How Long Does an EPC Remain Current?
One of the most common questions property owners ask is:
"How long is an EPC valid?"
The simple answer is that an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is normally valid for 10 years from the date of issue.
In practical terms, this means the certificate remains current for up to 10 years unless a newer EPC is commissioned.
However, it is important to understand that a current EPC is not necessarily the same as an up-to-date EPC.
For example, an EPC issued in 2017 may still have remained current until 2027. However, if the property had a new boiler, cavity wall insulation, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, and replacement windows installed in 2022, the EPC may no longer accurately reflect the property's energy performance.
For this reason, many property owners choose to commission a new EPC after carrying out significant energy efficiency improvements, even if their existing certificate remains current.
How Long Does an EPC Last?
A domestic Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) will usually remain current for:
10 years from the date it is issued.
During this period, the certificate can generally be used multiple times for the sale or letting of the property, provided it has not expired.
The expiry date can be found on the EPC itself and can also be checked using the Government's EPC Register.
Do I Need a New EPC Every Time I Sell My Property?
Not necessarily.
If a current EPC already exists and is less than 10 years old, it can generally be reused when the property is marketed for sale.
However, some property owners choose to commission a new EPC if they have carried out energy efficiency improvements since the existing certificate was produced.
A newer EPC may better reflect the property's current energy performance and provide prospective purchasers with a more accurate picture of the property's energy efficiency.
Do I Need a New EPC Every Time I Let My Property?
Not necessarily.
Provided a current EPC already exists, it can normally be used for subsequent lettings during the 10-year period.
Landlords should, however, be aware of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which may impose additional requirements regarding EPC ratings.
Can I Obtain a New EPC Before the Existing One Expires?
Yes.
There is no requirement to wait until an EPC expires before obtaining a new certificate.
Property owners often commission a new EPC after:
Installing a new boiler
Adding loft insulation
Installing cavity wall insulation
Installing solar photovoltaic (PV) panels
Replacing windows and doors
Upgrading heating controls
Installing renewable energy technologies
Completing major renovation works
A new assessment may produce a different rating if the property's energy performance has improved.
What Happens When an EPC Expires?
Once an EPC reaches its expiry date, it can no longer be relied upon for the sale or letting of the property.
If the property is to be marketed after the EPC has expired, a new EPC will normally be required.
How Can I Check Whether My EPC Is Still Current?
Most EPCs can be checked using the Government's EPC Register.
The register allows property owners, buyers, tenants, landlords, and agents to view EPCs and confirm their expiry dates.
If you are unsure whether your EPC remains current, the register is often the quickest place to check.
Should I Get a New EPC Even If Mine Is Still Current?
In some cases, it may be worthwhile.
For example, if significant energy efficiency improvements have been made since the EPC was issued, a new assessment may better reflect the property's current performance.
This may be particularly relevant where:
The property is being sold
The property is being let
Energy efficiency improvements have recently been completed
A higher EPC rating may be beneficial to prospective buyers or tenants
You wish to understand the impact of recent upgrades
Can a New EPC Improve My Rating?
Potentially, yes.
If improvements have been made since the original EPC was produced, a new assessment may result in a higher rating.
However, the outcome will depend on:
The nature of the improvements
The quality of the installation
The evidence available to support the improvements
The EPC methodology in force at the time of the assessment
Why Do Property Owners Often Commission a New EPC Before the Existing One Expires?
Many homeowners assume that because an EPC remains current for 10 years, there is no benefit in obtaining a replacement certificate.
However, where improvements have been carried out, a newer EPC may provide a more accurate reflection of the property's energy performance.
This can be particularly beneficial when:
Marketing a property for sale
Letting a property
Applying for certain green mortgage products
Demonstrating energy efficiency improvements to prospective buyers or tenants
How A1 Home Inspectors Can Help
At A1 Home Inspectors, we can help you determine whether your EPC remains valid and discuss whether a new assessment may be beneficial following energy efficiency improvements.
If your EPC has expired, or you are preparing to market your property for sale or let, we will be happy to arrange a new assessment.
Need a new EPC or want to check whether your certificate is still current? Contact A1 Home Inspectors today for professional advice.
Official Guidance
Property owners should refer to the latest Government guidance regarding EPC requirements and validity periods, as legislation and guidance may change over time.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. An EPC is normally valid for 10 years from the date of issue. However, a current EPC may not necessarily reflect improvements made to a property since the assessment was carried out. Property owners should seek professional advice where appropriate.
