Booking an EPC
How to book an EPC in the UK: step by step
Quick answer
To book an EPC, find an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor, request a quote and arrange a visit. The assessor surveys the property, then lodges the certificate on the national register. It typically costs a modest fee, takes under an hour on site, and the EPC is valid for 10 years.
Booking an EPC is simple once you know the steps. This guide explains how to find an accredited assessor, what it costs, how long it takes and how to prepare the property so the visit goes smoothly.
How do I book an EPC?
Find an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) who covers your area, request a quote and book a convenient visit.
The assessor will then survey the property and lodge the certificate on the national EPC register.
Who can carry out an EPC?
Only an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor can produce a valid domestic EPC. They are trained and registered with an approved accreditation scheme.
An AI tool or a non-accredited person cannot lodge an official EPC — the certificate must be assessed and lodged by an accredited DEA.
What does it cost and how long does it take?
Costs vary by property size and location, but a domestic EPC is usually a modest one-off fee. The on-site survey typically takes under an hour for a standard home.
The table below shows the typical timescale for each stage of the process.
| Stage | Typical timescale |
|---|---|
| Find a DEA | Same day |
| Book the visit | A few days' notice |
| On-site survey | Around 30–60 minutes |
| Certificate lodged | Usually within a few days |
How long is an EPC valid?
An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date it is lodged on the register.
If your certificate has expired, or you have made improvements you want reflected, you will need a fresh assessment from an accredited DEA.
How do I prepare the property?
A little preparation helps the assessor work efficiently and capture accurate data.
- Ensure access to all rooms, the loft hatch and the heating system.
- Gather documents such as insulation, boiler or window installation records.
- Clear access to the meter and any controls the assessor needs to inspect.
- Note any recent improvements so they can be considered during the survey.
Related questions
Can I do my own EPC?
No. A valid domestic EPC must be produced and lodged by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor. You can prepare the property and gather evidence, but the assessment itself must be carried out by an accredited DEA.
How quickly can I get an EPC?
Often within a few days. Once the assessor has surveyed the property, the certificate is usually lodged on the register and available to you within a short time.
Do I need a new EPC if mine has expired?
Yes. An EPC lasts 10 years. If it has expired and you need a valid certificate to let or sell, you must book a fresh assessment with an accredited DEA.
Frequently asked questions
- What information does the assessor need on the day?
- The DEA needs access to all rooms, the loft and the heating system, plus any records of insulation, glazing or boiler installation. The more evidence you provide, the more accurately the property can be assessed.
- Is the EPC lodged automatically?
- Yes. After the survey, the accredited assessor lodges the EPC on the national register and provides you with a copy. The lodged certificate is the official record.
- How can AI-EPC help with booking an EPC?
- AI-EPC's tools are AI-assisted: they help you prepare and interpret your EPC and plan improvements. Any official EPC must still be assessed and lodged by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor — the AI supports planning, it does not replace the accredited assessor.
Keep reading
What happens during an EPC assessment
A walkthrough of the on-site survey: what the assessor checks and how long it takes.
Read guideEPC improvement costs
Indicative costs of common EPC improvements and how to budget a route to band C.
Read guideEPC ratings A–G explained
What each EPC band means, the SAP scores behind them and what counts as 'good'.
Read guide