How Do I Get
an EPC Certificate?

Step-by-step guide to getting your EPC

Getting an EPC is straightforward but the process is regulated plus only an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) can produce a valid certificate. Here is what to do.

Step 1: Find an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor. Three main accreditation schemes operate in England plus Wales: Elmhurst Energy, Stroma Certification plus Quidos. Each maintains a public register of accredited assessors. Search by postcode at the scheme's website. Local estate agents, energy companies plus letting agents also work with DEAs plus can recommend.

Step 2: Get quotes plus book. EPC costs vary by property size plus location. UK 2026 typical prices:

• Flat or maisonette. £60 to £80.
• 2 to 3-bed terraced or semi-detached house. £70 to £110.
• 4-bed detached house. £90 to £140.
• Larger or unusual properties. £120 to £200.

Step 3: Prepare for the assessor's visit. The assessor needs access to:

• Loft space (or confirmation if there is no loft).
• Boiler or heating system plus controls.
• Hot water cylinder if separate.
• All habitable rooms in the property.
• External walls plus windows visible from outside.

Helpful records to have ready (not required but speed up the assessment plus may improve the rating):

• Boiler installation date plus model number.
• Cavity wall insulation certificates if applicable.
• Loft insulation depth plus year fitted.
• Double glazing installation dates.
• Solar panel or heat pump installation certificates.
• Any building regulations completion certificates for extensions or improvements.

Step 4: The site visit. The DEA spends 30 to 60 minutes at the property. They will:

• Measure each room plus calculate total floor area.
• Photograph the boiler, controls plus heating system.
• Inspect or confirm loft insulation depth.
• Note window types, frames plus glazing.
• Check the lighting plus fittings.
• Note any extensions or alterations.
• Sometimes use a thermal imaging camera (rare for residential).

Step 5: EPC issued. The assessor enters all data into government-approved software using the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for new builds or Reduced Data SAP (RdSAP) for existing homes. The software calculates the EPC rating plus produces the certificate. The DEA lodges the EPC on the official EPC Register. You receive the EPC by email within 24 to 72 hours of the assessment. The EPC also becomes searchable on the public register.

Step 6: Verify on the EPC Register. Search at epcregister.com using your property postcode plus address. The EPC should appear with rating, expiry date, plus a link to the full PDF. If it does not appear after 72 hours, contact the assessor.

What if I disagree with the rating? EPCs are based on a standard assessment methodology, not detailed building physics. Some accurate features (like internal wall insulation hidden from inspection) may not be captured. To challenge an EPC, contact the original DEA. They can revisit if needed. If still unsatisfied, contact the assessor's accreditation scheme (Elmhurst, Stroma or Quidos) for an independent review.

What about the new HEM:EPC system? The Home Energy Model (HEM) methodology is replacing SAP plus RdSAP. The launch was originally planned for 2026 but has been delayed. As of March 2026 the new system is due to launch in the second half of 2027 plus become compulsory for new EPCs from 1 October 2029. Until then, current SAP plus RdSAP methodology continues to apply.

Getting your EPC right first time saves time plus often gets a higher rating. Our full EPC Ratings hub covers Energy Performance Certificates plus MEES regulations across UK homes plus rental properties.