Visit Consumer Rights to find out if your property currently has an EPC, or to arrange an appointment for an accessory to carry out an assessment, in order to get an EPC.
If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or planning to sell or rent out a property in the UK, getting an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) isn’t just a box to tick, it’s a legal requirement. More importantly, it’s a useful tool that helps you understand how energy-efficient your home is, what it’s costing you in bills, and what you can do to improve it.
What Is an EPC and Why Does It Matter?
An EPC rates your property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient). It tells you:
- How much your home typically costs to heat and light
- Where heat might be escaping or energy is being wasted
- What improvements could reduce those costs
It’s legally required whenever you build, sell, or rent out a property in England and Wales. In Scotland, EPCs are still strongly encouraged, and there’s growing discussion about making them mandatory under future legislation.
Who Can Issue an EPC?
Only a qualified energy assessor can produce an EPC. For homes, this means a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA); for commercial buildings, you’ll need a Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA).
Consumer Rights can help you connect with a trusted, qualified assessor.
Further Reading: What is a Retrofit Assessor and a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA)?
What Happens During the Assessment?
The assessment is straightforward and non-invasive. Here’s what to expect:
- The assessor visits your property (usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour).
- They look at things like insulation, windows, heating systems, lighting, and any renewable energy tech you may have (like solar panels).
- They take photos and measurements to build a complete picture of the home’s efficiency.
What’s Included in the Certificate?
Once the assessment is complete, the assessor will produce your EPC, which is valid for 10 years. It includes:
- Your property’s energy efficiency rating (A to G)
- Estimated energy use and costs
- Suggestions for improvements (e.g. loft insulation, boiler upgrades, double glazing)
Where Can I Find My EPC?
Once created, your EPC is uploaded to the official government EPC Register
EPCs and Rental Properties
If you’re a landlord, having a valid EPC is a legal requirement before you can market your property to tenants. But it’s not just about compliance, the rating could also affect your ability to rent out the home legally.
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), landlords must ensure their rental properties have an EPC rating of E or higher. If it’s rated F or G, you will need to make improvements before letting it out.
EPCs and Selling Property
If you’re planning to sell your home, an EPC must be in place before the property goes on the market. Buyers will likely check the rating to get an idea of running costs and potential energy upgrades.
A higher rating can also increase your property’s appeal and its value.
Read More: A Guide to the ECO4 Scheme for Landlords
What Happens If You Don’t Get One?
Failing to have a valid EPC when required can result in fines of up to £5,000. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing EPC rules and issuing penalties for non-compliance.
When Should You Renew Your EPC?
An EPC lasts for 10 years, but if you’ve made major improvements—like adding insulation, installing a new boiler, or fitting solar panels—it’s worth getting an updated certificate. A better rating could make your property more attractive to buyers or renters.
Getting an EPC is a relatively quick, low-cost process that pays off in several ways. It helps you:
- Stay legally compliant
- Understand your property’s energy usage
- Identify cost-saving improvements
- Boost your home’s market value
Whether you’re renting, selling, or simply want to improve your energy efficiency, an EPC gives you a clearer picture of your home’s performance—and a roadmap for making it better.
If you’d like help booking a qualified assessor or checking your eligibility for energy efficiency grants (like ECO4), Consumer Rights is here to guide you every step of the way.
If you have a low EPC (D and below) you may be eligible for free government funded upgrades to increase your EPC.
Use our simple eligibility checker to find out.
People also asked...
Who is liable for obtaining an EPC?
It is the responsibility of the vendor or landlord offering the property for sale or rent to provide an EPC for the structure. A lease transfer would be deemed a sale, and the assignor would be required to provide an EPC.
Can an EPC be completed online?
By reserving your EPC online, you can receive rapid fixed prices and obtain your EPC quickly.
What if my landlord failed to provide me with an EPC?
If the property requires an EPC and the landlord has not provided you with a valid certificate, you can contact Trading Standards or your local authority’s building control department, which can force a landlord to complete an EPC and potentially levy fines.
By what date must an EPC be ordered?
The government passed a law mandating that anyone selling a home must have ordered or be in possession of an EPC at the time of listing. Your real estate agent must submit the EPC within 28 days of the sale’s start date.
Can a free EPC accreditation be obtained?
On the Government’s database, you can conduct a free EPC assessment inquiry to determine if your property has already been evaluated. Additionally, you can view the EPCs of other properties for free. If your home lacks an EPC or if it has expired, you can locate an EPC assessor online.
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:
Did this advice help?
Help us improve our website. Your feedback will help us give millions of people the information they need.