Explain the key features of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

• A. The EPC is valid for 5 years and shows only energy usage.
• B. The EPC is valid for 10 years and includes an energy efficiency rating (A–G), an environmental impact rating, advice on reducing energy costs, and may indicate a Green Deal scheme.
• C. The EPC proves title ownership.
• D. The EPC is a record of the seller's mortgage details.

Answer: (B)

The EPC's purpose is to show how energy-efficient a property is and what can be done to improve it, helping buyers or tenants compare costs and plan improvements. It is valid for ten years, not five. It includes an energy efficiency rating on a scale from A to G, plus an environmental impact rating that reflects carbon emissions. It also provides estimated annual energy costs and a list of recommended cost-effective measures to reduce energy use and bills. In some cases it may indicate whether a Green Deal financing option is available for those improvements. It does not prove title ownership, nor does it record the seller’s mortgage details; those are separate legal documents.