How much does an Energy Performance Certificate cost?

Your Guide To EPC Costs

Even though an EPC is a legal requirement, it’s good to know how much it will cost so you can feel prepared. In this guide, we'll dive into the average costs of obtaining an EPC, what factors can influence these costs, and why it's a valuable investment for your property.

We'll cover the following topics in this pricing guide:

1. Average cost of an Energy Performance Certificate
2. Tips on How To Reduce the Costs of an EPC
3. Hidden EPC Costs, Penalties and Exemptions
4. How long does an EPC assessment take?
5. How to Prepare for Your EPC Inspection: Checklist
6. Find An EPC Professional Near You Today
7. FAQ - Frequently asked questions about EPC certificates

Average cost of an Energy Performance Certificate

When it comes to obtaining an EPC certificate, the cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of your property and the location. Generally, the cost for an EPC certificate ranges from £35 to £120.

What is an EPC certificate? An EPC certificate is a slip that gives owners information about how efficient a property is, in terms of energy. The certificate gives properties a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Any rating D or below can be considered sub-optimal, and F or G often stops a property from being sold or rented.

Take a look at this table that outlines the type of house and EPC certificate cost:

Property Type	Average Cost
Flat	£35–£60
Terraced house	£45–£80
Semi-detached house	£50–£100
Detached house	£60–£120

The price includes the assessor's visit to your property, where they collect information on its energy use and carbon dioxide emissions. This assessment typically takes about an hour, depending on the size and complexity of your property.

Following the assessment, the assessor will issue your EPC, which remains valid for 10 years.

If you want to know more about how much an EPC will specifically cost you and your home, you can easily get in touch with a professional on MyBuilder. Simply post your job and someone near you will get back to you.

Tips on How To Reduce the Costs of an EPC

Making your EPC checks cheaper is often about finding the right assessor at the right price, but there are also a few other ways you can reduce the costs.

These tips will help you reduce your EPC certificate costs:

Shop around: Costs can vary significantly between assessors, so it's wise to get quotes from multiple accredited energy assessors in your area. Find a contractor through MyBuilder, or get recommendations from friends and family.

Bundle services: If you're also having other property assessments or services done, such as gas safety checks or electrical inspections, some companies offer discounts for bundling these services together.

Check for local grants: In some areas, local authorities or energy-saving schemes may offer subsidies or discounts for energy assessments and improvements. It's worth checking if any such incentives are available in your area.

Improve your energy efficiency before: If you're not in a rush to get your EPC, consider making some energy efficiency improvements to your property first. Not only could this improve your property's energy rating, but it might also make the assessment quicker and easier.

Remember, while it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, ensure your assessor is properly accredited and has good reviews. On average, hiring a central heating engineer costs around £43 an hour.

However, a thorough and accurate assessment can provide valuable insights into improving your property's energy efficiency, which can save you money in the long run.

Are you looking to get an Energy Performance Certificate for your property? A local professional can help. Post your project and find an assessor in your area with MyBuilder.

Hidden EPC Costs, Penalties and Exemptions

Getting an EPC certificate can sometimes be more complicated than people initially think. A low EPC rating can cost someone, so getting a good rating on your EPC certificate is important.

Here is a quick summary of the hidden costs that could come about:

Legal issues: Under the MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards) regulations, landlords must ensure that all rental properties have an EPC rating of E or higher. Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £5,000 per property.

Reduced property value: A poor EPC rating can significantly reduce a property's market value and make it harder to sell or rent, as buyers and tenants are looking for things like lower running costs.

7-Year Payback Test: An exemption can be registered if the cost of recommended energy efficiency improvements, such as insulation or new window costs, cannot be recouped.

How long does an EPC assessment take?

Getting an EPC certificate involves an assessment by an accredited assessor who visits your home to evaluate its energy performance. This process is relatively quick and straightforward, typically taking about 45 minutes to an hour for most homes.

Here is the step-by-step process of an EPC assessment:

Initial inspection: The assessor will inspect all rooms, including the loft, and take note of the property's windows, walls, heating systems, and any renewable energy installations.

Data collection: The assessor will collect key data on the property's dimensions, insulation, and heating systems to calculate its energy efficiency.

Report generation: After the visit, the assessor will use the collected data to generate your EPC, which includes your property's energy rating and recommendations for improvement.

It's important to have all relevant documents ready for the assessor, such as proof of any energy-efficient improvements you've made. This can help ensure the assessment is completed as efficiently as possible.

Once the assessment is done, it usually takes a few days for the EPC to be registered and available for download from the national EPC register.

Prepare For Your EPC Inspection: Checklist

When preparing to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate for your property, use this checklist to help ensure you're ready for the assessment and even improve your property's energy efficiency rating.

Gather property documents: Have any relevant documents ready, such as details of any energy-efficient improvements you've made (e.g., insulation, new windows, heating systems).

Ensure access: Make sure the assessor can easily access all areas of your property, including the loft, basement, and any outbuildings.

Check bulbs: Replace any non-energy-efficient light bulbs with LED bulbs, as this can positively impact your property’s energy rating.

Insulate the loft: If your loft isn't already insulated, doing so can improve your rating. Even laying down additional layers of insulation can make a difference.

Bleed radiators: Ensure your heating system is working efficiently by bleeding any radiators that might have air trapped in them.

Seal drafts: Check for and seal up any drafts around doors and windows to improve heat retention.

Review recommendations: After receiving your EPC, review the recommendations carefully and consider which energy efficiency improvements you can make.

By getting ahead of the game and decluttering, collecting documents, and shining a light on the property’s best features, the whole process becomes much smoother for everyone involved.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about EPC certificates

How long is an EPC certificate valid for?

An EPC certificate is valid for 10 years. If you make significant energy efficiency improvements to your property, it might be worth getting a new assessment to reflect these changes in your EPC rating.

Can I sell my house without an EPC?

It is a legal requirement to have a valid EPC available to potential buyers when you're selling your home in the UK. Failure to provide an EPC can result in a fine.

Does an EPC rating affect my property value?

While the EPC rating is just one of many factors potential buyers consider, a higher rating can make your property more attractive. It suggests lower energy bills and better environmental efficiency.

What can I do to improve my EPC rating?

Simple measures like insulating your loft, upgrading your boiler, or installing double or triple glazing can improve your rating. More significant investments, such as solar panels or a heat pump, can also have a substantial impact.

Are there any exemptions to the requirement to have an EPC?

Some properties, like listed buildings, temporary structures, and places of worship, might be exempt from requiring an EPC. However, it's always best to check with an accredited assessor or your local authority if you're unsure.