What Is an EPC and Why Do You Need One When Selling or Renting a Property?

If you’re selling or renting a property in the UK, you may have heard the term EPC.

An Energy Performance Certificate provides information about a property’s energy efficiency and gives it an energy efficiency rating from A to G.

For homeowners, landlords and property professionals, understanding when an EPC is required and how the process works can help prevent unnecessary delays.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate, commonly known as an EPC, is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property.

The certificate includes an energy efficiency rating from A to G, with A representing a more energy-efficient property and G representing a less energy-efficient property.

It also provides recommendations that may help improve the property’s energy performance.

An EPC can therefore give homeowners, buyers and tenants useful information about the property’s energy efficiency before making a property decision.

When Do You Need an EPC?

EPC requirements can apply when a property is being:

• Sold
• Rented
• Built
• Constructed or substantially changed in certain circumstances

If you’re preparing a property for sale or rental, it’s sensible to check whether a valid EPC is already available.

An EPC can also be important when marketing a property because energy performance information forms part of the information available to prospective buyers and tenants.

How Long Does an EPC Last?

An EPC is generally valid for 10 years, although you may choose or need to obtain a newer certificate in certain circumstances, particularly if the property has changed significantly.

If you’ve recently improved your property, such as upgrading insulation, heating or windows, it may be worth checking whether a new assessment would better reflect the property’s current condition.

What Happens During an EPC Assessment?

An EPC assessment isn’t simply completed online.

An accredited energy assessor needs to visit the property and collect information about the building.

Depending on the property, the assessor may look at areas such as:

• Heating systems
• Windows
• Insulation
• Walls
• Roof
• Lighting
• Hot water systems
• Property dimensions
• Energy-saving features

The information collected during the visit is then used to calculate the property’s energy performance rating.

Can You Get an EPC Remotely?

No.

The actual EPC assessment requires an appropriate assessor to inspect the property in person.

However, parts of the process can be handled remotely.

For example, you can usually:

• Make an appointment online
• Provide property information
• Confirm pricing
• Receive your certificate digitally

The physical assessment itself still requires an on-site visit.

What Does an EPC Rating Mean?

The EPC rating uses a scale from A to G.

Generally:

A – Very energy efficient
B – Energy efficient
C – Reasonably efficient
D – Average
E – Lower efficiency
F – Poor efficiency
G – Very poor efficiency

The certificate also provides recommendations that may help improve the property’s energy performance.

These recommendations can include measures such as improving insulation, upgrading heating systems or making other energy-efficiency improvements.

Why Does an EPC Matter When Selling a Property?

An EPC is more than just another property document.

It can give prospective buyers an indication of how energy efficient a property is and provide information about potential improvements.

Energy efficiency can also become an important consideration for buyers when comparing properties.

Having your EPC arranged early can therefore help you prepare your property before marketing begins.

Why Does an EPC Matter to Landlords?

For landlords, EPC requirements are particularly important because energy efficiency requirements can affect whether a property can legally be let.

If you’re a landlord preparing a property for a new tenancy, check that you have the appropriate and valid EPC and understand the current requirements that apply to your property.

Where a property has multiple units, requirements can also vary depending on the building and how the units are arranged.

How Can You Improve Your EPC Rating?

Your EPC includes recommendations for improving energy efficiency.

Depending on the property, possible improvements may include:

• Improving loft insulation
• Improving wall insulation
• Upgrading windows
• Improving heating systems
• Using more efficient lighting
• Improving hot water systems
• Reducing heat loss

Not every recommendation will be suitable for every property.

If you’re considering improvements, it’s sensible to understand the likely cost and potential benefit before starting work.

How Much Does an EPC Cost?

The cost of an EPC can vary depending on the property, its size and the service you choose.

London EPC providers currently advertise different pricing structures for different property sizes and turnaround requirements. For example, EPC Rate London lists domestic EPC prices by property size, while Urgent EPC offers standard and priority services.

For an accurate price, it’s best to provide the property’s details when requesting a quote.

What If You Need an EPC Quickly?

Property transactions don’t always follow a convenient schedule.

You may suddenly need an EPC because:

• A property is ready to go on the market
• A tenancy is starting
• A buyer or agent has requested updated information
• An existing certificate has expired
• You’re working towards a tight completion or letting deadline

Some London EPC providers offer same-day or priority appointments, with some services advertising certificates within a few hours of the inspection.

If your deadline is tight, ask the provider about their current availability and expected turnaround before booking.

EPC, Photography and Floor Plans: Preparing a Property for Market

An EPC is only one part of preparing a property for sale or rental.

A strong property listing can also benefit from:

Professional photography
High-quality images can help present your property effectively online.

Floor plans
A clear floor plan helps buyers and tenants understand the property’s layout.

Accurate property information
Clear descriptions and relevant property details help potential buyers understand what is being offered.

Property photography and floor-plan services are commonly offered alongside EPC services to help prepare properties for marketing.

EPC Checklist for Sellers and Landlords

Before marketing your property, consider the following:

☐ Check whether your property has a valid EPC
☐ Check the EPC rating
☐ Review the recommendations
☐ Arrange a new assessment if required
☐ Make sure the assessor can access the property
☐ Keep your EPC information available
☐ Consider relevant energy-efficiency improvements
☐ Arrange professional photography
☐ Arrange a floor plan
☐ Choose an estate agent

Find Property Services in One Place

Getting a property ready for sale or rental can involve several different services.

From finding an estate agent to arranging an EPC, photography and floor plans, getting organised early can help make the process smoother.

Find My Estate Agent helps property owners explore estate agents and related property services in London.

Whether you’re selling, renting or preparing a property for the market, start by finding the right professionals for your property.

Looking for an estate agent or property service? Start your search with Find My Estate Agent.