EPC Requirements for Sale

A valid EPC is required before a property can be marketed for sale. This applies to all residential properties, including those currently tenanted. The EPC must be made available to prospective buyers free of charge. Estate agents are required to include the EPC rating in property listings.

• A valid EPC must be obtained before marketing begins
• EPCs are valid for ten years from the date of issue
• Check whether your EPC is current on the EPC Register at gov.uk
• If your EPC has expired, commission a new assessment before marketing
• The EPC must be provided to prospective buyers free of charge

Minimum EPC Ratings for Rental Properties

Since April 2020, landlords in England and Wales have been required to ensure their rental properties have a minimum EPC rating of E before granting a new tenancy or renewing an existing one. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let unless an exemption applies. This is relevant to landlords selling because a low EPC rating may affect the property's marketability and the buyer's ability to let it.

• Minimum EPC rating for rental properties is currently E
• Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let without an exemption
• Buyers who intend to let the property will need to be aware of the current rating
• Proposed future regulations may raise the minimum to C — buyers may factor in improvement costs
• If your property is rated F or G, consider whether improvements are cost-effective before selling

Proposed Future EPC Requirements

The government has proposed raising the minimum EPC rating for rental properties to C by 2028 (for new tenancies) and 2030 (for all tenancies). While these proposals are subject to change and have not yet been legislated, they are likely to affect buyer confidence in properties with low EPC ratings. Buyers who intend to let the property may factor in the cost of improvements when making an offer.

• Proposed minimum rating of C for new tenancies by 2028 (not yet legislated)
• Proposed minimum rating of C for all tenancies by 2030 (not yet legislated)
• Buyers may discount properties with low EPC ratings to account for improvement costs
• Consider whether EPC improvements are cost-effective before marketing
• Common improvements include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and boiler replacement

How to Obtain a New EPC

If your EPC has expired or you need a new assessment, commission one from an accredited domestic energy assessor. You can find an accredited assessor through the EPC Register at gov.uk. The assessment typically takes 45–60 minutes and costs between £60 and £120.

• Search for an accredited assessor at the EPC Register (gov.uk)
• The assessment typically takes 45–60 minutes
• Costs typically range from £60 to £120 depending on property size and location
• You will receive the EPC certificate digitally, usually within 24–48 hours
• The assessor will also provide a list of recommended improvements and their estimated impact

What to Do Next

Check the EPC Register at gov.uk to confirm whether your property has a current, valid EPC. If it has expired or does not exist, commission a new assessment before marketing. If the rating is low, discuss with your estate agent whether improvements are likely to be cost-effective before sale.