Do I need an EPC before selling my house?

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) look very much like stickers you find on the side of kitchen and household appliances. But why do you need an EPC when you’re selling your house?

Since 2008, it has been a legal requirement to have an EPC. The EPC is issued after a survey has been carried out by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor. Once your home has received the certificate, it’s valid for 10 years from the date of the survey.
Although it seems like a hassle, having an EPC outlines what a buyer will need to do to make the property more energy efficient. If you’re buying, it’s an invaluable bit of information to let you work out what energy costs you may face.

What your EPC shows

Just like those stickers we mentioned earlier, EPCs outline the energy efficiency of your house by rating it on a scale of A to G. What this means is that:
    •    A is the most energy efficient
    •    G is the least energy efficient
The rating is represented as a bar chat that is coloured light green for most efficient to red for least efficient.
As well as giving you information about the property’s current energy efficiency, it identifies areas where you can improve efficiency. That’s useful information if you’re buying as it will help you see where energy might be being wasted.

The areas that will be identified for increased energy efficiency includes:
    •    Light fittings
    •    Heating system
    •    Wall and loft insulation
    •    Windows
    •    Solar panels

How to get your EPC

Only an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor can carry out an assessment. You can find a list of these assessors on the EPC Register. If you’re selling with Jill Moore Select Properties we can offer this service.
Potential buyers can view your EPC on the centralised register once you have it, which may help them make a decision on making an offer. It also compares your property to others in the neighbourhood.

Can I sell without and EPC?

If you haven’t got an EPC but have ordered one, you can put your property on the market. Failing to have one or ordering one could result in a fine, so don’t forget the EPC.

How much does it cost?

EPCs cost around £50-100. If selling with Jill Moore Select Properties, we organise your EPC for you.

Are there any exceptions?

Most domestic properties being sold require an EPC. There are some exceptions, however. These include:
    •    Temporary buildings being used for less than 2 years
    •    Residential buildings that are used for fewer than 4 months a year
    •    Some listed buildings
    •    Holiday accommodation rented out for fewer than 4 months a year
    •    Some agricultural or industrial buildings
    •    Buildings that are due to be demolished

What to do next

If you’re selling, then speak to us about EPCs and how we can help you sell your home. You can contact our team today.