Yes. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is legally required for most UK properties when they are built, sold or let. If you are a landlord or seller, you must have a valid EPC before marketing the property and make it available to prospective tenants or buyers.
It is not a box tick: missing or withholding an EPC can trigger Trading Standards penalties and slow your sale or let.
What is an EPC?
An EPC rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (best) to G (worst) and includes practical recommendations (for example insulation, glazing, heating upgrades) that can cut running costs and improve the rating.
When Is an EPC Required?
An EPC is required in the following situations:
| Situation | Is an EPC Required? |
| Selling a property | ✅ Yes |
| Renting out a home to new tenants | ✅ Yes |
| Renewing an existing tenancy | ✅ Yes |
| Building a new home | ✅ Yes |
| Leasing a commercial property | ✅ Yes |
| Listed buildings (some exemptions may apply) | ⚠️ Possibly |
The EPC must be available to prospective buyers or tenants as soon as you start marketing the property. It should also be included in the property advertisement. Tip: if you are advertising a HMO room, an EPC is usually required only where the unit is self-contained. For whole-house lets, you will need an EPC.
How long is an EPC valid?
10 years. If your certificate is older – or you have improved the property (new boiler, insulation, windows) – commission a fresh EPC to reflect the upgrade.
What are the penalties for no EPC?
- Dwellings (most homes): typically a £200 fixed penalty per breach (issued by Trading Standards).
- Non-domestic or commercial: fines vary by rateable value, up to £5,000.
Either way, non-compliance can delay exchange, completion or a tenancy start – and weaken buyer or tenant confidence.
Minimum EPC rating for rentals (MEES)
In England and Wales, privately rented homes must currently meet E or above. Letting a property at F or G is unlawful unless you have registered a valid exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register. Although earlier proposals to lift the minimum further have been paused, the direction of travel is towards higher standards, so planning improvements now is sensible.
How to get an EPC
Book an accredited energy assessor. They will visit, inspect and issue the certificate. Typical cost: £100-£200 depending on size and location. If you’re working with a property agency like Ernest-Brooks International, they can help arrange this for you as part of their sales or lettings service.
Quick answers (FAQs)
Is an EPC mandatory to sell my house?
Yes – have it ready before you start marketing. Most portals will expect the EPC rating on the listing.
Do I need a new EPC to renew a tenancy?
Not if your current certificate is still valid (within 10 years) and the property is not being re-marketed. If it has expired, get a new one.
What EPC rating do I need to let a property?
Minimum E in England and Wales (MEES). If yours is F or G, improve the rating or register a valid exemption before letting.
What about listed buildings?
Some are exempt only where compliance would require unacceptable alteration. It is not automatic – take advice first.
How much does an EPC cost in London?
Typically £100-£200 for a flat or house, depending on size, location and access.
Next steps
- Need to check your status or book an EPC? We will arrange it and line up anything else you need for a compliant launch.
- Planning to sell or let soon? Pair the EPC with:
- Rental pricing and compliance checklist: https://www.ernest-brooks.com/renting-property-london-2025-guide/
- Sales valuation: https://www.ernest-brooks.com/how-much-is-my-house-worth/
- How to rent guide: https://www.ernest-brooks.com/renting-property-london-2025-guide/
