Having an energy efficient property not only helps reduce your CO2 emissions but it can often help you save money on your energy bills!
Did you know there may be schemes available to help you improve your property's energy efficiency?
We asked Financial Adviser Nath Mallery to tell us more -
If you are selling a property, renting out a property or building a new property - you MUST have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This should be done before marketing your property sale or rental.
Just in case it got a little jargon-y too quickly, let’s take it back to basics…
What is an EPC?
“An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) tells you how energy efficient a property is… rating from A (best) to G (worst) and is valid for 10 years.” – Gov.uk
An Energy Performance Certificate focusses primarily on how much carbon dioxide a property produces each year. Therefore the report includes information including -
There are benefits to having an EPC for both the property owner/s and the person or persons interested in purchasing or renting the property.
The purpose of the certificate is to highlight how energy efficient a property currently is and gives an indication as to what can be done to make it more economical, help improve the environment and ideally save the owner, buyer and/or the tenant money on their energy bills.
Why do you need an EPC?
You can be fined if you do not have a valid EPC when you need one!
2mtrust Mortgage Advisers and Paraplanners are familiar with the mortgage application processes and we have excellent experience working with Portfolio Landlords. They work hard to ensure all the necessary documentation, including your EPC, is in place – as well as appropriate Insurance. This is especially important for Portfolio Landlords, as EPC compliance is a key part of property management.
Your 2mtrust Mortgage Adviser will also be able to advise on whether you qualify for an Energy Efficient Mortgage which may come with some benefits (for example: cashback or lower rates). These are specifically for properties that have a higher rating and is therefore worth considering if you are looking make improvements to a property.
How to Check if Your Property Has an EPC
Unsure if your property has a valid EPC? You can check online at Gov.uk or ask your 2mtrust Financial Adviser during your next appointment.
Are Energy Performance Certificates the same across the UK?
A valid EPC is mandatory across the UK when selling, renting out or building a new property. However, in Scotland you must display the EPC somewhere in the property - such as in the meter cupboard or near the boiler.
For full details, including exceptions where an EPC may not be required, visit Gov.uk
How can you improve your property’s efficiency rating?
An EPC provides recommendations for enhancing a property’s energy efficiency. While you’re not required to implement them all, they can significantly improve both your property’s environmental impact and your energy costs.
Some suggestions may be things like:
Can you get financial help for Energy Efficiency Improvements?
Eligible property owners may qualify for financial assistance to make energy-saving improvements.
There are some government schemes available in the UK which are worth looking into.
Some of the schemes cover things like:
To learn more visit Gov.uk or have a chat with your 2mtrust Mortgage Adviser at your next appointment – we’re always happy to help!
-------------------------------------------------------------
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP WITH REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE
MOST BUY TO LET MORTGAGES ARE NOT REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY (FCA)
Reapproved by The Openwork Partnership on 19/03/2026
