When do I need an EPC?

You usually need an EPC when you sell a property, rent it out, or build a new property. In most cases, the EPC should be available to prospective buyers or tenants at the point the property is marketed.

How much does an EPC cost?

EPC costs vary based on property size, location, and the type of assessment required. For an accurate price, request a quote or book your EPC assessment directly with Energy Plus: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/

What does the EPC rating mean (A–G)?

The EPC rating shows overall energy efficiency: A is the most efficient (typically lower running costs and emissions) and G is the least efficient. The certificate also includes an environmental impact rating and recommended improvements to help raise the score.

What information is included in an EPC?

An EPC usually includes the property’s current and potential energy rating, estimated energy costs, carbon emissions information, and recommended measures (such as insulation or heating upgrades) that could improve efficiency and reduce bills.

What is assessed during an EPC survey?

An assessor typically reviews key features that affect energy performance, such as insulation levels, heating and hot water systems, glazing type, lighting, and property construction. Measurements and observations are used to generate the EPC rating and recommendations.

Can I improve my EPC rating and reduce energy bills?

Yes. Common ways to improve an EPC rating include upgrading loft or wall insulation, improving glazing, replacing inefficient boilers, adding heating controls, switching to low-energy lighting, and considering renewables. An improved rating can help lower running costs and may make your property more attractive to buyers or tenants.

Do landlords need a minimum EPC rating?

In many cases, rental properties in the UK must meet minimum energy efficiency standards. Requirements can change and can depend on property and tenancy type, so it’s important to check current regulations. If you’re unsure, Energy Plus can help you understand what your EPC means and what improvements may be needed: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/

How do I book an EPC with Energy Plus?

You can arrange an EPC assessment by visiting Energy Plus and booking online or requesting a quote. Start here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/

EPC explained: what your rating means & how to improve it

Q: What is an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)?

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) shows how energy efficient a property is. It gives an energy rating (typically A to G), indicates estimated energy costs, and recommends improvements that could reduce bills and improve the rating. EPCs are commonly required when selling or renting a property in the UK.

Q: How long does an EPC last?

An EPC typically lasts 10 years from the date it is issued, unless you make major changes and choose to commission a new EPC earlier.

Understand Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in the UK, what impacts your A–G score, and the most effective upgrades for your home. Then compare whole-of-market energy deals with EnergyPlus to help keep running costs down.

Learn what an EPC is, how it’s calculated, and how long it lasts
See the biggest “quick win” improvements (insulation, heating controls, glazing)
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What is an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that shows how energy efficient a UK home is. It gives your property:

An EPC rating from A to G (A = most efficient, G = least efficient)
Typical energy cost estimates and environmental impact information
Recommended improvements and the potential rating after upgrades

EPCs are widely used in the UK property market (for example, when selling or letting). Even if you’re not moving, your EPC is a practical starting point for planning upgrades like insulation or heating controls—and for understanding why your energy bills might be higher than expected.

Tip: If you already have an EPC, look at the “Recommended measures” section and focus on changes that improve comfort first (draft-proofing, insulation), then efficiency (controls, boiler or heat pump).

Compare whole-of-market energy deals

Your EPC helps explain why your home uses energy; comparing tariffs helps you manage what you pay. Complete the form to compare home energy deals.

Why EPCs matter for UK homeowners

Lower running costs

The EPC highlights where your home loses heat—often loft insulation, wall insulation and draughts—so you can prioritise upgrades that reduce energy use.

Comfort & health

Better insulation and heating controls can reduce cold spots, damp and condensation. That can make rooms easier to heat and more comfortable day to day.

Decisions when selling

Buyers and tenants increasingly look at EPC ratings. Improving efficiency can strengthen your home’s appeal and reduce objections about future bills.

EPC ratings: A–G, what’s “good” and what’s typical?

An EPC uses a points-based assessment to place your home into a band from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The band is shown clearly on the certificate, alongside potential improvements and the estimated impact on running costs.

EPC band	What it generally indicates	Common features
A–B	Very efficient homes with low heat loss	High levels of insulation, good airtightness, efficient heating, sometimes solar PV
C	Efficient by mainstream standards	Modern boiler, insulated loft, some wall insulation, decent controls
D	Middle-of-the-road for older stock	Partial insulation, older controls, some draughts
E–F	Less efficient; higher heat loss and costs	Little insulation, older boiler/heating, single glazing, uninsulated walls
G	Least efficient properties	Very low insulation, inefficient heating, significant draughts/heat loss

Good to know: A “good EPC rating” depends on your home’s age and construction. Many solid-wall properties (common across the UK) start lower and need specific measures like internal/external wall insulation to make bigger jumps.

