What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and why does it matter?

What an EPC actually is

An Energy Performance Certificate provides:

• An energy rating from A to G - A is the most efficient, G is the least.
• Estimated energy costs for heating, lighting and hot water.
• Suggested improvements (for example, insulation, boiler upgrades, double glazing).
• Environmental impact in terms of CO₂ emissions.
• A validity period of 10 years from the date of issue.

EPCs must be carried out by an accredited domestic energy assessor. The certificate becomes part of the public register, so buyers, tenants and agents can easily check it.

When you legally need an EPC

• When selling - every home going on the market must have a valid EPC.
• When letting a property - landlords must provide tenants with the EPC before a tenancy begins.
• When building or converting - a new build or conversion requires a new EPC.

Homes already occupied do not require an EPC unless being sold, newly let, or significantly altered.

What an EPC measures

The assessor looks at a wide range of features, including:

• Wall, floor and roof insulation levels
• Heating system type and efficiency
• Hot water and boiler performance
• Window glazing type
• Lighting efficiency
• Renewable technologies (solar panels, heat pumps)

The final score reflects the overall energy performance, not just one feature - which is why two houses of similar size can achieve very different ratings.

Why EPCs matter for sellers

Buyers increasingly consider running costs and environmental impact. A stronger EPC rating can:

• Boost buyer interest - energy-efficient homes often sell faster.
• Improve saleability - especially for newer or well-maintained properties.
• Increase perceived value - buyers may pay more for a home with lower long-term energy bills.
• Help you stand out - clear, modern documentation builds trust.

Even if you're not selling immediately, improving your EPC can preserve long-term value.

Why EPCs matter for buyers

For buyers, an EPC is more than a box-ticking exercise. It helps you:

• Compare running costs across properties.
• Identify future upgrade needs such as insulation or new heating systems.
• Understand long-term affordability beyond the mortgage payment.
• Plan renovation budgets realistically.

An EPC won't tell you everything about condition - but it is a reliable guide to expected energy performance.

Why EPCs matter for landlords

EPCs are especially important for landlords because energy standards are tightening. Even though the previous government paused plans to require EPC C for all rentals by 2028, the Renters' Rights Bill indicates that:

• The government still intends to raise minimum standards for rental homes.
• The new PRS Database (landlord register) will likely record EPC ratings and compliance status.
• Local authorities may use EPC data to enforce minimum housing standards.
• Homes with very low EPC ratings may face greater scrutiny or mandatory improvement plans in the future.

In short: EPC performance already affects whether you can legally let a property - and this importance is expected to increase.

How EPCs link to the new Renters' Rights Bill

The Renters' Rights Bill proposes sweeping changes to the private rented sector. In the context of energy performance, the following points matter:

• New national landlord database: EPC details will form part of each landlord's registered property profile.
• Decent Homes Standard for private rentals: Energy efficiency is a major part of the Decent Homes framework.
• Transparency for tenants: Tenants will be able to check EPCs alongside a landlord's compliance record.
• Enforcement tools for local councils: Poor EPC performance may trigger inspections, improvement notices or compliance checks.

The government has not finalised future minimum EPC requirements, but most industry experts expect tighter rules to return in the coming years, especially in colder or energy-inefficient regions.

Improving your EPC rating: the key steps

Even small upgrades can move a home from E to D, or from D to C. Common improvements include:

• Loft and cavity wall insulation
• Upgrading an old boiler to a modern condensing model
• Installing smart heating controls
• Double or triple glazing
• Improved draught proofing
• LED lighting throughout
• Solar panels or air source heat pumps (bigger investment)

An EPC improvement plan can also make your home more comfortable, reduce bills and boost long-term value.

North West perspective: why EPCs matter locally

In areas across Lancashire, Cumbria and the wider North West, many properties are older, stone-built or rural - meaning they can be naturally less efficient. Improving EPC performance can:

• Make homes cheaper to run in colder months.
• Increase appeal to buyers prioritising sustainability.
• Help landlords stay ahead of future regulations.
• Strengthen marketing when selling or letting.

How Farrell Heyworth can help

At Farrell Heyworth, we guide sellers, buyers and landlords through all aspects of EPCs. We can:

• Check whether your EPC is still valid or needs renewing.
• Recommend trusted local assessors.
• Explain improvement options for boosting your rating.
• Help landlords stay compliant under changing legislation.
• Show buyers how EPC details affect running costs and long-term value.

Your EPC is more than a legal requirement - it's a powerful indicator of running costs, comfort and sustainability. With upcoming changes under the Renters' Rights Bill and increasing focus on efficiency, understanding your EPC has never mattered more. Whether you're selling, buying or letting, a strong EPC rating helps you protect value, attract interest and stay compliant in a changing market.