What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates your home’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It is produced by a qualified assessor who visits your property and records details about insulation, heating, glazing, lighting, and renewable energy systems.
The certificate shows your current rating and a potential rating that could be achieved with recommended improvements. It is valid for 10 years.
When Do You Need an EPC?
You need a valid EPC when:
- Selling your home — Required by law before marketing.
- Renting your home — Minimum E rating required for new tenancies (likely to increase to C by 2030).
- Applying for the BUS grant — A valid EPC is mandatory for heat pump grant applications.
- Certain council schemes — ECO4 and GBIS require an EPC.
If you do not have a current EPC, we can arrange one as part of our service.
How Heat Pumps and Solar Improve Your EPC
Installing renewable energy systems can dramatically improve your EPC rating:
- Air source heat pump: Can improve your rating by 10–20 SAP points, often enough to jump one or two bands (e.g., D to C or B).
- Solar panels: Typically add 5–15 SAP points depending on system size.
- Both combined: Many homes move from D/E to B/C, which is significant for future regulations and property value.
A better EPC rating also makes your property more attractive to buyers and can add 5–10% to its value, according to various property market studies.
Frequently asked questions
EPCs run from A (best) to G. C or above is considered good and is the direction regulations are heading. Heat pumps and solar can lift most homes from D/E into B/C.
Yes — a valid EPC is mandatory for a Boiler Upgrade Scheme application. If you do not have a current one, we can arrange it as part of our service.
A heat pump can add 10–20 SAP points (often one or two bands) and solar adds 5–15 points. Together many homes jump from D/E to B/C, which also helps property value.
Ten years. You need a valid one to sell or let a property, to claim the heat pump grant, and for schemes such as ECO4.
Keep reading
Ready to get started?
Start with a free, no-obligation online estimate. When you’re ready to go further, book your £250 home survey — fully refunded when you go ahead with your installation.