Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) for new-build homes

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

EPCs were introduced in 2007. They rate a property’s energy efficiency, estimate its carbon emissions and suggest ways to reduce them. They give your home a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient), so you can estimate how much your utilities could cost.

Once issued, an EPC rating is valid for 10 years. It can cost up to £120, but you may be able to get a cheaper deal by going directly to a domestic energy assessor.

Most David Wilson homes have an EPC rating of A or B, meaning they’re highly energy efficient. They boast smart cavity walls and argon-filled double-glazing, so you can keep yourself warm without breaking the bank. Learn more about the benefits and features of our energy-efficient homes in our guide.

What is the purpose of an EPC?

An EPC provides transparent information about a property’s energy efficiency and running costs. This allows you to compare homes before committing to buying and can protect you from unexpected costs after moving in.

Legal requirements for new builds

Building regulations set by the UK government require new builds to meet minimum energy efficiency standards, reflected in their EPC rating. By law, sellers must provide a valid EPC before marketing any property. A new build EPC must be displayed in marketing materials and provided to prospective buyers during viewings, helping them understand the energy performance of their potential new home.

What does an EPC include?

An EPC certificate is four pages long and usually includes the following information:

• The home’s estimated energy costs

• The property’s energy efficiency rating (current and potential)

• Actions you can take to save money and make your home more energy efficient

• A summary of the home’s energy performance-related features, such as the roof, walls, windows, floor construction and more

• Recommended energy-saving measures – including those that might be eligible for government support

• Alternative measures

• Assessor information

• The home’s CO2 emissions rating

• The home’s heat demand

Why EPCs matter for new-build homes

Understanding your new build EPC can help you to anticipate running costs once you move in. They are also a strong indicator of the energy efficiency advantages of new builds compared to older properties.

Benefits of high EPC ratings

• High EPC ratings, such as A or B, can mean lower monthly energy bills. A-rated homes can cost 27% less to run annually than properties rated D or below1

• A new build energy performance certificate that shows excellent efficiency often makes properties more attractive to buyers. This can support resale value and may reduce the time spent on the market when selling

• Great EPC ratings for new-build homes can indicate comfortable living environments. This may mean consistent temperatures, minimal draughts and excellent insulation throughout

• High ratings can reduce carbon footprints. New build homes may emit up to 74% less carbon a year2

• A new build EPC can offer peace of mind. The better the rating, the more likely your home is to meet modern standards without requiring immediate efficiency improvements

Impact on energy bills and running costs

The difference between EPC ratings often translates to cost variations. The average new build with an A or B rating can save up to £618 a year in running costs compared to an older property with an F or G rating, thanks to improvements in window glazing, insulation and more.3

Understanding EPC ratings and bands

An EPC has two rating charts. The numbers in each rating reflect the government’s Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) and range from 1 to 100 SAP points.

EPC rating scale explained (A to G)

The bands are divided into scores as follows:

• EPC rating A: 92-100 SAP points (most efficient)

• EPC rating B: 81-91 SAP points

• EPC rating C: 69-80 SAP points

• EPC rating D: 55-68 SAP points

• EPC rating E: 39-54 SAP points

• EPC rating F: 21-38 SAP points

• EPC rating G: 1-20 SAP points (least efficient)

What EPC rating can you expect for a new build?

If you want to live in an energy-efficient home, new build properties may be the best option. Fewer than 5% of existing older properties achieve an A or B Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, while 87% of new builds do.4

How to improve EPC ratings

Most new build EPC ratings are already excellent, but further improvements remain possible for homes rated B seeking A status:

• Installing solar panels can generate renewable electricity and potentially improve EPC ratings, whilst reducing bills and carbon emissions

• Upgrading to heat pumps instead of gas boilers can help efficiency, though new builds may already feature optimal heating systems

• Adding smart thermostats and heating controls can optimise energy usage without a costly investment

• Enhanced insulation in specific areas like loft spaces can improve EPC ratings, though new builds generally already use comprehensive insulation

How to get your EPC for a new-build home

When and how you receive your new build energy performance certificate can ensure that you have essential information before completing your purchase and moving in.

When is the EPC issued?

An EPC for a new-build home is issued once construction is complete, before the property is marketed or sold to buyers. Developers commission assessments after final building control sign-off, ensuring ratings reflect the completed property's actual specifications. Your new build EPC should be available during viewings, allowing you to review efficiency ratings before reserving your property.

Who produces the EPC?

Accredited domestic energy assessors issue a new build energy performance certificate after inspecting completed properties and evaluating construction specifications. These qualified professionals assess insulation, heating systems, glazing and other efficiency factors to calculate the EPC rating.

Developers arrange and pay for assessments, but assessors operate independently to ensure accurate, unbiased ratings. Assessors must be registered with approved accreditation schemes and maintain professional standards.

How to access your EPC document

Your developer should provide a copy of the EPC at completion, typically with other property documentation. You can also access any property's EPC online through the government's official EPC register by entering the postcode. The EPC for new-build homes usually remains on the public register for its 10-year validity period and is accessible to future buyers when you sell. After 10 years, your EPC needs to be renewed.

If you’re interested in energy-efficient living, a spacious and stylish David Wilson home with an impressive EPC rating could be what you’re looking for.

Discover unique homebuying offers to help you move, including Part Exchange, Bank of Family and Deposit Boost. Call or visit our Sales Advisers today to kickstart your journey to home ownership.