An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a guide that would-be buyers or tenants get when they look at a property.
EPCs tell you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A-G.
The most efficient homes - which should have the lowest fuel bills - are in band A. The Certificate also tells you, on a scale of A-G, about the impact the home has on the environment. Better-rated homes should have less impact through Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions.
The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings. The Certificate includes recommendations on ways to improve the home's energy efficiency to save you money and help the environment. EPCs apply also to commercial buildings and are rated only by Carbon Dioxide emission ratings on a scale of A-G.
E for Energy
The EPC will tell you the energy efficiency of your property and also its potential if you install the recommended measures.
P for Performance
The EPC tells you how well your property performs with regard to energy usage based on standard assumptions so all properties are measured in the same way. The performance of the property is not affected by your personal managment of that energy.
C for Certificate
Your Energy Performance Certificate is generated after the data is collected. The certificate will be emailed to you and your estate agent (if appropriate) almost always within 24 hours of the appointment.