If you’re planning to sell your home, you’ve probably heard about Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
But what happens if you don’t have one?
Can you still sell your house?
The short answer is yes—but in most cases, you’ll need to arrange an EPC before marketing the property. While the sale itself isn’t automatically invalid without an EPC, UK law generally requires sellers to have one available for prospective buyers before the property is advertised.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures how energy efficient a property is.
Every property receives a rating from:
- A – Most energy efficient
- G – Least energy efficient
The certificate also includes:
- Estimated energy costs
- Environmental impact
- Recommendations for improving efficiency
An EPC is valid for 10 years unless a newer one is issued.
Do you legally need an EPC to sell your house?
In most cases, yes.
If you’re selling a residential property in England or Wales, you should have an EPC commissioned before the property is marketed, and it should be made available to potential buyers. Failing to do so can result in a financial penalty.
Can you exchange contracts without an EPC?
The absence of an EPC doesn’t automatically prevent a sale from completing.
However, because sellers are generally required to have an EPC available while marketing the property, estate agents and conveyancers will usually expect one to be in place before the transaction progresses.
How much does an EPC cost?
A domestic EPC typically costs between £60 and £120, depending on:
- Property size
- Location
- Type of property
- The assessor’s fees
Some estate agents can arrange an EPC as part of their selling package.
How long does an EPC take?
Most EPC assessments take 30–60 minutes.
Once the inspection is complete, you’ll usually receive the certificate within 24–72 hours, although this varies between assessors.
How do I know if I already have one?
Before paying for a new EPC, check whether your property already has a valid certificate.
Since EPCs remain valid for 10 years, many homeowners already have one without realising it.
You can search the government’s EPC register for free.
Are any properties exempt?
Some properties do not require an EPC.
Examples include:
- Certain listed buildings where energy-efficiency improvements would unacceptably alter their character
- Some buildings due to be demolished
- Places of worship
- Temporary buildings
- Some detached buildings under 50m²
If you think your property may qualify, speak to your estate agent or an accredited EPC assessor before marketing it.
Does a poor EPC stop you selling?
No.
Many homes are sold every year with EPC ratings of E, F or G.
A lower rating doesn’t prevent a sale, although some buyers may consider future energy costs or potential improvement works when deciding how much to offer.
Can you improve your EPC before selling?
Yes—and in some cases, relatively small improvements may increase your property’s rating.
Examples include:
- Loft insulation
- LED lighting
- Double glazing
- Heating controls
- A newer boiler
- Cavity wall insulation (where suitable)
Whether these improvements are worthwhile depends on your budget and how long you plan to keep the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an EPC valid?
An EPC is valid for 10 years unless a newer certificate is issued.
Can I sell my house with an F or G rating?
Yes. A low EPC rating does not prevent you from selling your property.
Who pays for the EPC?
The seller is normally responsible for arranging and paying for the EPC.
What happens if I don’t get one?
If you market a property without arranging an EPC where one is legally required, you could face a financial penalty.
Final thoughts
If you’re selling your home, arranging an EPC should be one of the first things on your checklist.
The assessment is relatively inexpensive, usually takes less than an hour and remains valid for ten years.
Before booking a new assessment, check whether your property already has a valid EPC—you could save yourself both time and money.
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Author: The Right Guy Team
UK service guides published by The Right Guy Ltd.