Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)
The following is useful information about Energy Performance Certificates (EPC). How to contact us in relation to EPCs can be found at the bottom of this page. If you have a fixed penalty notice to pay, please click here.
What is an energy performance certificate?
An EPC is an assessment of the energy efficiency of the property. It takes into consideration the construction, type of dwelling and relevant fittings e.g. heating systems, insulation or double glazing. It provides an environmental impact rating based on the amount on carbon dioxide released into the environment by the dwelling. The rating of the certificate ranges from A high efficiency to G very poor efficiency.
When is an EPC required?
An EPC is required to be produced when a building is built, rented or sold.
Who is responsible for producing an EPC?
The person who is required to produce the EPC changes depending on the circumstances. They normally are:
- a builder if the property is being constructed
- an owner if the property is being sold
- a landlord if the property is being rented.
These people should provide them to the relevant enforcing officer or the prospective buyer or tenant.
Do I need an EPC for every flat or room if my building is split into a number of dwellings?
If the accommodation is designed or altered to be used separately for residential purposes then you may need an EPC for each dwelling. If the accommodation has its own entrance, facilities and heating system then an EPC will be required. If the accommodation has communal facilities such as a shared bathroom or kitchen then an EPC for the building as a whole will be sufficient.
How can I arrange for an EPC assessment to be carried out?
EPCs can only be provided by an accredited energy assessor, a list of assessors can be found on the EPC register. The contact details for the assessors are available on the website for you to make an appointment; there is a cost for this service which will be confirmed at the time of making an appointment.
How do I know whether my property already has an EPC?
The EPC register has details of all registered EPCs. All EPCs need to be registered and a helpdesk is provided on the website.
How can I improve the energy efficiency of my property?
An EPC assessor will provide a recommendation report. This will include suggestions on how to improve the energy efficiency. If you decide to make these improvements, it is advisable to get an updated EPC.
How long does and EPC last for?
An EPC lasts for up to 10 years, however if energy efficiency improvements are made new EPC should be obtained.
When do I need to provide an EPC?
A copy of an EPC should be provided to the following people:
- a prospective buyer
- a new tenant
- a trading standards officer
If an EPC is requested by a trading standards officer this must be provided within 7 days.
What checks are carried out by trading standards?
A trading standards officer will check that any EPC is registered on the EPC register, the officer will also check the EPC has been issued by an accredited energy assessor.
What are the penalties for not providing a valid or genuine EPC?
If a request for an EPC is made and cannot be provided within 7 days of request, a fixed penalty notice of £200 could be issued. This also applies if EPCs have not been registered or been issued by an accredited energy assessor. Please note, even after an FPN has been issued, further penalties could be incurred if the requested information is not provided.
More information
Contact the EPC register if you have further questions about your EPC. Your assessor may also be able to answer any additional questions you may have.
If you want advice on EPC enforcement please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06.