A clearer picture of a property’s energy efficiency
What Is an EPC? A Homeowner’s Guide to Energy Performance Certificates
If you're selling or renting a property in Scotland, understanding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) is essential. Introduced in 2008, EPCs are designed to give homeowners and buyers a clear picture of a property’s energy efficiency and how it can be improved.
At Donald Ross Residential, we’re here to help you understand what EPCs mean for your home, your energy bills, and your legal obligations when selling or letting a property.
Why Are EPCs Important?
Around 22% of the UK’s carbon emissions come from homes mainly from heating, lighting, and everyday appliances. EPCs help reduce this by offering insights into how energy-efficient a home is, alongside practical advice on how to make improvements.
A better EPC rating usually means lower energy bills, which is why checking the EPC is a smart move when browsing properties for sale.
Do I Need an EPC to Sell My Home in Scotland?
Yes. If you're planning to sell or rent your property, an Energy Performance Certificate is a legal requirement. Buyers will want to review this document, and it can be viewed within the Home Report.
What is Included in an EPC?
An EPC is prepared by a certified surveyor who will visit your property to evaluate how much energy is used to heat and power your home. This is carried out at the same time as the Home Report. The report includes:
- A current energy efficiency score (based on your home’s condition at the time of assessment)
- A potential score, showing what could be achieved if you implement the suggested improvements
- Practical advice on how to make your home more energy efficient
What Happens During an EPC Assessment?
During the EPC inspection, the assessor will examine key areas such as:
- Wall, loft, and floor insulation
- Window glazing (double or triple)
- Draught-proofing
- Boiler efficiency
- Heating systems and controls
- Use of energy-efficient lighting
The outcome is a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with a numerical score. The higher the score, the lower your expected energy costs.
EPC Rating Bands Explained
Here’s a breakdown of the EPC scores and their corresponding grades:
- 🟢 A – 92 and above
- 🟢 B – 81 to 91
- 🟡 C – 69 to 80
- 🟡 D – 55 to 68
- 🔴 E – 39 to 54
- 🔴 F – 21 to 38
- 🔴 G – 1 to 20
According to data from the Scottish Government:
- Most homes in Scotland fall into band D or C.
- Newer homes, especially those built after 2010, are more likely to have band B ratings.
- Older properties, especially those built before 1919, tend to have lower ratings, often in band E or F, unless retrofitted.
As of the most recent figures, approximately 40% of homes in Scotland are rated EPC band D, and only around 2–3% achieve the top rating of A.
How Long Does an EPC Last?
An EPC is valid for 10 years. It remains tied to the property, regardless of how many times it is sold or rented during that period. If you’ve made improvements since your last assessment, such as adding insulation or upgrading windows, you’ll need a new EPC to reflect these changes.
How Can I Check My Property’s EPC Rating?
You can easily check your EPC rating online through the government’s official EPC register. Here's where to look:
If your home hasn’t been assessed in the last 10 years, it might not appear in the system, and you’ll need to arrange a new EPC.
How Much Does an EPC Cost?
The cost of an EPC depends on your location and the size of your home. Most homeowners can expect to pay between £60 and £120, but larger properties or new builds may incur higher fees due to more detailed assessments.
Donald Ross Residential can arrange an EPC for you which will be carried out at the same time as the property Home Report. We will arrange a home report to be carried out once we have valued your property and you have instructed us as your estate agent.
Who Pays for the EPC?
The seller or landlord is responsible for covering the EPC cost. If you're a homeowner preparing to sell in Scotland, you must provide a valid EPC before listing your property. Builders of new homes must also supply one upon completion.
Is It Illegal to Sell or Let Without an EPC?
Yes, it's a legal requirement. You must have a valid EPC before marketing your home. In rental properties, it is illegal to let homes with an EPC rating below E, unless you have an official exemption.
How to Improve Your Home’s EPC Rating
Your EPC report includes tailored advice on how to boost your property’s efficiency score. Some common upgrades include:
- Loft and wall insulation
- Upgrading to double or triple-glazed windows
- Installing a modern boiler
- Using low-energy lighting
- Adding solar panels
These improvements can lower your energy bills and increase your home’s value and buyer appeal.
Remember: To reflect improvements in your official rating, you’ll need a new EPC assessment.
