Do You Need an EPC to Sell a House?

If you’re planning to sell a house in the UK, you might have come across the term “Energy Performance Certificate” (EPC). Often, homeowners are faced with a range of questions, ranging from how to get an EPC, to how much does an EPC cost? If you’re unsure about whether you need an EPC to sell a house and what role it plays, we’re here to answer all your concerns. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about EPCs, including whether they are mandatory, how to obtain one, exemptions, costs, and how they can impact your property sale.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

An EPC is an official document that assesses the energy efficiency of a property. It provides a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), offering potential buyers insight into the energy performance of the home they are considering purchasing.

An EPC also includes recommendations for improving energy efficiency, such as upgrading insulation, installing double-glazed windows, or using renewable energy sources. The goal of the EPC is to help homeowners and buyers make informed decisions about energy usage and potential cost savings.

Do I need an EPC to sell a house?

Yes, obtaining an EPC is a legal requirement when selling a property in the UK. According to The Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012, homeowners must provide an EPC before putting their property on the market. Situations when you will need to produce an EPC include:

• Before you list your property for sale with an estate agent.
• If you are selling a property privately.
• If potential buyers request to see it during viewings.

Failure to provide an EPC when selling your house can result in fines from Trading Standards, with penalties reaching up to £5,000.

How can I get an EPC?

To get an EPC, you need to hire a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor who will visit your property and conduct an inspection. During the assessment, they will evaluate various factors, including:

• Insulation: Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and other thermal efficiency measures.
• Windows: Whether they are single-glazed, double-glazed, or triple-glazed.
• Heating Systems: The efficiency of boilers, radiators, and other heating components.
• Lighting: The presence of energy-saving LED or CFL bulbs.
• Renewable Energy Sources: Solar panels, wind turbines, or heat pumps.

Once the assessment is complete, the EPC will be registered, and you will receive a certificate valid for 10 years. If you’re wondering how old an EPC can be to sell a house, 10 years is the maximum.  If your property has an EPC from a previous sale and you’re not sure how old it is, you can check if it is still valid using the government EPC register.

Are there any exemptions to EPC requirements?

While most properties require an EPC, there are a few exceptions where you may not need one:

• Listed buildings – If your property is a listed building and making energy efficiency modifications would alter its character, you may be exempt.
• Religious buildings – Churches and places of worship are generally exempt.
• Temporary structures – Buildings that are in use for less than two years do not require an EPC.
• Industrial sites and workshops – Some non-residential buildings with low energy usage may not need an EPC.
• Certain holiday lets – If the property is rented for less than four months per year, an EPC may not be required.

If you believe your property falls into an exemption category, consult with an Energy Assessor or legal expert to confirm whether you need an EPC.

What if my EPC rating is low?

A poor EPC rating (e.g., F or G) does not prevent you from selling your home, but it can impact buyer interest. Many buyers prefer energy-efficient homes because they offer lower running costs. Additionally, mortgage lenders are increasingly looking at EPC ratings when approving loans.

How can I improve my EPC rating before selling?

If you want to increase your home’s energy efficiency and appeal to buyers, consider the following upgrades:

• Upgrade your boiler: An old, inefficient boiler can negatively impact your EPC rating, so consider replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model.
• Improve insulation: Adding loft insulation and wall insulation can significantly improve your rating.
• Switch to LED lighting: Replacing halogen or incandescent bulbs with LED lights can provide an easy boost to energy efficiency.
• Double or triple glazing: Upgrading to double-glazed or triple-glazed windows can help retain heat and improve energy efficiency.
• Renewable energy: Installing solar panels or a heat pump can help increase your EPC score.

How much does an EPC cost?

The cost of obtaining an EPC varies depending on the size and location of your property. On average, an EPC costs between £50 and £120. To get the best price, compare quotes from multiple Domestic Energy Assessors in your area. You can find assessors through estate agents, online directories, or the government-approved EPC register.

How can an EPC affect my house sale?

While an EPC is primarily a legal requirement, it can also impact how quickly and easily you sell your home. Properties with a high EPC rating (A or B) tend to be more attractive to buyers because they promise lower energy bills.

Benefits of a good EPC Rating:

• Higher property value: Homes with better energy efficiency ratings often receive higher asking prices. 
• Faster sale: Buyers are more likely to make an offer on a home with lower running costs.
• Competitive advantage: If similar properties in your area have lower EPC ratings, a better EPC rating could help your home stand out.

Can I sell a house without an EPC?

Technically, you cannot legally market a property without a valid EPC. If you don’t have one when requested by a buyer or estate agent, you could face legal penalties. If your EPC expires during the selling process, you will need to renew it before completing the transaction.

Worried about your EPC rating? At Sell House Fast, we offer a streamlined solution to this challenge and so much more. As a cash house buyer, we provide a reliable way to sell your house fast. We’re able to complete sales very quickly but always abide by your timeline. This means you can move forward, fast and with certainty. Get your free cash offer today.