Complete guide · Updated 2025
What is an Energy Performance Certificate?
A legal document that rates your property's energy efficiency from A to G — required by law when selling or renting any home in the UK.
A–G
Energy rating scale
10 yrs
Certificate valid for
48 hrs
Typical turnaround
£75+
Starting price
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal document that rates how energy-efficient a property is, on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also estimates typical annual energy costs and recommends improvements that could lower your bills and improve your rating.
EPCs are produced by accredited Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs) following an on-site inspection. The certificate is then lodged on the government's national EPC register, where it can be accessed by anyone.
When do you need an EPC?
You are legally required to have a valid EPC when:
- Selling your home — A valid EPC must be available before you can market a property for sale in England and Wales.
- Renting your property — All rental properties must have a minimum E rating. The government has proposed raising this to C by 2030.
- Building a new property — A new property requires an EPC before it can be sold or let.
- Applying for green grants — Schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme require a valid EPC.
- Remortgaging — Some lenders require an EPC as part of their green mortgage criteria.
Penalties for non-compliance: up to £200 for domestic properties, up to £5,000 for commercial properties.
EPC ratings explained: A to G
Every UK property receives an EPC score from 1 to 100. The score maps to a letter band:
Highest efficiency — very low energy costs
Excellent — well-insulated, modern systems
Good — above average for UK homes
Average — most UK homes fall here
Below average — minimum for rental properties
Poor — cannot legally be rented without exemption
Very poor — highest energy costs
The D band is the UK average. Most properties built before the 1990s sit at D or below.
What does an EPC show?
Every EPC includes two key ratings:
- Current Energy Efficiency Rating — the property's rating as it stands today.
- Potential Energy Efficiency Rating — the rating achievable if all recommended improvements are made.
The certificate also includes tailored recommendations — such as insulation upgrades, boiler replacement, or solar panels — along with estimated cost savings for each improvement.
Who can carry out an EPC?
Only accredited Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs) can legally produce EPCs. All Move-Nest assessors are fully qualified, insured, and registered with an approved accreditation scheme (Elmhurst Energy, ECMK, or Quidos).
The assessor visits the property, inspects insulation, heating systems, windows, and glazing, and lodges the completed certificate on the government EPC register.
How much does an EPC cost?
Move-Nest prices start from £75 for properties with up to 3 bedrooms. Each additional bedroom above 3 adds £10. The price you see is the price you pay — there are no hidden fees, no callbacks, and no quotes.
£75
1–3 bed
£85
4 bed
£95
5 bed
£105
6 bed
Prices vary slightly by postcode — enter yours at booking for an exact price.
How to book an EPC with Move-Nest
- 1
Enter your postcode
See your exact price instantly — no callbacks.
- 2
Fill in your property details
Property type, bedrooms, and a preferred date.
- 3
Pay securely online
Visa, Mastercard, and Apple Pay accepted via Stripe.
- 4
Assessor contacts you
Your local DEA will confirm the appointment time, usually within 24 hours.
- 5
Receive your certificate
EPC emailed to you within 24–48 hours of the assessment.
Landlord? Important requirements apply.
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), rental properties in England and Wales must have a minimum EPC rating of E. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let without a valid exemption. Proposed legislation would raise this to C by 2030.
Read the landlord EPC guideFrequently asked questions
How long does the assessment take?
30 to 60 minutes depending on property size and complexity. The assessor requires access to all rooms, the loft, and the boiler.
How long is an EPC valid for?
10 years from the date of issue. You can reuse it for multiple sales or lettings during that period, provided no major energy-related changes have been made.
Can I use an old EPC?
Yes, if it is still within its 10-year validity period. A new assessment is recommended after significant energy improvements such as new insulation or a boiler replacement.
Can you fail an EPC?
No — you cannot fail an EPC. Every property receives a rating from A to G. However, landlords must achieve a minimum E rating to let a property legally.
What happens during the assessment?
The assessor inspects construction, insulation, heating systems, windows, lighting, and hot water. They may measure and photograph the property. No preparation is required — just ensure all rooms are accessible.
How quickly can I get an EPC?
Move-Nest assessors typically contact you within 24 hours to confirm an appointment. Your certificate is usually emailed within 24–48 hours of the assessment.
Can you sell a property without an EPC?
No. A valid EPC is required before you can market a property for sale in England and Wales. Failure to provide one can result in a fine.
What EPC rating is required for landlords?
Under current MEES regulations, rental properties in England and Wales must have a minimum rating of E. The government has proposed raising this to C for new tenancies by 2030.
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