EPC for New Builds: What You Need to Know
03/04/2025
If you’re constructing a new home in the UK, you’ll need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for new builds before the property can be marketed or occupied. While EPCs are commonly associated with existing homes, they’re equally important and legally required for new properties. This guide explains everything you need to know about EPCs for new builds, from how they’re generated to when you need to apply for one.
An EPC is a document that shows how energy efficient a building is. It includes a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with recommendations for improving the rating. The certificate also includes key information on estimated energy use, CO2 emissions, and potential cost savings.
For existing homes, EPCs are usually based on a visual inspection. For new builds, they are generated from data collected during a SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) assessment. This ensures the EPC is based on actual design specifications and as-built conditions. As a result, EPCs for new builds tend to be more accurate and tailored to the unique energy systems in place.
All new dwellings in the UK are legally required to have an EPC for new builds before they are sold or rented. This requirement is part of the government’s effort to improve energy efficiency in housing and reduce carbon emissions. Without an EPC, Building Control cannot issue a final sign-off, and you won’t be able to legally put the property on the market.
In addition to fulfilling legal requirements, a high EPC rating can increase the value of a property and make it more attractive to potential buyers. Many prospective homeowners are now actively seeking properties with good energy efficiency due to increasing energy costs and environmental concerns. Therefore, having a strong EPC rating can give your property a competitive edge.
For new builds, the EPC is produced at the end of the construction process. After the as-built SAP assessment is completed and all final specifications are confirmed, the EPC is generated using that data.
In most cases, the EPC is issued alongside the completion certificate. To avoid delays, it’s important to ensure the SAP process is started early in the build, and any documentation is kept up to date. Involving your assessor at an early stage helps identify and address any potential issues well before construction finishes.
The EPC for a new build includes:
This information provides a clear picture of the property’s energy profile. It helps prospective occupants understand what to expect in terms of running costs and environmental performance. It also demonstrates your compliance with national building standards.
EPCs for new builds must be produced by accredited SAP assessors. They use government-approved software and follow strict quality assurance procedures. A domestic energy assessor without SAP qualifications cannot issue an EPC for a newly constructed property.
At SAP Assessment, we have qualified professionals who can manage both the SAP assessment and EPC generation, ensuring accuracy and compliance from start to finish. By working with the same team throughout the process, you can reduce delays, minimise errors, and streamline communication.
To produce an EPC for a new build, your assessor will need:
In some cases, you may also need to supply manufacturer datasheets or installation certificates for key systems. These documents help your assessor verify performance details and support the final calculations.
Once the final as-built data is provided, the EPC for new builds can usually be completed within a few working days. However, delays often occur when documentation is missing or if changes were made during construction that weren’t reflected in the original SAP design.
To avoid these issues, communicate any design or material changes with your assessor as early as possible. Keeping records updated throughout the build will make the final assessment far more efficient.
An EPC for new builds is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. If the property is not sold or rented during that period, a new certificate may not be needed unless building work is carried out that could affect the rating.
That said, if energy upgrades are made within that timeframe, commissioning a new EPC can highlight those improvements and make the property more marketable. In today’s market, a higher EPC rating can be a strong selling point.
Getting an EPC for new builds is a crucial part of the construction and compliance process. It’s not just a formality, it ensures your home meets national energy standards and provides future occupants with valuable insight into their likely energy costs.
To avoid complications, it’s best to work with a professional team that can manage the full process from SAP assessment through to EPC generation. At SAP Assessment, we’re here to help ensure your new build meets all required regulations quickly and efficiently. Moreover, our team is always available to guide you through each step, offering expert advice that saves time and reduces stress.
To get started or ask any questions, visit our Contact Us page. You can also learn more about our SAP Assessments and EPC Certificates services.
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