Draft EPC London: Plan Your Energy Efficiency Improvements Before You Commit

A Draft EPC is a provisional Energy Performance Certificate that shows how proposed improvement works could affect a property’s energy rating — before any work is carried out. EPCRATE is one of the very few London assessors offering a Draft EPC service, making it a unique tool for landlords, homeowners and property investors planning energy efficiency upgrades.

If you are considering insulation, a heat pump, solar panels or any other improvement, a Draft EPC can help you understand the likely impact on your EPC rating before spending money on works. Call 020 3488 4142 to discuss your property.

What Is a Draft EPC?

A Draft EPC is produced using the same approved assessment methodology as a standard EPC, but with proposed improvements modelled into the calculation. The result shows what rating the property could achieve if those improvements are made.

Unlike the standard EPC recommendations section — which is generic — a Draft EPC is tailored specifically to your property and the improvements you are planning.

Who Needs a Draft EPC?

A Draft EPC is particularly useful for:

  • Landlords with F or G rated properties — planning works to meet MEES requirements before the next tenancy.
  • Landlords planning improvements — wanting to confirm which works will move the needle before committing to spend.
  • Homeowners installing solar panels or heat pumps — checking the likely EPC outcome before installation.
  • Property investors — assessing the improvement potential of a property before purchase.
  • Remortgaging applicants — some lenders offer better rates for properties rated C or above; a Draft EPC shows whether the target is achievable.
  • Grant and funding applications — some schemes require evidence of potential rating improvement.

How the Draft EPC Process Works

  1. Assessment — Jino Jose visits your property and carries out a full EPC assessment.
  2. Modelling — Proposed improvements (insulation, heating upgrades, solar panels, etc.) are modelled into the assessment software.
  3. Draft report — You receive a provisional EPC showing your current rating and the projected rating after works.
  4. Decision — You decide whether to proceed with the improvements, with clear information about the likely outcome.
  5. Final EPC — Once works are completed, a new formal EPC assessment can be carried out to lodge the updated certificate.

Draft EPC for MEES Compliance

Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), all privately rented properties in England must hold an EPC rating of E or above. Landlords with F or G rated properties are required to carry out improvements before letting.

A Draft EPC helps landlords understand exactly which improvements are needed to reach a compliant rating — and avoid spending money on works that may not make enough difference.

Draft EPC for Solar Panels and Heat Pumps

Many London homeowners and landlords are investing in renewable energy technologies. A Draft EPC can help you understand how solar panel or heat pump installations are likely to affect your EPC rating before committing to the project.

This is particularly valuable when applying for grants or funding schemes that have EPC rating thresholds.

Why Only EPCRATE Offers This in London

A Draft EPC requires an assessor who holds both the technical expertise and the accreditation to produce and model EPC assessments to a high standard. Jino Jose holds both Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) and Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) accreditations — one of the few assessors in London with this dual qualification.

This depth of knowledge allows EPCRATE to offer Draft EPC services with confidence, providing reliable projections rather than rough estimates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Draft EPC?

A Draft EPC is a provisional assessment that models how proposed energy efficiency improvements could affect a property’s EPC rating, before any works are carried out.

Is a Draft EPC the same as a standard EPC?

No. A standard EPC records the property as it currently exists and is lodged on the national register. A Draft EPC models proposed improvements and is used for planning purposes — it is not lodged as the official certificate.

Can a Draft EPC help with MEES compliance?

Yes. A Draft EPC can show landlords exactly which improvements are needed to bring an F or G rated property up to the required E rating or above, helping avoid unnecessary expenditure.

Does EPCRATE offer Draft EPC services across all London boroughs?

Yes. EPCRATE provides Draft EPC services across all 32 London boroughs. Call 020 3488 4142 to discuss your property and arrange an assessment.

Can a Draft EPC help with solar panel or heat pump grants?

A Draft EPC can help homeowners and landlords understand the likely EPC impact of renewable energy installations. As grant eligibility criteria can change, always check the latest official guidance before making decisions based on funding opportunities.

How do I book a Draft EPC in London?

Call EPCRATE on 020 3488 4142 or book online at epcrate.co.uk/booking/. Explain that you require a Draft EPC and describe the improvements you are planning — Jino will advise on the best approach for your property.

Book a Draft EPC: Call 020 3488 4142 or book online. Available across all 32 London boroughs. Founded 2015 | DEA & NDEA Accredited | ★★★★★ Trustpilot.