The Energy Performance Certificate for homes

What else does the certificate do?

EPCs are measured using the same calculations for all homes, so you can compare the energy efficiency of different properties.

Part of the EPC is a recommendation report which will list the potential rating that your home could achieve, if you made changes. The report lists improvements that you could carry out and how this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property.

You can use this information to:

• cut your fuel bills
• improve energy performance in your home
• help cut carbon emissions

Does everyone need an EPC?

The EPC is required by law when a building is constructed, sold or put up for rent.

So you will only need a certificate if you are:

• a homeowner – all sellers of homes need to ensure that they provide a Home Information Pack which includes an EPC for potential buyers
• a builder – an EPC needs to be provided to buyers of newly built properties from 6 April 2008
• a landlord – you will need to provide an EPC which will be valid for ten years, to prospective tenants, the first time you let or re-let your property after 1st October 2008

Even if you do not fall into the above category, you can still apply for and receive an EPC. To find out more about what an EPC contains and for more information on the Home Information Pack and how you can get one then follow the links below.

• Home Information Pack (opens new window)
• What an EPC for a home contains (opens new window)

How do you get an EPC?

EPCs can only be produced as a result of a survey by an ‘accredited’ Domestic Energy Assessor. They are used to collect standard information on the property including its size, how it is constructed and its hot water and heating systems. The information is then fed into a government approved software programme which produces the EPC. Order an EPC 

The certificate will also provide contact details for the Energy Savings Trust, who can help you find out whether you could be eligible for grants or discounts to help carry out these improvements to your home. It will also list simple ways that changes in behaviour can save you energy and money - without the need for any works.

How much will it cost?

The price of an Energy Performance Certificate is set by the accredited organisations which issue them. When you obtain a Home Information Pack, then the overall cost should include that of an EPC. If you apply for an EPC on its own then the cost for an average house is approximately £90. Our Fees

How long will it take to get one?

Obtaining an Energy Performance Certificate for an average sized home is likely to take the same time as that for a house valuation report which has to be prepared when a property is put up for sale. The exact time will vary from property to property. Accreditation schemes recommend to be carried out within 3 days and report issued shortly after (usually by the next day)

Making improvements

The recommendation report which will give you information about:

• suggested improvements (such as fitting loft insulation)
• the approximate cost
• possible cost savings per year if the improvements are made

You do not have to act on the recommendations contained in the recommendation report. However, if you do decide to do so, then it could make your property more attractive for sale or rent by making it more energy efficient. You will also contribute to cutting carbon emissions.

For more information on saving energy through effective insulation and heating as well as finding out more about eligibility for energy efficiency grants, follow the link below:

• Energy and water efficiency in your home (environment and greener living section)

Public buildings

Certain public buildings must have a Display Energy Certificate (DEC) which contains similar information as an EPC to enable visitors and users of the building to see its energy efficiency rating. Follow the link below for more information.

• Display Energy Certificates for public buildings (opens new window)

EPCs for business premises

From April 2008, owners of commercial buildings will also have to provide an Energy Performance Certificate when they buy, sell or let commercial premises.