An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legally required document that assesses the energy efficiency of a property in the UK. It provides a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) based on factors such as insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy sources. The EPC also includes recommendations for improving the property’s energy efficiency.
The EPC is mandated under the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 and is a key component of the UK’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency in buildings. It is required whenever a property is built, sold, or rented.
The assessment is carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) or Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA), who evaluates the property’s construction, heating systems, and insulation. The resulting certificate is valid for 10 years and must be made available to potential buyers or tenants.
Synonyms: Energy Rating Certificate, Energy Efficiency Certificate
Practical Examples #
- Home Sale: When selling a house in the UK, the seller must provide an EPC to prospective buyers. For example, a Victorian terraced house with single-glazed windows and an old boiler might receive a D rating, while a newly built eco-home with solar panels and triple-glazed windows could achieve an A rating.
- Rental Properties: Landlords are legally required to provide an EPC to tenants. Properties with a rating below E cannot be rented out unless exempt, as per the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations 2015.
- Retrofit Projects: Homeowners undertaking renovations can use the EPC’s recommendations to prioritise upgrades, such as installing loft insulation or upgrading to a condensing boiler.
Related Terms #
- Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA): A professional qualified to carry out energy assessments for residential properties.
- SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure): The methodology used to calculate the energy performance of dwellings in the UK.
- MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards): Regulations requiring rental properties to meet a minimum EPC rating of E.
- Building Regulations Part L: The section of UK Building Regulations that sets standards for the energy efficiency of new and existing buildings.
- Retrofit: The process of upgrading existing buildings to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
- Renewable Energy Sources: Technologies such as solar panels and heat pumps that can improve a property’s EPC rating.
- Air Tightness Testing: A test to measure the leakage of air through a building’s envelope, which impacts energy efficiency.