Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of your home.

It provides information on your home’s energy use and recommendations on how to improve energy efficiency. 

Assessments 

EPC assessments are required by law for properties being newly rented or sold. It helps to ensure that homes meet energy efficiency standards and shows how to improve the property to use less energy. 

During an assessment

An accredited energy assessor will visit your property to inspect various aspects such as insulation, heating systems, windows, lighting and construction. They will take measurements and note details about energy usage. The assessor will not make any changes to your home.

The assessment is non-invasive and should not be disruptive. The assessor will simply observe and collect data on the energy efficiency features of your home.

Assessment length

The assessment will take approximately one hour, depending on the size of your home.

Preparing for the assessment

No special preparation is needed. However, the assessor will need to access all areas of the home, including the loft or area of the boiler, so it’s helpful to ensure that they are able to access these areas.

Following the assessment

No action is required, but the EPC report will include recommendations to improve your home's energy efficiency.

Assessment cost

We are arranging and covering the cost of these assessments as part of our commitment to improving the energy efficiency in our housing and comfort in your home.

EPC ratings

The EPC rating is based on factors that the assessor has observed, such as insulation, heating systems, and lighting. The information is input into a software program that will generate an EPC.

The rating is based on how much energy your property uses per square meter and how much energy it loses. 

What the rating tells you

The EPC will tell you roughly how much it will cost to heat or light your home, along with your existing and potential carbon emissions.

A higher EPC rating means your home is more energy-efficient, which could lead to lower energy bills. EPC rating scores range from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). 

Impact on your energy bills

If you implement the recommended energy efficiency improvements you can reduce energy consumption and potentially lower your energy bills. 

How long the EPC lasts for

The EPC is valid for 10 years from the date of issue.

More information

We have lots of initiatives in place to make homes and buildings in the borough more energy efficient. Find out how we are working together on energy.