Frequently Asked Questions

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An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. After that, the certificate can still be viewed on the government register, but it can no longer be used legally when selling or renting the property.

Absolutely! You can order a new EPC at any time. Major improvements such as loft/wall insulation, a new boiler, double/triple glazing, or solar panels often raise the rating significantly. A higher score can make your property easier and quicker to sell or let, so the new certificate frequently pays for itself.

If the assessor can’t physically see or access something (e.g. a locked loft hatch, concealed cavity wall, or cellar), the government-approved software has to make an “assumption” based on the age and type of the property.

Typical examples:

• No access to loft → assumed no insulation

• Cavity wall with no paperwork → assumed empty

DIY improvements supported only by photos or receipts cannot be used as evidence – the assessor must personally see and record everything (auditors check geotagged photos).

A small flat or studio can take as little as 20 minutes. A typical 3-bed house usually takes 30–45 minutes, and larger or more complex properties up to an hour. We work efficiently but thoroughly.

EPC scoring is extremely detailed – it records wall construction, insulation thickness, glazing gaps, exact boiler model, thermostat/TRV types, number of low-energy bulbs, and dozens of other factors. The result is produced by government-approved software, so the score is very rarely incorrect. We’re always happy to go through the report with you and explain how each element affected the final rating.

“Very Good” for windows normally requires triple glazing with low-emissivity (low-E) glass such as Pilkington K or similar. Standard double glazing, even when brand new, does not quite meet the threshold for “Very Good” in the current software.

All of the photos taken will be held for the duration of the EPC (10yrs), this is to ensure that there is evidence of that snapshot in time of what the assessor had scored the property against.

*There will be no photos of people or personal items taken or stored.

* You may ask to view the photos while the assessor is on site or at any time after the survey is completed.

*We cannot delete any photos after the survey as they could be needed as evidence for an audit.

Government rules require an adult (18+) to be present for surveys on occupied/furnished properties. We’re happy to survey empty or void properties without anyone present if you prefer.

The EPC calculation software is updated regularly to reflect the latest research and government standards. Sometimes an older heating system or insulation type is downgraded in the new version, which can outweigh recent improvements. We’re always happy to explain exactly why the score changed.

Not always as much as you might expect. The EPC is calculated on the cheapest running cost to heat and light the home. Many modern electric-based systems (infrared panels, standard heat pumps) are treated the same as conventional electric heating unless paired with on-site renewables (solar PV, wind turbine, etc.). We can advise the most cost-effective upgrades for your particular property.

The on-site visit is only part of the job. The fee also covers:

• Background research (FENSA certificates, planning records, satellite imagery, etc.)

• Detailed data entry and calculation

• Software & government lodgement fees

• Travel time and vehicle costs

• Ongoing training and accreditation

• Insurance and audit compliance

You’re paying for expertise and a legally valid certificate, not just the time spent inside.

Got another question? Call or WhatsApp 07947 33 20 20 – we’re happy to help!