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How to Get an EPC: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Getting an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for your home is easy and usually just takes a few days. This tutorial will show you exactly how to get an EPC certificate with as little trouble as possible, whether you’re selling, renting, or just want to know how energy-efficient your property.

What Is an EPC and When Do You Need One?

A legal document called an EPC rates the energy efficiency of your property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). You need an EPC in the UK every time you sell, rent, or build a house. The certificate is good for ten years, so you might already have one on file.

  • Step 1: See if you already have a valid EPC.
    Check the official EPC register to discover if your property already has a valid certificate before making a new appointment. The government’s EPC database lets you search by postcode. You can use your current EPC to sell or rent if it is less than 10 years old.
  • Step 2: Look for a qualified energy assessor
    You need to hire an EPC assessor who is certified and registered with an approved scheme in order to receive an EPC certificate.
  • For homes, you should look for a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) who is registered with groups like Elmhurst Energy, Stroma Certification, or Quidos. You can look up accreditation scheme registers online or use comparison sites that link you with local assessors.
  • For Commercial facilities: A Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) with special training for business facilities is needed for commercial properties. The technique is the same, although commercial assessments are usually more difficult and expensive.

Tips for Choosing an Assessor:

  • Compare quotes from at least three assessors—prices typically range from £60 to £120 for residential properties
  • Check their accreditation number and verify it with their certifying body
  • Read reviews or ask for recommendations from estate agents or letting agents
  • Ensure they can provide the certificate quickly if you're working to a deadline

Step 3: Book Your EPC Assessment

Once you’ve selected an assessor, booking is usually simple. Most assessors offer online booking or can arrange an appointment via phone or email. When you book an EPC assessor, you’ll need to provide:

  • Your property address
  • Property type (house, flat, commercial building)
  • Number of rooms and approximate size
  • Your preferred appointment time

The assessment itself typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for a standard residential property, though larger or commercial properties may take longer.

Step 4: Prepare for the Property Survey

To ensure a smooth assessment, prepare your property beforehand:

Documents to Have Ready:

  • Proof of any energy efficiency improvements (loft insulation receipts, new boiler installation certificates, double glazing guarantees)
  • Building plans or extensions documentation
  • Details of your heating system and hot water setup

Access Requirements:

Make sure the assessor can access all areas including the loft, basement, and external walls. They’ll need to measure rooms, inspect windows, examine the boiler, and check insulation levels.

What the Assessor Will Check:

  • Property dimensions and layout
  • Wall construction and insulation
  • Roof and loft insulation
  • Windows and glazing type
  • Heating and hot water systems
  • Lighting (type of bulbs used)
  • Renewable energy installations (solar panels, heat pumps)

You don’t need to be present during the entire assessment, but it’s helpful to be available to answer questions about your heating system and any improvements you’ve made.

Step 5: Receive Your EPC Certificate

After the survey, your assessor will process the data and lodge the certificate with the official register. You should receive your EPC within 48 hours, though many assessors provide it within 24 hours.

Your EPC Will Include:

  • An energy efficiency rating (A to G scale)
  • Estimated energy costs
  • Environmental impact rating
  • Recommendations for improving energy efficiency
  • Potential rating if improvements are made

The certificate is automatically uploaded to the government register and remains valid for 10 years. Your assessor should provide you with a copy, but anyone can view it online using your postcode.

key metric buyers and tenants

Understanding Your EPC Results

The energy efficiency rating is the most important number for buyers and renters. Properties with A-C scores are thought to be efficient, those with D-E ratings are average, and those with F-G ratings may need to be improved. The certificate also offers personalized suggestions, from minor fixes like putting in energy-efficient lighting to bigger changes like adding insulation to your walls or getting a new boiler.

How Much Does an EPC Cost?

Depending on where you live and how big your home is, the cost of a domestic EPC is usually between £60 and £120. Commercial EPCs cost more, starting at £200 and going up depending on how complicated the building is. Always get written quotes and make sure you know what’s included.

Making the EPC Process Simple

It doesn’t have to be hard to get an EPC certificate. You may finish the process quickly by picking a reliable assessor, getting your property ready, and knowing what to expect. With your EPC in hand, you’ll be following all the rules and have useful information on how well your property uses energy.
If you’re a homeowner getting ready to sell, a landlord getting ready to rent, or a company owner who needs to fulfill certain rules, these simple procedures can help you receive your EPC fast and without any extra worry.

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