Since 1 October 2008, all properties - homes, commercial and public buildings - when bought, sold, built or rented out, are legally required to have an EPC.

An EPC gives owners, sellers, tenants and buyers information on the energy efficiency of the property. It gives the building a standard energy and carbon emission efficiency grade from 'A' to 'G' - where 'A' is best. It also gives advice on cost effective improvements to improve the current rating. The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings.

Sellers of newly built properties which are still in construction or sold 'off-plan' will have to provide a predicted energy assessment (PEA). A full EPC must be provided to the buyer when the property is physically completed.

Click here for a Sample EPC

Click here for further information about EPCs