An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessment is a quick and straightforward process that evaluates the energy efficiency of a property. Whether you are selling, renting, or leasing a building, an EPC inspection is required before the property can be legally marketed in the UK.
Most EPC assessments are completed quickly, and the certificate is normally issued within 24 hours after the inspection.
How Long Does an EPC Assessment Take?
The duration of an EPC inspection depends on the size and type of property.
Typical timeframes include:
Domestic properties (houses, flats, apartments): 30–40 minutes
Small commercial properties: 45–60 minutes
Large commercial buildings: 1–3 hours or more
Smaller homes usually take less time because the systems and layout are simpler, while larger commercial buildings require more detailed analysis.
What Happens During an EPC Inspection?
During the visit, an accredited EPC assessor will examine several parts of the property to calculate its energy efficiency rating.
The assessor will evaluate:
Heating systems and controls
The type of boiler, heating controls, and radiators used in the property.
Insulation levels
Loft insulation, wall insulation, and floor insulation where accessible.
Windows and glazing
Single, double, or triple glazing and the condition of window frames.
Hot water systems
Water heaters, cylinders, and energy efficiency of the system.
Lighting efficiency
The use of energy-efficient lighting such as LED bulbs.
Property size and construction
Floor area, building materials, and overall structure.
The assessor will also take measurements, photographs, and notes required for the EPC calculation.
What Happens After the Assessment?
After the inspection:
The collected data is entered into government-approved EPC software.
The system calculates the energy rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
The certificate is uploaded to the official UK EPC register.
Most EPC certificates are issued within 24 hours of the inspection.
What Information Does an EPC Include?
An EPC report contains important information about the property’s energy performance, including:
Current energy efficiency rating
Potential future rating after improvements
Estimated energy costs
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions
Recommended improvements to increase efficiency
These recommendations can help property owners reduce energy bills and improve their EPC rating.
How Long Is an EPC Valid?
An EPC is valid for 10 years in the UK.
However, many property owners choose to update their EPC sooner if they:
Install new insulation
Upgrade heating systems
Replace windows
Improve overall energy efficiency
Updating the certificate can help achieve a higher energy rating, which may make the property more attractive to buyers or tenants.
Book an EPC Assessment
Professional EPC assessors provide fast and reliable inspections for both domestic and commercial properties.
Book your EPC assessment:
https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/
View EPC pricing:
https://epcrate.co.uk/pricing/
Contact EPC specialists:
https://epcrate.co.uk/contact-us-epc-services-london/
EPCRate Contact Details
150–160 City Road
London, EC1V 2NX
020 3488 4142
info@epcrate.co.uk
