Average EPC Cost in 2026
The average cost of a domestic EPC in the UK in 2026 is between £50 and £80 for a standard three-bedroom house. However, prices vary significantly based on property size, location, and the assessor you choose.
Here's a quick overview of typical prices:
| Property Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bed flat | £35–£55 |
| 2-bed flat or terraced house | £45–£65 |
| 3-bed semi-detached | £50–£80 |
| 4-bed detached house | £70–£100 |
| 5+ bed / large property | £90–£120+ |
These figures are based on market averages across England and Wales. Your actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your specific location and the assessor.
Cost by Property Type
Property size is the single biggest factor in EPC cost. Larger properties take longer to assess because the assessor needs to measure more rooms, check more windows, and inspect more complex heating systems.
Flats and apartments are the cheapest to assess (£35–£55) because they're typically smaller and have simpler heating arrangements. Many flats share heating systems, which simplifies the assessment.
Mid-terraced houses are straightforward because the assessor only needs to consider two external walls. Semi-detached homes have three external walls, and detached properties have four, each increasing the assessment complexity.
Large or unusual properties — think conversions, listed buildings, homes with extensions, or properties with multiple heating systems — cost more because they take longer and require more expertise. A sprawling Victorian villa will cost considerably more than a modern-build three-bed semi.
Cost by Region
EPC prices vary across the UK, primarily driven by the cost of living, assessor availability, and travel requirements.
| Region | Average EPC Cost |
|---|---|
| London | £60–£100 |
| South East England | £55–£90 |
| South West England | £50–£80 |
| East of England | £50–£80 |
| West Midlands | £45–£75 |
| East Midlands | £45–£70 |
| Yorkshire & Humber | £40–£70 |
| North West | £40–£70 |
| North East | £35–£65 |
| Wales | £40–£70 |
| Scotland | £45–£75 |
London consistently has the highest EPC costs, reflecting higher operating costs for assessors. Rural areas can also be more expensive than you'd expect because assessors need to factor in longer travel times.
What Affects the Price?
Several factors influence how much you'll pay:
- Property size: The biggest factor. More rooms and more floor area means a longer assessment.
- Location: Urban areas with more competition tend to be cheaper. London is the exception due to high operating costs.
- Property complexity: Extensions, conversions, unusual construction types, and multiple heating systems all increase the time needed.
- Assessor availability: Peak times (spring/summer selling season) may see higher prices due to demand.
- Accreditation scheme fees: Assessors pay annual fees to their accreditation body, which are factored into their pricing.
- Travel distance: If the assessor needs to travel far, this adds to the cost.
- Urgency: Need an EPC tomorrow? Expect to pay a premium for rush jobs.
Who Pays for the EPC?
When selling: The seller pays. It's the seller's legal responsibility to have a valid EPC before marketing. Some estate agents include the EPC in their fee package — always ask. If an agent charges separately, compare their price with booking your own assessor directly.
When renting: The landlord pays. Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019 in England, this cost cannot be passed on to tenants. The landlord must provide a copy of the EPC free of charge.
New builds: The developer pays for the EPC as part of the building completion process.
Checking Your Existing EPC — Free
Before you spend money on a new assessment, check whether your property already has a valid EPC. EPCs last 10 years, and if yours was done within that period, you may not need a new one.
You can check for free using:
- Our search tool: Search by postcode to find your property's EPC.
- The official register: epc.opendatacommunities.org
If you have a valid EPC, you only need a new one if you've made significant improvements and want an updated rating, or if the existing certificate has expired.
Check If You Already Have a Valid EPC
Search for free — you might already have one and not need to pay for a new assessment.
Search by Postcode →Finding an EPC Assessor
EPC assessments must be carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) registered with an accreditation scheme. The main schemes in the UK are:
- Elmhurst Energy — one of the largest accreditation bodies
- Quidos — widely used, searchable assessor database
- Stroma — another major scheme with an online assessor finder
- ECMK — specialises in both domestic and commercial EPCs
You can also find assessors through comparison websites, local directories, and recommendations from estate agents or landlord networks. Always check that the assessor is properly accredited before booking.
How to Save Money on Your EPC
- Compare quotes: Get at least three quotes. Prices can vary by 50% or more between assessors in the same area.
- Book online: Many assessors offer lower prices for bookings made through their website, as it reduces admin.
- Choose local: A local assessor has lower travel costs, which often means lower prices for you.
- Bulk booking: If you're a landlord with multiple properties, many assessors offer discounts for batch bookings.
- Avoid rush jobs: Book in advance rather than paying for an urgent same-day or next-day visit.
- Skip the estate agent: Agents often mark up EPC costs. Book directly with an assessor for better prices.
Is an EPC Worth the Cost?
Absolutely — and not just because it's a legal requirement. An EPC provides valuable insights into your property's energy performance and identifies specific improvements that could save you hundreds per year.
Consider this: a £60 EPC assessment might reveal that £300 of loft insulation could save you £200 per year in energy bills. That's a return on investment within months, and you'd never have known without the assessment.
For sellers, a good EPC rating makes your property more attractive and can add thousands to the sale price. For landlords, it's essential for legal compliance and can justify higher rents for more energy-efficient properties.