Article Summary
- When is an EPC required: before you market any property for sale or rental
- New builds require an EPC within 5 days of construction completion
- Landlords must provide an EPC with a minimum E rating to all new tenants
- Listed buildings and places of worship are exempt from EPC requirements
- Holiday lets rented for less than 4 months per year do not need an EPC
- You can reuse the same EPC for 10 years across multiple tenancies
- Commercial properties need an EPC when constructed, sold, or rented
Need to sell your London flat or rent out a property? You must know when an EPC is required before you start advertising.
This guide explains exactly when an EPC is required for UK properties.
When Is an EPC Required for Property Sales?
You must get an EPC before you market your property for sale. Order the certificate as soon as you decide to sell, not after you find a buyer.
| Sale Type | EPC Required? | When to Obtain |
| Standard house sale | Yes | Before marketing begins |
| Flat or apartment | Yes | Before advertising starts |
| New build property | Yes | Within 5 days of completion |
| Listed building | No | Exempt from requirement |
| Property transfer to family | Yes | Before transaction completes |
The UK government confirms that sellers must provide a valid EPC to potential buyers free of charge. Estate agents need the energy rating to include in all advertisements.
From our experience with London property owners, most order their EPC when they instruct an estate agent. You face fines if you market property without arranging an EPC first.
When Is an EPC Required for Rental Properties?
Landlords need an EPC before they advertise a property to let. The certificate must show a rating of E or higher for all rentals in England and Wales.
| Rental Scenario | EPC Needed? | Minimum Rating |
| New tenancy starts | Yes | E or above |
| Tenant renewal (same terms) | No | N/A |
| Property advertised to let | Yes | E or above |
| Room in shared house | No | Whole property only |
| Holiday let (4+ months) | Yes | E or above |
| Holiday let (under 4 months) | No | Exempt |
Landlords must give tenants free access to the EPC before they sign any agreement. In our work with overseas landlords in London, many miss this requirement and face penalties.
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards mean you cannot let properties rated F or G unless you register an exemption. Properties must meet the E rating before you accept new tenants.
Learn more about the legal framework: is an EPC a legal requirement.
When Do New Build Properties Need an EPC?
New construction requires an EPC within 5 days of completion. The builder must provide the certificate to the owner and notify building control.
New builds use SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure). Building control will not issue completion certificates until they confirm the builder provided the EPC.
When an EPC is required for new builds becomes important early in construction. Developers arrange assessors at the design stage to avoid completion delays.
Commercial Property EPC Requirements
When is an epc required for commercial buildings? You need an EPC when they are built, sold, or rented. Rules mirror residential requirements but apply to offices, shops, warehouses, and business premises.
| Commercial Situation | EPC Required | Notes |
| Office space for rent | Yes | Before marketing |
| Retail unit for sale | Yes | Before advertising |
| Warehouse construction | Yes | Within 5 days of completion |
| Factory modification | Yes (if services change) | When work finishes |
| Industrial site (low energy) | No | Specific exemption |
Commercial EPCs last 10 years and can be reused. Fines range from £500 to £5,000 depending on the building’s rateable value.
Exemptions: When Is an EPC Not Required?
Some properties do not need an EPC when sold or rented. These exemptions protect buildings where assessments would damage features or serve no purpose.
Exempt properties:
- Listed buildings where compliance would damage character
- Places of worship and religious buildings
- Temporary buildings with planned use under 2 years
- Stand-alone buildings under 50 square meters total floor area
- Industrial sites and workshops with low energy demand
- Buildings due for demolition with relevant permissions
- Agricultural buildings that are not dwellings
Holidays need special attention. When is an EPC required for holiday properties depends on rental duration. Properties let for under 4 months total per year are exempt. Properties rented 4+ months need an EPC.
What Happens Without an EPC?
Many property owners wonder when is an EPC required and what happens if you ignore the rules. Selling or renting without the required EPC creates legal problems and penalties. Trading Standards can investigate and issue fines.
| Violation | Penalty Range | Who Gets Fined |
| Sell without EPC | £200 | Property seller |
| Rent without EPC | £500 – £5,000 | Landlord |
| Fail to provide to tenant | £500 – £1,000 | Landlord |
| Market without energy rating | £500 – £1,000 | Agent or landlord |
Estate agents must ensure properties have valid EPCs and include energy ratings in all marketing.
Beyond fines, missing EPCs delay transactions. Buyers will not proceed without the certificate. Mortgage lenders need EPC details before loan approval. Tenants can refuse to sign agreements without it.
Smart property owners arrange their EPC well before they need it to avoid stress and delays.
How Long Does an EPC Last?
EPCs remain valid for 10 years. You can use the same certificate multiple times.
When is an epc required to be renewed? You must get a new assessment if your EPC expires and you want to sell or rent.
Some owners renew early after making energy improvements. A better rating attracts buyers who want lower bills.
You can read our article for more details: how long is an epc valid for?
How to Get an EPC?
Arrange an EPC through an accredited assessor. Assessments take 45 to 90 minutes.
London cost: £60-£120. The EPC appears on the government register within 24 hours.
When is an epc required to be arranged? Start at least 2 weeks before you market your property.
EPC Requirements for HMOs and Multiple Units
Many landlords ask when is an epc required for Houses in Multiple Occupation. HMOs usually need one EPC for the whole property, not separate certificates for each room.
| HMO Type | EPC Requirement |
| Shared house (individual contracts) | One EPC for whole building |
| Self-contained flats in building | One EPC per flat |
| Bedsits with shared facilities | One EPC for whole property |
| Converted house with separate flats | One EPC per self-contained unit |
The distinction depends on whether tenants rent self-contained units or just rooms with shared facilities. Self-contained means the unit has its own kitchen and bathroom.
From our experience with multi-unit properties in London, confusion here often leads to compliance problems. Get clarity on your specific situation before starting the letting process.
Manage Your London Property Portfolio
Ernest-Brooks International helps property owners across London with compliance, lettings, and property management. Our team tracks regulatory requirements so you never miss deadlines.
We work with UK-based and international investors. Our property management service includes EPC tracking, tenant placement, and full compliance.
Whether you need to know when an EPC is required for a Canary Wharf investment or want support with a multi-unit portfolio, our award-winning team provides the expertise you need.
Contact Ernest-Brooks International for a free property consultation. Discover how our local knowledge and international reach can help manage your London investments.
Common Questions About EPC Requirements
When is an EPC required if I am not selling or renting?
You do not need an EPC if you live in the property yourself with no plans to sell or rent. EPCs are only required when properties change hands or are offered for rental.
Do I need a new EPC when my tenant renews?
No. When a tenant renews on the same terms, you use your existing valid EPC. You only need a new one if the current EPC expired or you are advertising for a new tenant.
When is an EPC required for inherited property?
You need an EPC before you sell inherited property. Even though you did not purchase it, the sale requires a valid certificate. If you plan to rent it, you need an EPC before advertising.
Can I list my property before getting an EPC?
No. You must arrange the EPC before you start marketing. You can face fines for advertising without ordering an assessment. Arrange your EPC before you instruct an estate agent.
