If you’re thinking about selling your property, there’s one document you’ll need early on: an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It’s a legal requirement in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and without one, your home cannot be marketed for sale.
An EPC gives buyers a clear picture of how energy-efficient a property is, how much it may cost to run, and what improvements could be made in the future. With energy costs high on many buyers’ priority lists, having an up to date EPC is more important than ever.
What is an EPC and why is it required?
An EPC rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years. By law, an EPC must be available as soon as a property is put on the market.
Failing to provide one can result in delays, reduced buyer interest, or even a fine. Having your EPC ready from the outset helps your sale progress smoothly and reassures buyers that you are well prepared.
Find a current EPC
You can check whether a property already has a valid EPC using the official registers:
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England and Wales and Northern Ireland: Find an energy certificate for homes, business properties and public buildings.
Find an electrical certificate
If your EPC is still valid, you may not need to arrange a new one.
Do I need a new EPC?
You will need a new EPC if:
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Your property does not currently have one
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Your existing EPC is more than 10 years old
If you already have a valid EPC, you won’t usually need to replace it, even if it was produced for a previous sale or rental.
How do I get an EPC?
Getting an EPC is straightforward. A qualified domestic energy assessor will visit your property to carry out a short inspection, looking at factors such as:
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Insulation
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Heating systems
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Windows and glazing
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Lighting and hot water systems
The assessment usually takes 30–60 minutes, and the EPC is typically issued within a few days.
If you’re selling with Reeds Rains, we can help arrange your EPC as part of the selling process, saving you time and hassle. We work with trusted local assessors to ensure everything is handled quickly and professionally.
How much does an EPC cost?
The cost of an EPC can vary depending on:
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Property size
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Location
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Type of home (flat, house, new build, etc.)
On average, EPCs in the UK typically cost between £60 and £120. When you sell your property through Reeds Rains, we can help you obtain an EPC for a small additional charge. Your local branch can provide full details.
Why buyers care about EPCs
Buyers are increasingly energy-conscious. A good EPC rating can:
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Make your property more attractive
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Highlight lower running costs
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Support the asking price
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Reassure buyers about future energy efficiency
Even if your rating isn’t as high as you’d like, the EPC includes recommendations that help buyers understand the potential of your home.
Selling your home? Let Reeds Rains help
From arranging your EPC to marketing your property and guiding you through to completion, Reeds Rains is here to support you at every stage of your sale.
If you’re thinking about selling, speak to your local Reeds Rains branch today or book a free valuation to get started.
The Reeds Rains Content Marketing Team
