If you’re in the middle of selling your home and your Domestic EPC expires before completion, it can create confusion — but in most cases, it’s manageable.

Here’s what homeowners need to know in 2026.

First: When Is an EPC Legally Required?

Under rules set by the UK Government:

  • A valid EPC must be available when a property is marketed

  • The EPC must be given to prospective buyers

  • Domestic EPCs are valid for 10 years

The key requirement is that the EPC must be valid at the time the property is placed on the market.

If It Expires Before Completion — Is the Sale Invalid?

In most cases:

✔ If the EPC was valid when marketing began, the transaction can usually proceed.
✖ However, once expired, it cannot be reused for future marketing.

There is generally no legal requirement for the EPC to remain valid all the way through completion — but best practice is to keep it valid until the transaction finishes.

When You Should Renew Immediately

You should obtain a new EPC if:

  • The property goes back on the market

  • The sale falls through and is remarketed

  • A lender specifically requests a current certificate

  • You are switching estate agents

If your certificate has expired, book a new assessment here:
https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/

Can Buyers Refuse Because It Expired?

Typically, buyers cannot cancel purely because an EPC expired late in the transaction — especially if it was valid when they made the offer.

However:

  • Mortgage lenders may prefer a current certificate

  • Solicitors may request an updated copy

  • Delays could occur if documentation is incomplete

To avoid complications, renewing early is often safer.

Does the Rating Change After Renewal?

If you have:

  • Installed a new boiler

  • Improved insulation

  • Added solar panels

  • Upgraded windows

A new EPC could improve your rating — which may strengthen your sale position.

Check pricing here:
https://epcrate.co.uk/pricing/

Consult certified assessors:
https://epcrate.co.uk/services-epc-assessors-london/

Meet our company:
https://epcrate.co.uk/about-us-epc-company-london/

What If You’re Also Renting the Property?

If the property becomes a rental instead of a sale, it must comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), meaning:

  • It must have an EPC rating of E or above

  • A valid certificate must be in place

An expired EPC would need immediate renewal before letting.

Best Practice Advice

✔ Check your EPC expiry date early
✔ Renew if it will expire during marketing
✔ Avoid delays by keeping documentation current
✔ Reassess after improvements

Final Answer

If your Domestic EPC expires before completion:

  • The sale can usually proceed if it was valid at marketing stage

  • You cannot continue marketing with an expired certificate

  • Renewing promptly avoids lender or solicitor delays

Keeping your EPC valid throughout the sales process is the safest approach in 2026.

Office: 150–160 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX
Phone: 020 3488 4142
Email: info@epcrate.co.uk