An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a certificate that is produced following the assessment of a properties energy efficiency, displayed in a graphical format. The EPC gives information on how to make your home more energy efficient and reduce your energy costs. All homes bought, sold or rented require an EPC. An EPC contains information on home energy use and typical energy costs. It also provides information of the person who has carried out the EPC assessment.

EPC's are given free of charge in circumstances by the seller when; buying a home, buying a new build property and renting a property. Landlord's and homeowner's need to provide an EPC, and need to contact an accredited domestic energy assessor (DEA) who will carry out the assessment and produce the certificate. Assessments vary in terms of domestic and non-domestic establishments. Why get an EPC?

If you're selling or renting out a domestic property or commercial building, you must get an approved Domestic Energy Assessor to produce the EPC. The EPC needs to be available to potential buyers as soon as you start to market your property for sale or rent.

If you already own your home, the process of getting an EPC produced can help you identify ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home. As EPC's are valid for ten years, you will then have an accurate EPC ready if you decide to sell or rent within this period (unless you improve your home subsequently, in which case you may wish to get a fresh EPC done to include those improvements).