What EPCs are

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows:

• how energy efficient a property is and how you can improve it
• how a property affects the climate

There are different EPCs for:

• domestic properties
• non-domestic properties 

For domestic properties, an EPC shows the property's:

• 'energy efficiency rating' and typical energy costs (but costs will vary with how each person uses energy)
• 'environmental impact rating' – how much the building affects the climate with CO2 emissions

For non-domestic properties, an EPC shows the property's:

• 'energy performance rating' – how much the building affects the environment with CO2 emissions

EPC ratings

EPC ratings go from A to G – with A as the best.

A property with an 'A' rating is more energy efficient than one with a 'G' rating. 

EPCs also give a 'potential' rating. This is the rate the property could be if you make suggested improvements.

Recommendations Report

A 'Recommendations Report' comes with an EPC.

This gives:

• more detailed information on the energy efficiency and climate impact of your property
• how to improve it
• possible cost of improvements

How long an EPC is valid for

An EPC is valid for for up to 10 years. If you get a new EPC before your current EPC expires, the new EPC replaces any older EPCs for your property.

Selling or renting a property

You must get an EPC when you sell a property or rent it to a new tenant.

EPCs also form part of a Home Report.

If you make changes to a property you should update the EPC as it could affect its rating.

Read more about your responsibilities if you're renting out a property.

Read more about updating an EPC.