PropEco, a leading provider of property data and analytics, today announced the launch of its EPC Audit tool - a first-of-its-kind solution designed to identify and correct errors in Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), protecting property values and supporting the UK’s transition to net zero.
As the UK moves to decarbonise its housing stock, EPCs are becoming increasingly influential in buying decisions, mortgage assessments and property valuations. In fact, research consistently shows a direct correlation between EPC ratings and value: in some cases, A-rated homes have been found to command premiums of 12% or more over lower-rated equivalents.
However, with more than 50% of EPCs containing at least one significant error, the data underpinning hundreds of thousands of property decisions each month provides a misleading representation of running costs, retrofit options, liveability and - crucially - true market value. In many cases, this results in properties being downgraded to a lower EPC rating when such errors are rectified.
"Incorrect EPC data isn't just a clerical error; it's a financial liability waiting to happen," said Chris Hardman, Director at PropEco. "A downgraded EPC rating can slash property value overnight, derail sales, or push landlords into non-compliance with minimum energy efficiency standards, increasing mortgage default risk. PropEco’s EPC Audit tool is designed to flag the many identifiable issues within EPCs, helping stakeholders spot hidden opportunities as well as avoid costly mistakes."
Built on PropEco’s Enhanced EPC dataset, EPC Audit applies hundreds of automated checks to flag inconsistencies and errors that could impact the utility and value of a property. This empowers surveyors, valuers, lenders, and buyers to make better-informed decisions and mitigate the risk of unexpected devaluations or costly, unforeseen retrofit obligations.
"Lenders increasingly tie mortgage rates to EPC bands A-C but relying on flawed EPC data creates a huge risk." Hardman added. "PropEco’s EPC Audit tool is designed to ensure that assessments reflect reality, protecting all stakeholders in the property transaction and future-proofing lending books."
EPC Audit is available immediately via PropEco’s platform, which offers flexible access through an API for system integration, bulk data download for large-scale portfolio analysis, or a browser-based Data Explorer.
About PropEco
Established in 2021, PropEco is a UK-based technology company dedicated to future-proofing the built environment. It provides advanced data and analytical tools that enable property professionals, lenders and insurers to better manage the impacts of rapidly evolving social and environmental trends – including climate change – on property and places. By democratising access to property and location data, PropEco empowers stakeholders to make more informed decisions and support the transition to a resilient and sustainable future.
For more information go to www.propeco.io/epc-audit or contact Chris Hardman at info@propeco.io.