Residential Energy Performance Certificate

A Residential Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that shows how energy-efficient a home is, helping homeowners and buyers understand its energy usage and potential running costs. It can be used for domestic property only, such as houses, flats, or apartments. The EPC rates your home from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). This rating informs homeowners and tenants about how much energy the property consumes and where they can make improvements. The certificate also contains easy-to-follow advice on saving energy and reducing bills. An EPC is useful when selling, buying, or renting a house to make energy usage transparent.

Get Instant Booking

Select your property and get quote within 30 seconds

Our Prices

1-3 Bedrooms

4-5 Bedrooms

6 Bedrooms

£69.00

£79.00

£99.00

Why Do You Need an EPC for Your Home in London?

If you’re selling, renting, or constructing a property in London, you need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). You may have to face heavy fines if you don’t have one. The EPC should be provided to the buyer or tenant prior to signing the home up for sale or rent.

As a homeowner, you must have an EPC to demonstrate the energy efficiency of your home. It informs individuals about the home’s operating expenses and provides suggestions for optimizing energy consumption. An updated EPC also makes your house more marketable to potential buyers or renters.

Landlords are also required to supply a valid EPC for all rental properties. It is also law in London that rented houses must have a minimum EPC rating of E.

When Is an EPC Required for Residential Properties?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has to be in place before selling or renting a house. It’s one of the important documents that you need before you put the property on the market. It allows potential buyers or renters to know how energy efficient the house is from the beginning.

If you’re a landlord renewing a tenancy or letting a property for the first time, a current EPC is required. It remains valid for 10 years, but if alterations have been made to increase the property’s energy efficiency, it’s worth having a new one done.

New buildings also require an EPC after they are built. The certificate should be produced before any occupation. Therefore, if you are a homeowner, landlord, or developer, obtain the correct EPC at the correct time, so you can progress without any legal complications or setbacks.

Understanding EPC Ratings: What Do A to G Mean?

EPC rating indicates the energy efficiency of a house, ranging from A to G. ‘A’ indicates that the house is highly efficient and saves energy. ‘G’ indicates that it is not efficient in energy consumption and can cost more to keep warm. The nearer to ‘A’, the better the house is for energy and cost-saving.

There are many factors that influence these ratings, such as:

Insulation: Well-insulated walls, roofs, and floors mean less heat loss and a higher grade on the EPC. Low levels of insulation reduce the rating.
Heating Systems: New boilers, heat pumps, and energy-efficient thermostats make the rating better. Inefficient or old heating systems lower energy performance.
Windows and Doors: Double- or triple-glazed windows and sealed doors prevent warmth from escaping and cold air from entering, increasing your home’s energy score.

Ensure Complete Compliance with Our Property Solutions

How Is a Residential EPC Assessment Conducted?

The EPC assessment begins with a visit from an accredited energy assessor. They first ensure that they check the size and layout of your home. They examine the number of floors, the way the rooms are configured, and the kind of property it is—either a flat, detached, or terraced property.

Second, the assessor inspects major factors influencing energy consumption. These are loft insulation, wall thickness, heating system, hot water tank, windows, and lighting. They also observe the boiler’s age, whether windows are double-glazed, and the state of the roof and doors.

Typically, most domestic EPC visits take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size and nature of the property. The assessor then uses approved computer software to calculate the rating.

What to Expect During a Home EPC Inspection

When you arrange for a home EPC inspection with professionals, expect the visit to last around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on property size. The assessor will look at important areas such as the loft, boiler, windows, and heating installation to collect energy information.

To assist the process to run smoothly, get your home ready beforehand. Ensure that spaces such as the loft, boiler cupboard, and electric meter are accessible. Remove any clutter or obstructions. If you have proof of recent improvements—such as new insulation or a new boiler—have them on hand for inspection.

If you hire a professional company, you will get the opportunity to get the work done from courteous, professional, and trained staff who will not intrude on your personal space. They work discreetly, don’t disturb, and never touch anything without seeking permission.

How Much Does a Residential EPC Cost in London?

The residential EPC costs anywhere between £35 to £80 in London. The price finally depends on some critical factors, so it may differ house by house.

One of the chief factors is the property size. Bigger houses require longer to inspect and tend to be more costly. Small flats or studios are generally at the lower end of the spectrum.

Other considerations are the London location and accessibility of the property. Properties in areas of high activity or those that require quick bookings might be priced somewhat higher. It is always worth checking beforehand how much your property may cost.

How to Improve Your Home's EPC Rating?

Enhancing your home’s EPC rating can save you on energy bills and make your home a more comfortable place. Every little change can add up in the long run.

Begin by replacing your lights with LED. They consume less energy and last longer than standard bulbs. Next, look to replace an aging boiler with one that is newer and more efficient. This warms your home more efficiently without using up energy.

Adding or upgrading the insulation within your walls, loft, and floors makes the heat stay inside during winter and the cool air in summer. This step will only increase your EPC rating. Also, it will cut down your bills and contribute to the environment.

Benefits of Having a High EPC Rating for Your Property

A high EPC rating means your home uses energy efficiently, which brings several benefits. One big advantage is that your property can have a better resale value. Buyers who take rational decisions always prefer homes that save money on energy bills.

With a high rating, you’ll also pay less for heating and electricity. This helps reduce your monthly costs and makes living at home more comfortable.

Houses with high EPC ratings appeal to environmentally aware buyers who want to reduce their carbon footprint. A high rating also simplifies compliance with the law when selling or letting.

