What is EPC and how is it calculated?

17th February 2023

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You may have heard of EPCs or even seen an EPC certificate… but what are they and what do they mean?

EPCs are certificates that give properties an energy efficiency rating. In some cases, you’re required by law to obtain an EPC e.g. if you’re selling or letting a property. At Charters, we can let you know if you need an EPC and our accredited assessors can assist with the process.

For now, let’s find out more about EPCs and how they’re calculated…

EPC meaning

EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate and details information about a property’s energy use with recommendations on how to reduce it. The certificate gives the property an energy efficiency rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

How long does an EPC last and who needs one?

An EPC is valid for 10 years and is required whenever a property is:

• Built
• Sold
• Rented

An accredited assessor is able to provide an EPC and this service is likely to cost between £60 and £120 on average.

To find out the EPC of your property and how to improve the EPC score click here.

How is an energy efficiency rating calculated?

In order to calculate an energy efficiency rating the assessor will visit the property and carry out an inspection. They will:

• Take a measured survey
• Consider the type/construction of the property
• Take photographs
• Record lights, windows, heating and radiators
• Look at insulation and ventilation

Each part of the inspection will generate a SAP score (Standard Assessment Procedure) based on how efficient it is and what condition it’s in. At the end, this score is added up to generate the EPC rating. The higher the score, the better, i.e.:

• EPC rating A = 92-100 SAP points
• EPC rating B = 81-91 SAP points
• EPC rating C = 69-80 SAP points
• EPC rating D = 55-68 SAP points
• EPC rating E = 39-54 SAP points
• EPC rating F = 21-38 SAP points
• EPC rating G = 1-20 SAP points

Why is the EPC important?

For buyers

• The seller must provide you with an EPC for the property at their expense. It is useful to give an overview of the energy efficiency of the property and to give you an idea of future expenses/renovations to make improvements.

For sellers

• You are legally obliged to provide a valid EPC when you sell. At Charters, we can arrange and conduct this for you.

For landlords

• Landlords must ensure that their property has an EPC rating of E or above before taking on any new tenants or renewing existing contracts. This is a legal requirement and tenants should check the EPC rating before moving in.

For tenants

• You should check that the EPC rating on the property is E or higher before signing a contract. Looking at the certificate will also give an idea of what you could be paying in energy costs.

Can I improve an EPC?

An EPC will come with a list of suggestions for improving the rating such as:

• Adding/improving insulation in floors/loft/roof/walls
• Upgrading to double glazing
• Adding solar panels/other green energy systems
• Switching to LED lightbulbs
• Changing to a more efficient boiler
• Getting a smart meter

Upon completion of improvement works you will be able to have the property reassessed for EPC purposes.

You can also read the government’s guide on saving on your electricity bills here.

Get in touch

Hopefully you now have a better understanding of EPCs, how they are calculated and the information they provide. If you have any further questions or would like to arrange an assessment for your property, please get in touch. Our experienced team will be happy to help.