How Do I Obtain An Energy Performance Certificate?

Landlords

Posted in Jul 12 , 2025

How Do I Obtain An Energy Performance Certificate?

If you are preparing to sell or let your property in the UK, you will need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before marketing your home. Many homeowners and landlords are unsure how to obtain this certificate, especially if it is their first time selling or managing a tenancy. But if you are aware beforehand, it will help you stay compliant whilst ensuring your property is ready for the market without unnecessary delays.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate rates your property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient. It shows potential buyers or tenants how much they might spend on energy and offers suggestions for improvements that could make the property cheaper to run. An EPC is required in the UK whenever you sell, build, or let out a property, ensuring transparency and compliance with legal requirements.

Who Can Issue an EPC in the UK?

Only accredited domestic energy assessors can issue an EPC. These assessors are qualified to inspect your property, checking your heating systems, insulation, and windows before calculating your property’s rating. Using a registered assessor ensures your EPC is valid and can be listed on the official Government EPC register, where it will be accessible during your sale or letting process.

Steps to Obtain an Energy Performance Certificate

Obtaining an EPC in the UK is a clear process when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Find an Accredited Energy Assessor

Search for a qualified assessor using the UK Government EPC Register. Enter your postcode to find local professionals who are licensed to carry out the assessment and issue your certificate.

2. Book Your EPC Assessment

Once you have chosen an assessor, arrange a convenient date for them to visit your property. They will let you know what access they require during the inspection and answer any questions you may have about the visit.

3. Have Your Property Inspected

During the assessment, the assessor will review your boiler, radiators,loft insulation, windows, and lighting. They will measure your rooms and note down the materials and systems in your property to calculate its energy efficiency. The inspection usually takes around 30 minutes to one hour, depending on your property’s size and layout.

4. Receive Your EPC

After the assessment, you will receive your EPC within a few days, often by email. The certificate will display your current rating and suggested improvements to help you raise your property’s energy efficiency if needed. An EPC remains valid for ten years, allowing you to market your property for sale or rent during this period without requiring a new assessment unless you wish to update your rating after making improvements.

Why You Need an EPC Before Marketing Your Property

It is a legal requirement to have a valid EPC before advertising your property for sale or letting in the UK. Estate agents will ask for the EPC when listing your property, and potential buyers or tenants often request to see it during viewings. A good EPC rating can improve your property’s appeal, making it more attractive to energy-conscious buyers or tenants, whilst helping you avoid fines that could disrupt your sale or letting plans.

Costs of Obtaining an EPC in the UK

The price of an EPC assessment varies across the UK, generally costing between £50 and £120. This fee is a one-off payment to the assessor for visiting your property and producing the certificate. Given the potential penalties for marketing a property without an EPC, this cost is a necessary investment to keep your sale or letting on track.

What If Your EPC Rating is Low?

No need to worry if your EPC rating is low, because the report will provide a clear list of the recommendations needed to improve the rating. It may include tasks like adding loft insulation or even adding energy-efficient lights. If you’re a landlord, it is compulsory to match the rating E or go above to stay legally under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). Upgrading your property will ensure it’s competitive in the market as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Obtaining an EPC?

1. Do I need an EPC if I am letting out a single room?

If the tenant is using just a single part of the property, you will still need to get an EPC. In this case, check with a reliable estate agent like Cribs Estate to make a better decision.

2. Can I use an EPC I obtained years ago?

The validity of an EPC is ten years, so you can use it for this period. Or else you can update it once the improvements are complete.

3. What happens if I market my property without an EPC?

Marketing the EPC without legal authorization can result in hefty penalties of up to £5,000, as well as delay your sale and letting process.

4. Can I check if I already have an EPC?

Yes, you can visit the UK EPC registry, or you can ask an estate agent like Cribs Estates to do it for your property and check the validity of the certificate.

How Cribs Estate Can Help You

At Cribs Estate, we understand that handling property compliance can feel overwhelming, especially when preparing your home for sale or letting. We work alongside trusted, accredited assessors to help you obtain your Energy Performance Certificate swiftly, ensuring you are compliant and ready to market your property without delays. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, assist in arranging your assessment, and help you understand any recommended improvements to enhance your EPC rating.

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