​Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Guide

Helping you understand your home's energy efficiency

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient your property is. It gives your home a score out of 100 and a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate also includes:

• Typical energy use and costs

• Key features of your property

• Recommendations for improvements

Making the suggested upgrades can help lower your energy bills and reduce carbon emissions. However, these recommendations are automatically generated and may not be the best fit for your home. If you’re unsure, speak to our team at Yes Energy Solutions for tailored advice.

When do you need an EPC?

You’ll need an EPC if your property is:

• Being sold

• Being rented

• Newly built

Once completed, an EPC is valid for 10 years and must be carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor.

EPCs and grant funding

If you're applying for funding (like ECO), your property usually needs a low EPC rating (D–G). If you don’t have a current EPC, we’ll arrange one during your initial assessment to ensure accurate recommendations.

For ECO-funded installations, we provide an Energy Performance Report (EPR) instead of a full EPC. This still records all improvements made. If you plan to sell or rent your property later, a full EPC will be required.

After installations, we’ll carry out a final EPC to reflect the upgrades and give you the most accurate rating.

What to expect during an EPC assessment

• Someone must be present—this can be you or someone you trust

• The assessment takes around 90 minutes, depending on property size

• The assessor will inspect rooms, heating systems, windows, and insulation

• They’ll take measurements and photos (no personal or sensitive images)

• No tools or disruption—just a ladder and tablet for recording details

• You don’t need to clear your loft, but making it accessible helps. The assessor may only need to pop their head in to check insulation.

Common questions

Do I need an EPC if I’m not selling?

Yes—landlords need one to rent out a property, and homeowners can use it to plan energy-saving upgrades.

Is the assessment intrusive?

No. It’s visual only, with no drilling or moving furniture.

Can I ask questions during the visit?

Absolutely. Our assessors are happy to explain anything during or after the survey.

Getting your EPC certificate

Your EPC will be available online within a few days of the assessment. You can find it on the official government register:

www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate

It will remain available for 10 years, and you can request a copy if needed.

Need help or have questions?

Our Yes Advice Line offers free, impartial support to help you understand your EPC and plan improvements. Energy advice and wrap-around support | YES Energy Solutions