An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property in the United Kingdom. It is a legal requirement for most properties that are built, sold, or rented out.

The EPC contains details about the property’s energy usage and typical energy costs, as well as recommendations for improving its energy efficiency. It assigns the property an energy efficiency rating on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), similar to the energy labels found on household appliances.

To obtain an EPC, a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) or Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) visits the property to assess its energy efficiency. They take various factors into account, including the property’s construction, insulation, heating systems, lighting, and ventilation. Based on their assessment, they produce the EPC and register it on the national EPC register.

The EPC is valid for 10 years and must be made available to potential buyers or tenants when a property is marketed for sale or rent. Landlords are also required to provide a copy of the EPC to tenants at the start of a tenancy.

Overall, the Energy Performance Certificate plays a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency and helping property owners and tenants make informed decisions about energy use and costs.