Do I Need an EPC Before Selling?
Energy Performance Certificates form part of the information used in many property transactions. The exact requirements and exemptions can change, so the current position should be checked for the particular property.
If a valid EPC already exists, you may not need a new one.
1. Check for an existing certificate
This stage deserves a deliberate decision rather than an assumption. Look at the property, the transaction and your own priorities together. Gather the relevant information, understand what is confirmed and what still needs checking, and keep a record of the decisions that could affect timing, cost or risk.
2. Check the current requirements
This stage deserves a deliberate decision rather than an assumption. Look at the property, the transaction and your own priorities together. Gather the relevant information, understand what is confirmed and what still needs checking, and keep a record of the decisions that could affect timing, cost or risk.
Good property decisions usually come from combining evidence, context and a clear understanding of the next step.
3. Understand possible exemptions
This stage deserves a deliberate decision rather than an assumption. Look at the property, the transaction and your own priorities together. Gather the relevant information, understand what is confirmed and what still needs checking, and keep a record of the decisions that could affect timing, cost or risk.
4. Arrange an assessment where needed
This stage deserves a deliberate decision rather than an assumption. Look at the property, the transaction and your own priorities together. Gather the relevant information, understand what is confirmed and what still needs checking, and keep a record of the decisions that could affect timing, cost or risk.
5. Keep the certificate with your sale documents
This stage deserves a deliberate decision rather than an assumption. Look at the property, the transaction and your own priorities together. Gather the relevant information, understand what is confirmed and what still needs checking, and keep a record of the decisions that could affect timing, cost or risk.
Questions worth asking
- What information do I already have?
- What still needs to be verified?
- Could this issue affect value, timing or buyer confidence?
- Do I need legal, tax, financial or technical advice before acting?
Next steps
If the guide relates to a sale or valuation, Aspect Properties can help you understand the property position and the practical route forward.
