Do all buildings need an EPC?

Most domestic properties will require an EPC, but there are a few exceptions.

You do not need to get an EPC for your property if it's:

• a temporary building that will be used for no longer than 2 years

• a small stand-alone building with a total ‘useful’ floor space of less than 50 square meters

• due to be demolished

• holiday accommodation that is rented out for less than 4 months a year or is let under a licence to occupy

• a listed building

• a residential building intended to be used less than 4 months a year.

MEES

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) are a set of rules relating to rental homes. They were first introduced in England and Wales in 2015.

In 2018, MEES made it illegal for private landlords to rent a property that has an EPC rating below E. That means that any homes rated F or G can’t be offered for rent until their rating is improved.

Do I need to renew an EPC during a tenancy? 

Not if you have the same tenants in the property and you’re not making any changes to their tenancy agreement. You only need to renew an expired EPC when you plan to market the property for new tenants, or if you want to reflect improvements you’ve made to a property that will result in an improved rating.

What happens during the assessment?

An energy assessor will need access to your entire property during the assessment and will photograph things such as your boiler, TRV's, radiators and external shots of the property to document evidence for the rating. They look at a range of different factors, including:

• the construction, age, and size of your property

• windows - whether you have single, double, or triple glazed windows

• lighting - what lighting is being used in the property, and whether this is energy saving or low energy

• any secondary heat sources, including renewable energy sources

• primary heating controls including the boiler and other heating controls such as radiators and storage heaters

• insulation - whether there is any cavity or loft insulation in your property.

If you can provide certificates for energy upgrades, such as MCS certificate for Solar panels, or proof of insulation installation this evidence can help improve the rating generated.

How do I find out if I have an EPC already?

You can find out whether you have a current EPC by using the links below and entering your property information.

• England, Wales and Northern Ireland - https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate

• Welsh speaking - https://www.gov.uk/dod-o-hyd-i-dystysgrif-ynni

• Scotland - https://www.scottishepcregister.org.uk/