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Glossary

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

By Home Energy Quotes · Updated March 2026

A document rating a property's energy efficiency from A to G

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). EPCs are required when selling or renting a property in England Wales and Scotland.

Where it wins

  • Legal requirement gives buyers and tenants clear efficiency info
  • Includes recommendations for improving the rating
  • Valid for 10 years reducing repeat costs
  • Publicly searchable on the national register

Where it struggles

  • Rating based on modelled not actual energy use
  • Quality depends on the assessor's thoroughness
  • Improvement recommendations can be generic
  • Does not account for renewable energy tariffs or smart tech

How it works

01

A qualified energy assessor visits and surveys the property

02

Assessor inputs data into approved SAP calculation software

03

Report generated showing current and potential EPC rating

04

Certificate valid for 10 years and lodged on the national register

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): common questions

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
A document rating a property’s energy efficiency from A to G
How does an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) work?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). EPCs are required when selling or renting a property in England Wales and Scotland.

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