An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a legal requirement when you sell or let a property in Portsmouth. It rates your home's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate shows potential buyers or tenants how much it will cost to heat and light your property. You'll need one before marketing your home, and it's valid for 10 years.

The average EPC rating in Portsmouth is D, though around 60% of properties fall below EPC C. This reflects the age of many Portsmouth homes, with most being mid-20th century properties that weren't built with modern energy efficiency standards. If your property is rated D or lower, you may want to consider improvements to make it more attractive to buyers or tenants.

The most recommended improvement for Portsmouth properties is loft insulation, which is cost-effective and can make a significant difference to your energy rating. Other improvements include cavity wall insulation, upgrading to a modern boiler, installing double glazing, and adding draught-proofing. Your EPC certificate will include specific recommendations tailored to your property. Even mid-20th century houses can achieve better ratings with the right upgrades.

EPC certificates in Portsmouth typically cost between £60 and £120, depending on your property size and the assessor you choose. As a homeowner or landlord, you're responsible for paying for the certificate. It's a one-time cost that's valid for 10 years, so it's a worthwhile investment before selling or letting your property.

A poor EPC rating can impact your property's appeal and potentially its value, as buyers and tenants are increasingly concerned about energy costs. However, many Portsmouth properties have lower ratings due to their age, so it's not necessarily a deal-breaker. Highlighting planned improvements like loft insulation can help. If you're letting the property, note that from April 2020, landlords cannot let properties rated below E without an exemption.