If you’re thinking about selling your property, there’s one document you’ll need early on: an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It’s a legal requirement in England, Wales, and Scotland, and without one, your home can’t be marketed.
Most homes in Scotland require a Home Report when marketed for sale, and an EPC is included in this Home Report. However, even if the property is exempt from a Home Report, an EPC is still required.
An EPC gives buyers a clear picture of how energy-efficient a property is, how much it may cost to run, and what improvements could be made in the future. With energy costs high on many buyers’ priority lists, having an up to date EPC is more important than ever.
What is an EPC and why is it required?
An EPC rates a property’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years. By law, an EPC must be available as soon as a property is put on the market for sale.
Failing to provide one can result in delays, lost interest from buyers, or even a fine. Having it ready from the outset helps keep your sale running smoothly and shows buyers that you’re well prepared.
Find a current EPC
Find an energy certificate for a property in England or Wales. This includes homes, business properties and public buildings.
Find an energy certificate for a property in Scotland.
Do I need a new EPC?
You will need a new EPC if:
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Your property doesn’t currently have one
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Your existing EPC is more than 10 years old
If you already have a valid EPC, you won’t usually need to replace it, even if it was produced for a previous sale or rental.
How do I get an EPC?
Getting an EPC is straightforward. A qualified domestic energy assessor will visit your property to carry out a short inspection, looking at things like:
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Insulation
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Heating systems
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Windows and glazing
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Lighting and hot water systems
The visit typically takes 30–60 minutes, and your EPC is usually issued within a few days.
If you’re selling with Your Move, we can help arrange your EPC for you as part of the selling process, saving you time and hassle. Our team works with trusted local assessors, so everything is taken care of quickly and professionally.
How much does an EPC cost?
The cost of an EPC can vary depending on:
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Property size
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Location
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Type of home (flat, house, new build, etc.)
On average, EPCs in the UK typically cost between £60 and £120. When you sell a property through Your Move, we can help you obtain an EPC for a small additional charge. Ask in your local branch for more information.
Why buyers care about EPCs
Buyers are increasingly energy-conscious. A strong EPC rating can:
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Make your property more attractive
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Highlight lower running costs
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Support the asking price
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Reassure buyers about future energy efficiency
Even if your rating isn’t as high as you’d like, the EPC includes recommendations that can help buyers see the potential in your home.
Selling your home? Let Your Move help
From arranging your EPC to marketing your property and guiding you through to completion, Your Move is here to support you at every stage of your sale.
If you’re thinking about selling and want to get started, speak to your local Your Move branch today and let us take care of the details.
The Your Move Content Marketing Team
