What does an EPC assessor inspect?

The assessment records features that affect energy performance, including the dwelling's age and construction, dimensions, insulation, heating, hot water, lighting, windows and renewable technologies where present.

Can an EPC be updated after improvements?

A new assessment can reflect qualifying improvements that are present and supported by the evidence required by the assessment methodology.

Energy Performance Certificates

Domestic EPC Assessments Across England

Q: How long is a domestic EPC valid?

A domestic EPC is generally valid for 10 years unless replaced by a newer certificate. Check the official register before arranging another assessment.

EPC appointments for landlords, homeowners, estate agents and portfolio managers, with a clear assessment process and practical explanation of the result.

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What an EPC shows

A clear picture of a home’s energy performance

A domestic Energy Performance Certificate gives the property a current rating from A to G, a potential rating and recommendations based on the approved assessment methodology. It also records key information about the dwelling and its energy systems.

Landlords and agents

Arrange an EPC before marketing a property where one is required, renew an expired certificate or coordinate assessments across a managed portfolio.

Homeowners and sellers

Check the current energy rating, prepare for a sale or obtain an updated assessment after relevant improvements have been completed.

Improvement planning

Use the certificate as a starting point for a practical discussion. Recommendations are modelled options, not a substitute for quotations or specialist design.

Appointment process

From address check to lodged certificate

Check the register

Confirm whether a valid certificate already exists and whether a new assessment is needed.

Book access

Arrange a suitable time with access to every room, the loft where safe, heating controls and meters.

Assess the property

Record dimensions, construction, insulation, heating, hot water, windows, lighting and relevant evidence.

Lodge the EPC

The assessment is calculated and the completed certificate is lodged on the official register.

What is assessed

Property features that influence the rating

The assessment considers the dwelling as a whole. Typical information includes:

Property age, built form, floor area and exposed heat-loss surfaces.
Wall, roof, floor and party-wall construction where applicable.
Insulation that is visible, documented or otherwise accepted by the methodology.
Main and secondary heating, controls, hot-water system and cylinder insulation.
Windows, glazed doors, draughtproofing and low-energy lighting.
Solar PV, solar water heating or other recognised technologies where present.

Keep invoices, guarantees, installation certificates and clear dated photographs for concealed improvements. The assessor can only use evidence permitted by the current methodology.

Common questions

Domestic EPC FAQs

How long is a domestic EPC valid?

An EPC is generally valid for 10 years unless it is replaced by a newer certificate. Check the official register before booking.

What does the assessor need to access?

Access is normally needed to every room, heating and hot-water equipment, meters and the loft where safe and relevant. Tell us about tenants, pets, parking or access restrictions before the visit.

How long does an EPC appointment take?

It depends on the property’s size, layout, construction and available evidence. Larger or more complex homes need longer than a straightforward flat.

Can the EPC reflect insulation hidden behind finishes?

Only where the assessment methodology permits suitable documentary or photographic evidence. Share evidence before lodging so it can be reviewed properly.

Can I obtain a new EPC after improvements?

Yes. A new assessment can reflect qualifying improvements that are present and supported by acceptable evidence.

Related services

Energy and landlord compliance support

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Elmhurst Energy Approved Energy Assessor and Quality Promise Accredited Member

Approved professional

Domestic energy assessment credentials

Professional credentials supporting our domestic Energy Performance Certificate assessment service.