How to improve your EPC rating (practical UK checklist)

Most EPC improvements fall into three areas: reduce heat loss, control heating better, and use more efficient systems. The best route is often “fabric first”—insulation and draught reduction—before upgrading heating.

Start with insulation: check loft insulation depth, identify cavity walls, and address obvious gaps/draughts.
Optimise heating controls: programmable thermostat, TRVs on radiators, zoned heating where possible.
Review your boiler/heating system: servicing, balancing radiators, or replacing older boilers when appropriate.
Consider low-carbon upgrades: heat pumps, solar PV, and better hot water cylinder insulation (where relevant).
Keep evidence: receipts/specs can help if you’re reassessed and the assessor needs confirmation of measures.

High-impact upgrades (what assessors typically look for)

Loft insulation (where accessible) and sealing loft hatches
Cavity wall insulation (if suitable) or solid wall insulation (internal/external)
Double glazing and reduced draughts around frames/doors
Boiler upgrade (where older/inefficient) and modern controls
LED lighting throughout (quick, low cost)
Hot water cylinder jacket and pipe insulation

Not sure where to begin? Use your EPC’s “Recommended measures” list, then compare energy tariffs to make sure you’re not overpaying while you plan improvements.

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EPC assessment: cost, validity and how long it takes

How long does an EPC last?

An EPC is typically valid for 10 years. If you make improvements, you can get a new EPC sooner to reflect the changes.

How long is the visit?

Many assessments take 30–60 minutes depending on property size and complexity. The assessor will measure and check key features (insulation, heating, glazing).

What does an EPC cost?

Prices vary by location and property type. If you’re booking, ask what’s included and when you’ll receive the certificate after the visit.

While you’re improving efficiency: your tariff still matters. Comparing energy deals can reduce costs straight away, even before you carry out upgrades.

Common EPC mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Assuming an EPC is the same as a full survey

An EPC focuses on energy efficiency, not structural condition. Use it for energy planning, but consider a survey for building issues.

Upgrading heating before reducing heat loss

Insulation and draught-proofing usually improve comfort immediately and may allow smaller, more efficient heating solutions later.

Not keeping evidence of improvements

If upgrades aren’t obvious (e.g., cavity wall insulation), paperwork can help your assessor record them correctly.

Focusing only on the letter, not the actions

The best value comes from using the recommendations list to plan staged improvements that fit your budget and home type.

EPC explained: FAQs

How do I find my current EPC?

If your home has had an EPC lodged previously (often when sold or let), you may be able to locate it using the government’s EPC register by searching your address. If no EPC exists or it has expired, you’ll need a new assessment.

Does an EPC take my energy tariff into account?

Not directly. EPCs are designed to compare the efficiency of homes, so they use standard assumptions. Your actual bills depend on your tariff, usage patterns and household size—this is why comparing energy deals can still make a meaningful difference.

What affects an EPC rating the most?

Insulation levels (loft, walls, floors)
Heating system efficiency and controls
Windows and glazing type
Air tightness/draughts
Low-carbon generation such as solar PV (where installed)

Can I improve my EPC without major building work?

Often, yes. Some common “lighter touch” options include:

Increasing loft insulation (if accessible)
Improving heating controls (thermostat/TRVs/programmer)
LED lighting
Hot water cylinder jacket and pipe insulation
Draught-proofing around doors/windows

Will improving my EPC definitely lower my bills?

Efficiency improvements typically reduce the energy required to heat your home, but your final bill still depends on your tariff and usage. A sensible approach is to improve the home and compare whole-of-market tariffs regularly.

Is an EPC required for all homes?

EPC rules depend on the situation (for example, selling or letting). If you’re unsure what applies to your circumstances, check the latest official guidance. This guide is focused on understanding EPCs and making home energy improvements.

Want immediate savings while you plan improvements?

Even if your EPC upgrades are months away, you can still reduce your outgoings by switching to a better tariff.

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Whole-of-market comparison: EnergyPlus helps you compare available home energy options in one place, so you can make a confident choice based on price and fit.

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Updated on 3 Feb 2026