Energy Performance Certificates

Energy Performance Certificates Explained

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives you a clear picture of how efficiently a property uses energy and is a legal requirement when selling or letting in most cases. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or property professional, having the right assessor makes the process straightforward and ensures accurate, reliable results.

I’m Dominic Bowkett, a building surveyor providing EPC assessments across Kent, Sussex and South East London. With particular experience working with older and traditionally constructed buildings, I deliver clear, practical certificates and advice that help you understand your property, meet legal requirements and plan future improvements with confidence.

What is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate rates a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

The certificate includes:
An overall energy efficiency rating
Estimated running costs
Environmental impact information
Recommendations for improving performance

An EPC is valid for 10 years, though many owners choose to update earlier after carrying out improvement works.

What happens during an EPC visit?

An EPC inspection is straightforward and normally takes around 30–60 minutes depending on the size and layout of the property.

During the visit I will:
Measure and record the property layout
Assess walls, insulation and construction type
Check heating systems and controls
Record windows and glazing
Review lighting and fixed services
Gather the data required for the national EPC register

The inspection is non-invasive — there is no drilling or damage — and once complete your EPC is produced and officially lodged on the government register.

You will receive a clear certificate alongside practical recommendations where relevant.

EPCs and older or traditional buildings

Many properties across the South East are period or traditionally constructed homes. These buildings often behave differently from modern housing, particularly when it comes to insulation, moisture movement and energy efficiency.

As a building surveyor with specialist experience in older and traditional buildings, I understand how these properties perform and how they should be assessed within EPC methodology. This helps ensure assessments are accurate and appropriate, rather than relying on generic assumptions.

Why EPCs are required by law

In England and Wales, an EPC is legally required when:

Selling a property
Letting a property
Completing a new build

Landlords must also comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which were introduced to improve rental housing quality and reduce energy use.

In most situations, a property must have a valid EPC before it is marketed for sale or rent.

Landlord requirements and potential fines

If you are renting out a property, it is important to stay compliant.

Current rules generally require rental properties to have a minimum EPC rating of E, unless an official exemption applies.

Local authorities can issue penalties where landlords fail to comply. These can include:
Financial penalties of up to £5,000 per property under current regulations
Publication of non-compliance on the national register

Having a current EPC helps avoid delays, disputes and enforcement issues.

Planned EPC changes for rental properties by 2030

Government policy is moving towards higher efficiency standards in the private rented sector.

While final legislation is still subject to confirmation, the current direction of travel indicates:
Rental properties are expected to require a minimum EPC rating of C by 2030.

For many landlords, this will mean planning upgrades over the coming years. Obtaining an EPC now helps you understand your starting point and identify practical improvements early, rather than facing last-minute pressure.

Areas covered

EPC assessments are available across:
Kent
East and West Sussex
South East London

Including Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Bromley, Bexley, Lewisham and surrounding areas.

Why choose me for your EPC?

Qualified building surveyor
Specialist expertise in older and traditional buildings
Clear, professional reporting
Reliable and efficient service
Straightforward advice you can actually use

My aim is to make the EPC process simple while giving you confidence that the assessment is accurate and professionally carried out.

Book your EPC

If you need an Energy Performance Certificate for a sale, letting or compliance requirement, I’m happy to help.

Get in touch to arrange your EPC or discuss your property.