The energy efficiency of homes in England can be measured and published as an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
All domestic and commercial buildings need an EPC when a property is built, sold or rented. You must arrange an EPC for potential buyers and tenants before you market your property to sell or rent.
More information can be found on the government’s web pages about buying or selling your home.
The highest and most efficient band is A which is the best rating to have. The lower the rating, the less energy efficient the home is.
To look at your home's ECP or to apply to get a new ECP please visit the government find an ECP web page.
Inefficient homes are much harder to keep at a comfortable temperature. Some of the issues that can contribute to making a home less energy efficient are:
- not having enough insulation in the roof, walls, and floor
- windows that are single glazed
- faulty or broken boilers
- the poor condition of the fabric of the home resulting in drafts
Lack of insulation means the inside temperature will change as the outdoor temperature rises or falls. This means your home could feel uncomfortably cold in the winter but also too hot in the summer.
If your home is rated D, E, F, G you may be eligible to access help to improve its EPC rating. You can get help if you own or rent this property, if you rent you will need permission from your landlord to go ahead with any changes.
If you live in an energy-inefficient home
If your home has an EPC there will be recommendations included about changes to improve a home’s energy efficiency. There is also an approximate cost that would need to be spent to achieve those changes. If you live in a lower EPC property you may be able to access a grant to pay for improvements.
These grants can change, so please contact our home energy advisor to see what might be available. We can also help you to fill in the forms if you require it.