What Does an EPC Assessor Do During a Home Visit?
If you’re booking an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for your property, you might be wondering what exactly happens during the assessment. A qualified EPC assessor carries out a detailed inspection of your home to evaluate its energy efficiency and environmental impact.
Purpose of an EPC Assessment
The main goal of an EPC assessment is to provide a clear overview of a property’s energy use, insulation levels, heating systems, and potential improvements. The resulting EPC rates the home from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years.
What to Expect During the Visit
Most EPC surveys take around 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the property. The assessor will need access to all rooms, including the loft (if accessible), boiler cupboard, and any extensions or outbuildings.
- Visual inspection of walls, floors, and ceilings for insulation
- Check of windows and glazing type (single, double, triple)
- Inspection of heating systems: boilers, radiators, and controls
- Measurement of property dimensions and layout
- Review of hot water systems and storage tanks
- Assessment of lighting types (e.g., LED, halogen)
Checklist of What an EPC Assessor Looks For
| Feature | What the Assessor Records |
|---|---|
| Insulation | Presence and thickness in lofts, walls, and floors |
| Windows | Glazing type and frame material |
| Heating System | Boiler model, age, and fuel type |
| Lighting | Percentage of low-energy (LED or CFL) lights |
| Water Heating | Hot water tank insulation and control systems |
| Ventilation | Extractor fans, flues, and passive vents |
How to Prepare for an EPC Visit
- Ensure all areas of the property are accessible
- Clear access to the loft hatch, boiler, and hot water systems
- Provide any documentation (e.g. insulation certificates, boiler manuals)
- Replace any broken lightbulbs, ideally with LEDs
What Happens After the Assessment?
After the visit, the assessor will use the collected data to generate your EPC. This includes your energy rating, estimated running costs, environmental impact, and recommended improvements. You’ll receive a digital certificate within 24 to 48 hours in most cases.
Why This Assessment Matters
- Required by law for selling or letting a property
- Helps identify ways to reduce energy costs
- Improves the value and marketability of your home
- Supports compliance with environmental standards