Can You Sell a House Without an EPC in London?

If you are preparing to sell a house, flat or apartment in London, you may be wondering whether you can market or complete the sale without an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

This is one of the most common questions asked by homeowners, estate agents and landlords. Understanding the role of an EPC before listing a property can help avoid delays, improve compliance and ensure a smoother sales process.

Founded in 2015 by Jino Jose, EPCRATE has helped homeowners, landlords and estate agents across London obtain fast and professional EPC assessments, with same-day appointments available where possible. Call 020 3488 4142 to book.

What Is an EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate measures the energy efficiency of a property and provides a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

The certificate provides information about:

• Current energy efficiency rating.
• Potential future rating.
• Estimated energy performance information.
• Carbon emissions data.
• Recommended energy efficiency improvements.

Domestic EPCs generally remain valid for 10 years from the date they are issued.

Do You Need an EPC Before Selling a House?

In many circumstances, a valid EPC is required before a property is marketed for sale. For a full breakdown of the legal position, see our guide: Do I Need an EPC Before Selling My House in London?

Estate agents commonly request confirmation that an EPC has been commissioned before advertising a property. Buyers may also expect to review the EPC during the sales process as it provides useful information about energy performance.

If a valid EPC already exists and has not expired, a new assessment may not be required immediately.

Can You Legally Sell a House Without an EPC?

Requirements depend on the circumstances of the property and whether an exemption applies.

For most residential properties marketed for sale, an EPC is generally required before marketing begins. Property owners should always review current government guidance to determine whether their property requires a certificate.

Where a valid EPC is needed, arranging the assessment early can help avoid unnecessary delays and complications.

What Happens If You Try to Market a Property Without an EPC?

Many estate agents will request EPC information before launching a property listing.

Without a valid EPC, you may encounter:

• Delays in marketing.
• Additional administration.
• Requests for updated documentation.
• Compliance concerns during the sales process.

For this reason, many homeowners choose to arrange an EPC before photography, floor plans and marketing materials are prepared. EPCRATE’s EPC + Floor Plan Bundle at £118 covers both in a single visit — saving £20 versus booking separately.

Are There Any EPC Exemptions?

Some properties may qualify for exemptions under current regulations.

Examples may include certain listed buildings, temporary structures, places of worship and specific building types where exemptions apply.

However, exemptions are often misunderstood and should never be assumed. Property owners should always verify eligibility against current government guidance before deciding that an EPC is not required.

If an exemption applies, supporting evidence may be required.

Can You Use an Existing EPC?

In many cases, yes.

If a valid EPC already exists and has not expired, it can often continue to be used.

Before commissioning a new assessment, property owners may wish to check whether an existing certificate is available on the official government EPC register.

If the certificate has expired, a new EPC will usually be required before marketing the property.

Should You Get a New EPC Before Selling?

Even if a previous EPC exists, there are situations where obtaining a new certificate may be beneficial.

You may wish to arrange a new EPC if:

• The existing certificate has expired.
• Energy efficiency improvements have been completed.
• A new heating system has been installed.
• Insulation upgrades have been undertaken.
• You want current property information reflected in the assessment.

Supporting documentation can be important when improvements have been made. Evidence such as insulation certificates, FENSA certificates and Building Control records may help qualifying features be recognised appropriately.

EPCs for Flats and Apartments

The same general principles often apply whether you are selling:

• A detached house.
• A semi-detached house.
• A terraced house.
• A flat.
• An apartment.
• A maisonette.
• A leasehold property.

Across London, EPCRATE regularly assesses flats and apartments in areas including Canary Wharf, Stratford, Greenwich, Wimbledon, Camden, Islington and the City of London.

Why Buyers Pay Attention to EPC Ratings

Energy efficiency has become an increasingly important consideration for many buyers.

An EPC can provide useful information regarding:

• Energy performance.
• Potential running costs.
• Carbon emissions.
• Possible future improvements.

While EPC ratings are only one factor in the purchasing decision, they can help buyers compare properties more effectively.

Why Choose EPCRATE?

• Founded in 2015 by Jino Jose.
• DEA Accredited.
• ★★★★★ Trustpilot Reviews.
• ★★★★★ Google Reviews.
• Same-day appointments available where possible.
• Coverage across all 32 London boroughs.
• Only London provider offering a Draft EPC service.
• Greater London Energy Efficiency Awards – Commended 2024.
• Greater London Energy Efficiency Awards – Highly Commended 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell my house without an EPC?

In many circumstances, a valid EPC is required before marketing a property for sale. Property owners should review current government guidance and determine whether any exemptions apply. EPCRATE offers same-day assessments from £59 across London — call 020 3488 4142.

Can I use an existing EPC when selling?

Yes. If the EPC remains valid and has not expired, it can often continue to be used. You can check whether a valid certificate exists at gov.uk/find-energy-certificate.

How long does an EPC last?

A domestic EPC generally remains valid for 10 years from the date it is issued.

Do flats need an EPC before being sold?

In many circumstances, flats and apartments require a valid EPC before being marketed for sale. The same general rules apply as for houses and other residential properties.

Can I book a same-day EPC appointment in London?

Same-day appointments may be available depending on assessor availability and location. Call EPCRATE on 020 3488 4142 to check availability and book.

Selling multiple properties? Contact EPCRATE on 020 3488 4142 for bulk EPC discounts available to landlords, estate agents, developers and property management companies across London.

Service	Price
1 Bedroom EPC	£59
2 Bedroom EPC	£69
3 Bedroom EPC	£79
EPC + Floor Plan Bundle	£118