What is an EPC? Complete Guide to Energy Performance Certificates
Everything you need to know about EPCs - what they are, when you need one, and how to get the best rating for your property.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that shows how energy efficient a property is. It rates the property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and provides an estimate of energy costs along with recommendations for improvements.
EPCs were introduced in England and Wales in 2007 as part of Home Information Packs, and became a standalone legal requirement in 2008. They are produced by qualified Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs) for homes or Non-Domestic Energy Assessors (NDEAs) for commercial properties.
When Do You Need an EPC?
Residential
- Selling a property
- Renting out a property
- New build completion
- After certain modifications
Commercial
- Selling commercial property
- Letting commercial property
- New commercial buildings
- MEES compliance checks
Understanding EPC Ratings
EPC ratings range from A (most efficient, 92-100 points) to G (least efficient, 1-20 points). The rating is based on the property's energy efficiency per square metre, calculated using standardised assumptions about usage.
| Rating | Score | What it Means |
|---|---|---|
| A | 92-100 | Excellent - very energy efficient |
| B | 81-91 | Very good efficiency |
| C | 69-80 | Good - above average |
| D | 55-68 | Average for UK homes |
| E | 39-54 | Below average - minimum for rentals |
| F | 21-38 | Poor - illegal to rent |
| G | 1-20 | Very poor - illegal to rent |
MEES Regulations for Landlords
Since 1 April 2023, all privately rented properties (domestic and commercial) in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of E or above unless a valid exemption is registered on the PRS Exemptions Register. Financial penalties for non-compliance are set out in the Regulations and calculated on rateable value and breach duration for non-domestic property (see Regulation 39 of the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015). See our MEES for Commercial Buildings guide for the June 2026 DESNZ update on the future EPC B target.
How to Improve Your EPC Rating
Common improvements that can boost your EPC rating include:
- Loft insulation - often the most cost-effective improvement
- Cavity wall insulation - significant impact on heat loss
- Boiler upgrade - modern condensing boilers are more efficient
- Double or triple glazing - reduces heat loss through windows
- LED lighting - low cost, easy improvement
- Heating controls - thermostats, TRVs, programmers
- Renewable energy - solar PV, heat pumps
EPC Costs and Validity
A domestic EPC typically costs between £60-£120 depending on property size and location. Commercial EPCs start from around £180 and can be significantly more for larger or complex buildings.
EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date of issue. You can use an existing valid EPC when selling or letting, though getting a new one may be worthwhile if you've made improvements.