What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate, otherwise known as an EPC, provides an energy rating for a home. It is found in a Home Information Pack (HIP) which is required for homes sold in England and Wales.

What does it look like?

The EPC provides a rating of the properties energy efficiency and displays this as a graph, similar to those found on kitchen appliances. It doesn’t look at the appliances, but rather the performance of the building itself in areas such as heating and lighting.

Ratings come on a scale of A-G, with A being the best rating. Most homes in the UK have a band D-E rating for both the Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact.

Home improvements

The EPC also outlines some ideas which help to improve the building’s energy performance. Implementing these can lead to lower energy bills, reduced carbon deposits and can make homes more attractive to potential buyers.

Where will I see one?

The EPC must be included in the HIP. In addition, the two graphs which feature on the EPC will now be shown on property particulars.