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How to Challenge an Incorrect EPC Rating

Two routes exist depending on whether the issue is a genuine error or a required assumption.

Quick answer

It depends on the cause. A genuine factual error - wrong floor area, wrong construction date - should go to the assessor's accreditation scheme as a formal complaint. A rating that reflects a worst-case default assumption instead needs a fresh, evidence-based EPC assessment, which is usually the faster and more common route.

Route 1: Formal Complaint for a Genuine Error

If your EPC contains a factual mistake - an incorrect floor area, the wrong construction date, or a heating system that doesn't match the property - this is a genuine assessment error. Every accredited assessor belongs to an approved accreditation scheme, and a formal complaint through that scheme can require a correction.

Route 2: Evidence-Based Reassessment for Outdated Assumptions

More commonly, a rating feels wrong not because of an error but because of a worst-case default assumption - unverified loft insulation, wall construction, heating controls, or untested air tightness. These aren't errors; they're the correct application of the rules when evidence wasn't available at the time. The fix is a fresh EPC assessment with the right evidence provided upfront, such as installer certificates or an air tightness test.

Not Sure Which Route Applies?

Check your property's current EPC data free and see exactly what's driving your rating - errors, assumptions, or genuine performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. If you believe your EPC contains a factual or measurement error, you can raise a formal complaint with the accreditation scheme of the assessor who produced it. If instead the issue is an outdated or worst-case assumption, the usual route is a fresh, evidence-based assessment.

Every accredited domestic energy assessor belongs to an approved accreditation scheme. A formal complaint about an error should be directed to that scheme, which can investigate and require a correction.

For a formal complaint, evidence of a factual error - such as an incorrect property measurement or wrong construction date. For an assumption-based issue, evidence such as insulation installer certificates, glazing documentation, or a dedicated air tightness test result.

Formal complaints through an accreditation scheme can take several weeks to investigate. An evidence-based reassessment is typically faster, since it involves commissioning a new EPC with the supporting evidence provided upfront.

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  1. Route 1: Formal complaint for an error
  2. Route 2: Evidence-based reassessment
  3. Not sure which route applies?
  4. FAQs

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