Selling or renting a property?
If so, you’ll usually need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before you can legally market your home. An EPC gives your property an energy efficiency rating and provides recommendations that could help reduce energy bills.
So, how much does an EPC certificate cost in 2026?
Across the UK, an EPC certificate typically costs between £60 and £150, depending on the size, location and type of property.
Here’s everything you need to know before booking.
EPC certificate costs at a glance
| Property type | Estimated 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Flat | £60–£90 |
| 1–2 bedroom house | £70–£100 |
| 3–4 bedroom house | £80–£120 |
| Large house | £100–£150+ |
| Commercial EPC | £150–£500+ |
These are average UK prices and may vary depending on your location.
What affects the cost?
Property size
Larger homes take longer to inspect, which usually means higher assessment fees.
Property location
EPC assessments are generally more expensive in:
- London
- South East England
- Remote rural locations
Competition between assessors can also influence local prices.
Property type
Some properties require more detailed assessments, including:
- Listed buildings (where applicable)
- Large detached homes
- Commercial buildings
- Mixed-use properties
These often cost more than standard residential properties.
What does the price usually include?
Most EPC assessments include:
✔ Property inspection
✔ Energy efficiency assessment
✔ Official EPC certificate
✔ Energy efficiency rating (A to G)
✔ Recommendations for improving efficiency
Most certificates are delivered digitally within 24–48 hours after the inspection.
How long is an EPC valid?
An EPC is valid for 10 years.
If your property already has a valid EPC, you usually won’t need to pay for a new one until it expires unless you choose to obtain an updated certificate.
Is an EPC a legal requirement?
In most cases, yes.
You’ll normally need a valid EPC if you’re:
- Selling a property
- Renting out a property
- Building a new home
Some properties may be exempt, such as certain listed buildings or temporary structures, depending on the circumstances.
What happens during an EPC assessment?
An accredited assessor will inspect features including:
- Insulation
- Heating system
- Boiler
- Windows
- Lighting
- Property size and layout
The visit usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the size of the property.
What do the EPC ratings mean?
Properties receive a rating from A to G.
| Rating | Meaning |
| A | Most energy efficient |
| B | Very efficient |
| C | Good efficiency |
| D | Average efficiency |
| E | Below average |
| F | Poor efficiency |
| G | Least efficient |
A better EPC rating may make your property more attractive to buyers and tenants because of the potential for lower energy bills.
How to improve your EPC rating
An assessor may recommend improvements such as:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Double glazing
- LED lighting
- Modern boiler
- Solar panels
- Heat pump installation
Making energy-efficiency improvements could improve your property’s future EPC rating.
How to save money
Compare several assessors
Always obtain at least three quotes.
Prices can vary considerably, even within the same area.
Check if you already have a valid EPC
Before booking a new assessment, confirm whether your property’s existing certificate is still valid.
Book early
If you’re planning to sell or rent your property, arrange the EPC before listing it to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an EPC certificate cost?
Most homeowners pay between £60 and £150, depending on the property’s size and location.
How long does an EPC inspection take?
Most residential assessments take 30–60 minutes.
Can I sell my house without an EPC?
In most cases, no.
You’ll usually need a valid EPC before marketing your property unless an exemption applies.
How long is an EPC valid?
An EPC remains valid for 10 years from the date it is issued.
Final thoughts
An EPC is a legal requirement for most property sales and rentals and provides valuable information about your home’s energy efficiency.
Although the assessment is relatively inexpensive, comparing local assessors and checking whether you already have a valid certificate can help you avoid unnecessary costs.
Before booking, compare quotes, read genuine customer reviews and choose an accredited assessor with a strong local reputation.
Find a trusted EPC assessor
Need an EPC certificate?
Use The Right Guy to compare trusted local EPC assessors and domestic energy assessors, read genuine customer reviews and request quotes before booking your inspection.
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Author: The Right Guy Team
UK service guides published by The Right Guy Ltd.