Choosing a Qualified Residential EPC Assessor in London

When selecting an EPC assessor in London, ensure they are accredited. Ensure they have been certified by well-known bodies, which indicates that they adhere to the standards required by the authorities. Customer reviews can also enable you to identify trustworthy and reliable assessors.

Experience matters a lot. An assessor who is used to working on domestic properties will be aware of the particularities of houses, flats, and apartments. They know what to seek out and can provide you with a more precise and useful EPC report.

Before making a decision, request quotes from a number of assessors. Costs may be different based on the size of the property and the area. Requesting multiple quotes allows you to get the best service at an affordable price.

Government Regulations and Legal Obligations for Homeowners

It is a legal obligation in the UK to possess an EPC when selling, letting, or constructing a house. This is for all housing properties, including those within London. The regulations assist in making homes energy-efficient to avoid energy wastage.

Landlords and homeowners should present a valid EPC to purchasers or tenants prior to finalizing a sale or letting agreement. This serves to inform individuals about the energy expenditure and comfort of the building they are purchasing or renting.

Breaking EPC regulations can lead to fines or penalties. While it doesn’t occur often, it’s always best to stick to the law to prevent any issues. London homeowners must make sure they possess an up-to-date EPC and comply with all regulations to maintain their property in good standing and prevent any issues.

Top Tips to Prepare Your Home Before an EPC Assessment

Getting your home ready for an EPC inspection can save time and make the process easier. Here are some tips for your convenience:

Make sure there is easy access to important areas such as the loft, boiler, and electric meter. Remove any boxes or obstructions in the way of these areas.
Clean around the heating system and boiler so the assessor can easily view everything.
Check all lighting is in good working order, including lamps and fixed lights, as these impact your rating.
If you have any documentation prepared on recent upgrades, such as new insulation or a new boiler, present it.
Make windows and doors easily accessible for the assessor to inspect their condition.
Be present during the visit to provide answers to any questions the assessor has.

Residential EPC for Landlords: What You Need to Know

London landlords have unique duties when it comes to EPCs. It’s a requirement by law to possess a valid EPC prior to renting any building. The EPC indicates the energy efficiency of the dwelling, and tenants can use this to comprehend energy expenses.

Since April 2018, rental homes have needed to have a minimum EPC rating of E or higher. Landlords are required to improve the property if it falls below that score to rent it out. Homeowners don’t have a minimum rating to meet when selling their house.

Landlords also have to give the EPC to renters prior to them moving in. Remaining in compliance prevents fines and maintains rental contracts within legality.

How to Book a Residential EPC Assessment in London

Residential EPC assessment booking in London is easy and effortless. You can easily book online with local assessors or agencies that know your location well. This ensures booking easily and saving time.

It is wise to pick accredited professionals who work according to official standards. Accredited assessors deliver sure and legal EPC reports that you can rely upon.

Always verify credentials prior to booking, and inquire about prices and availability. This guarantees an easy and hassle-free process. By doing these steps, you manage to get your EPC quickly and accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is a residential EPC valid for?

A domestic EPC lasts for 10 years from its date of issue. This is why you won’t require a new certificate within that period when selling or letting your house again. But if you make significant alterations to your property that influence energy consumption, it’s advisable to obtain a new EPC earlier to display the new rating.

Can I sell or rent my home without an EPC?

No, it is illegal to sell or let a residential property in the UK without an EPC. You should have the certificate prepared before marketing your home for sale to potential buyers or letting it to potential tenants. You could be fined and your sale or letting delayed if you do not have an EPC. It also gives potential buyers or tenants an idea of the energy efficiency of your home.

How quickly can I get an EPC in London?

In London, numerous accredited EPC assessors can issue your certificate within a few working days, and even on the same day in some cases, if you plan ahead. The timeframe would be based on the availability of the assessor and the size of your property. Planning ahead and making sure your house is ready will enable the assessor to carry out the inspection swiftly and issue you with your EPC promptly.

What happens if my EPC rating is too low?

If your EPC rating is less than the minimum required by law of E for rented properties, you will have to improve it before renting it out. This could involve installing insulation or improving heating. For sale, a low rating does not prevent sale but may make your property less desirable to buyers, who might be anticipating to pay more for energy or to improve it themselves.

Are there any exemptions for listed or older homes?

Certain listed buildings and very ancient houses are exempt from requiring an EPC due to their unique historical or architectural significance. These exemptions are given as retrofitting these houses may prove challenging without compromising their character. Nevertheless, you should verify with a competent assessor or your local authority to ensure whether your house is exempted or you require an EPC.

Do I need a new EPC after home renovations?

If you have already completed major improvements to make your home more energy efficient, for example, replacing a boiler or the addition of insulation, you should consider obtaining a new EPC. The new certificate will display the upgraded rating and can make your property more valuable. Although it is not always legally necessary, an updated EPC indicates the current state of your home and is helpful when selling or renting out your home.

Contact Us

Experiencing frequent fuse box trips can be both frustrating and concerning. Understanding the common causes and knowing how to address them can help maintain your home’s electrical safety.

Request a Commercial Fire Risk Assessment Today

Don’t leave fire safety to chance. Contact EICR CERT for a professional fire risk assessment and ensure your business is protected.

Get in Touch with Our Experts

Do you want to know your next step in ensuring fire safety for your commercial property? Call us today or fill out our online form for a consultation right now!