The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) requires that all dwellings have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) when they are marketed for sale or to let.

 

The EPC is broadly similar to the labels now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines. Its purpose is to record how energy efficient a property is as a building. The certificate will give a rating of the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of a building from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is inefficient.

 

EPCs are produced using standard methods with standard assumptions about energy usage so that the energy efficiency of one building can easily be compared with another building of the same type. This allows prospective buyers, tenants, owners, occupiers, and purchasers to see information on the energy efficiency and carbon emissions from the building so they can consider energy efficiency and fuel costs as part of their investment.