Property surveys. Simplified.

What is an EPC and when do I legally need one?

An Energy Performance Certificate rates a property’s energy efficiency from A to G. You need a valid one whenever a property is sold or let, and it lasts ten years. It must be commissioned before marketing begins.

What rating does my rental property need?

Privately rented properties in England and Wales currently need at least an E unless a valid exemption applies. The government plans to raise the minimum to C by 2030, which is why forward-thinking landlords are getting assessed and improving now rather than in the rush.

How long does an EPC visit take and when do I get the certificate?

Usually 45 minutes to an hour on site depending on the property. The certificate is normally lodged on the national register within 24-48 hours, and we send you the link as soon as it’s live.

What affects my rating most?

Insulation, the heating system and its controls, glazing, and hot water arrangements carry the most weight. Evidence matters too. If you can show documentation for improvements like cavity wall insulation, the assessment can take them into account.

Does every flat in a block need its own EPC?

Yes. An EPC is per dwelling, so each flat needs its own certificate. For blocks and portfolios we offer discounted rates when units are booked together.

My property is below E. What are my options?

Usually the gap is smaller than people fear. We identify the cheapest route to compliance, and where improvements genuinely aren’t viable we can advise on the exemptions regime and what evidence it requires.

What is PAS 2035 and when does it apply?

PAS 2035:2023 is the British standard governing how domestic retrofit projects are assessed, designed, installed and handed over. Any retrofit delivered through a government-funded scheme must follow it, managed by a qualified Retrofit Coordinator.

What funding is available for energy improvements?

ECO4 runs until 31 December 2026 and is not being replaced. After that the main routes are the Warm Homes Local Grant, which councils run for lower income households in homes rated D to G, and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which pays a grant towards a heat pump. The Great British Insulation Scheme closed in March 2026. Eligibility depends on the property and the occupants, and we tell you honestly what’s realistic before anything is committed.

What areas do you cover?

Liverpool, Merseyside and the North West as standard. Portfolio work further afield is regularly arranged, just ask when you book.

Why isn’t the quote free?

Because a free quote is a salesman with a meter. Our £250 Property Survey gives you damp readings, a ventilation check, a hazard screen and a written report you can hand to any contractor, plus a costed proposal. Go ahead with us and the fee is credited in full against the works.

Do I have to use your contractors?

No. The proposal is yours to keep. The survey fee is only credited if the works proceed with us.

What can you do with the survey afterwards?

Quite a lot. Tender packs, EPC to C plans, heat loss calculations for heat pumps, HHSRS hazard reports and monthly compliance tracking for landlords, all built from the same visit. See After Your Survey.

How do I book?

Use the booking form on this site, call 0777 888 80 80, or email info@actnowenergy.co.uk. We confirm the appointment and price before the visit, with no extras on the day.