is not available after 7 days, an extension of up to 21 days may be granted if there’s a valid reason.
Can a transaction occur without an EPC?
No, an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) must be made available to the buyer or tenant before contracts are exchanged (for sales) or before a tenancy agreement is signed. It’s a legal requirement under UK regulations. Proceeding without it could lead to fines.
Can a home with a failing EPC be sold?
Yes, you can sell a home with a low EPC rating (such as F or G), but buyers will be able to see the rating and may use it as leverage in negotiations. The EPC is for information only in sales, there’s currently no legal requirement to upgrade the rating before selling (unlike with rental properties).
Can I sell a property if the EPC has expired?
No, you should not market or sell a property with an expired EPC. EPCs are valid for 10 years, and you’ll need to commission a new one if the existing certificate is no longer valid. You must have a valid EPC in place when marketing begins.
Are estate agents responsible for arranging EPC's?
Estate agents are not legally responsible, but they often handle the EPC on behalf of the seller or landlord as part of their services. Ultimately, though, the seller or landlord is legally responsible for ensuring a valid EPC is in place when the property is listed.
Useful Resources
- UK Government – Energy Performance of Buildings Certificates: notes and definitions
- EPC Home – The History Of The EPC
- Historic England – Energy Performance Certificates
- Elmhurt Energy – EPC’s explained
- Department for communities & local government – A guide to energy performance certificates for the marketing, sale and let of dwellings
- Scottish Government – Energy Performance Certificates: introduction
- Scottish Government – Building Standards Division
- Scottish land and estates – Energy Efficient Scotland
- Scottish Government – The Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations
- Citizens Advice Scotland – The Estimated Costs of Improving the Energy Efficiency of Scotland’s homes
ECO4 Support Available:
- Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy – Energy Company Obligation
- Ofgem – Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Guidance: Delivery V1.1
- Ofgem – Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
- UK Government – Help from your energy supplier: the Energy Company Obligation
- Which? – Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
Other Support Available:
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