An Energy Performance Certificate (‘EPC’) is an important piece of documentation involved in the house-selling process. You will need this if you wish to verify the energy efficiency of your property to potential buyers.
Sometimes, an EPC can be misplaced – and it becomes useful for the homeowner to have access to an online copy. But do online copies of EPCs exist – and if so, where can they be found? Our blog below has answered both of these important questions.
What does ‘EPC’ stand for?
The letters ‘EPC’ in the UK property industry stands for ‘Energy Performance Certificate’. This is a piece of documentation which outlines the energy efficiency of your property. When selling or letting a property, you’ll need to make sure there is a valid EPC issued within the last 10 years before you can market it.
An Energy Performance Certificate will give your property a grade between A and G. ‘A’ is an indication of a high level of energy efficiency, while ‘G’ demonstrates that your property has poor energy efficiency.
The more energy efficient your property is, the more attractive it is considered by potential buyers, because monthly energy bills will be lower, and fewer improvements are required.
Getting an EPC for your property is quite straightforward. Most house sellers will get in touch with an accredited energy assessor directly, or they will speak to their estate agent who can arrange one on their behalf.
In the UK, an Energy Performance Certificate usually costs between £30 – £100.
Where do homeowners typically get an EPC from?
When a homeowner sells their property ‘on the market’ through an estate agency, it is typically the estate agent that will arrange one on their behalf. You can also contact an accredited energy assessor who will complete one for you.
Can I find my EPC online?
Yes, you can find your EPC online. The UK government has a website which allows you to search for a property’s EPC. You can complete this search by entering the house’s post code, street name and town, or by entering a specific certificate number.
You are able to look at other property’s EPC certificates online, free of charge. Some homeowners use this to compare the energy efficiency of their property (or a house they are looking to buy) with others in the area.
Once you find a copy of the property’s EPC online, it is recommended that you print out a hard copy for future. Some homeowners choose to display this certificate in their home, so you may wish to do that.
Do all properties need an EPC?
No, not all properties in the UK require an EPC. There are a few exceptions, which include:
- Places of worship
- Temporary buildings
- Listed buildings
This list is not exhaustive – there are other examples of properties which do not require an EPC. If you are unsure and want to find out more, then the UK government website has a comprehensive list of which properties do/don’t require an EPC.
What EPC Changes are happening from 2025
From 2025, the UK government will be changing the laws and regulations surrounding EPCs. These changes mean that landlords must ensure their property has a minimum EPC rating of ‘C’ if they wish to rent it out.
What documents do I need to sell my house?
An EPC isn’t the only piece of documentation that you require when selling your house. Some of the other forms you will need include:
- Management Information Pack
- Proof of identity
- Property title deeds
- Leasehold or freehold documentation
- Fittings and contents form
- Property information form
- FENSA certificate
- Boiler documents
- Electrical documents
- Alterations and extensions documents
- Mortgage details
- Acceptance of offer
This list is not finite, and depending on your circumstances, there may be other forms which you will require to sell your house. You should speak to an independent mortgage advisor if you want clear recommendations, according to your specific circumstances.
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