Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) — UK Guide
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy-efficient a property is and provides recommendations to improve it. EPCs are commonly needed when selling, renting, or marketing a property and are used by homeowners, landlords, and businesses across the UK.
If you already know what you need, you can go straight to:
What is an EPC?
An EPC includes:
- A rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient)
- Estimated energy costs
- Typical energy use and emissions (where applicable)
- Recommended improvements (for example insulation, heating controls, glazing upgrades)
EPCs are produced by accredited assessors and lodged on the official register.
When do you legally need an EPC?
In most cases, an EPC is required when a property is:
- Sold
- Let / rented
- Marketed (the EPC should be available before advertising begins)
There are limited exceptions, and the rules can differ depending on property type and circumstance. If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll advise.
Book now: Request an EPC quote
How long does an EPC last?
An EPC is usually valid for 10 years. You can get a new EPC earlier if:
- You’ve made energy-efficiency improvements and want an updated rating
- You need a new certificate for a different purpose (for example compliance checks or updated marketing)
How to check an existing EPC (Find My EPC)
If you think your property already has an EPC, you can usually locate it using your address details.
Use our page to help you check what you already have and what it means:
EPC costs and what affects the price
EPC pricing varies depending on factors such as:
- Property type (flat, house, mixed-use, commercial)
- Size and complexity
- Whether the building is split into units
- Access and availability
For a fast, accurate quote, use:
Domestic EPCs (homes, rentals, sales)
A Domestic EPC typically applies to houses and flats. You’ll most commonly need one if you’re:
- Selling a property
- Renting out a property
- Marketing a property via an agent or online listing
Learn more here:
Commercial EPCs (shops, offices, industrial units)
A Commercial EPC is required for many non-domestic buildings such as:
- Shops and retail units
- Offices
- Warehouses and industrial units
- Some mixed-use buildings (depending on layout and usage)
Commercial EPCs can be more complex because they may involve different activity areas, zoning, and building services.
Learn more here:
Landlords, EPCs and MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards)
Landlords must be aware of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which set minimum EPC requirements for many rented properties.
Key points to understand:
- Many rental properties must meet a minimum EPC threshold (commonly E in many cases)
- There are limited exemptions, and evidence is often required
- Non-compliance may lead to enforcement action
If you’re a landlord, we can help with:
- EPC assessments
- Advice on improvement options
- Reassessments after works
EPC ratings: what helps and what hurts?
Common factors that influence EPC ratings include:
- Loft and wall insulation
- Heating system type and controls
- Double glazing / draughtproofing
- Hot water cylinder insulation
- Lighting type (LED upgrades)
- Air-tightness and ventilation approach (varies by building)
If you’re aiming to improve a rating (for example for letting), we can talk through practical options after the assessment.
New builds and major renovations (SAP assessments)
If you’re building a new home or doing substantial alterations, you may need SAP calculations for compliance and sign-off.
Learn more here:
Areas we cover
Saxon Surveying provides EPC assessments across Norfolk and surrounding areas, including Norwich, South Norfolk and nearby towns and villages.
Start here:
If you’re looking for a local EPC page, you may find:
Book an EPC
If you need an EPC for selling, letting, compliance, or peace of mind, we can help.
EPC FAQs
Do I need an EPC before listing my property online?
In most cases, yes — the EPC should be available before marketing begins.
More EPC guides
- EPC for letting a property
- EPCs for buy-to-let properties
- EPCs for commercial properties
- EPCs for landlords (MEES)
- EPCs for new builds
- EPCs for selling a house
Can I use an EPC from a previous sale?
If it’s still valid (usually within 10 years), you can often use it again.
Is an EPC required for every building?
Not always. Some buildings or situations may be exempt. Ask us and we’ll advise based on your property and purpose.
Do you lodge the EPC on the register?
Yes. EPCs are produced by accredited assessors and lodged appropriately after the assessment.