Selling your home in 2026? Before you list your property, you must ensure you meet all Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) legal requirements.

This practical checklist explains exactly what sellers must do to stay compliant and avoid delays during conveyancing.

Why EPC Compliance Matters When Selling

Under the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012:

  • You must have a valid EPC before marketing your property

  • The EPC rating must appear on estate agent listings

  • Buyers must receive a copy before completion

Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and fines.

✅ Domestic EPC Compliance Checklist (2026)

Use this step-by-step guide before putting your property on the market.

1️⃣ Check If You Already Have a Valid EPC

✔ EPCs are valid for 10 years
✔ Confirm it hasn’t expired
✔ Ensure it matches the current property condition

If your EPC has expired or is close to expiry, book a new one immediately:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/

2️⃣ Confirm the EPC Rating Is Visible in Marketing

Estate agents must display:

  • The EPC rating (A–G)

  • The Energy Efficiency graph

This applies to:

  • Online listings

  • Brochures

  • Property portals

If you’re unsure, speak to a qualified assessor:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/services-epc-assessors-london/

3️⃣ Provide the EPC to Potential Buyers

You must:

✔ Make the EPC available to prospective buyers
✔ Provide a full copy before exchange of contracts

Delays here can slow down conveyancing.

4️⃣ Ensure Property Details Match the EPC

If you have made improvements since the last assessment (e.g., new boiler, insulation, glazing), your current EPC may not reflect them.

Updating your EPC could:

  • Increase buyer confidence

  • Improve property value

  • Speed up sale negotiations

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

5️⃣ Understand That There Is No Minimum EPC Rating for Selling

In 2026:

  • You can legally sell a property rated F or G

  • There is no minimum band required for sale

However, low ratings may:

  • Reduce buyer interest

  • Affect mortgage lending

  • Lead to price renegotiation

If your rating is low, consider improvement advice before reassessment.

6️⃣ Confirm Whether Your Property Is Exempt

Some properties may not require an EPC, such as:

  • Certain listed buildings (if compliance would alter character)

  • Temporary buildings

  • Standalone buildings under 50m²

Always verify exemption status before assuming you do not need one.

7️⃣ Avoid Last-Minute Delays

Many sellers wait until an offer is accepted before arranging an EPC. This can:

❌ Delay listing
❌ Slow down conveyancing
❌ Frustrate buyers

Best practice: Arrange your EPC before marketing begins.

Common Seller Mistakes in 2026

  • Assuming an old EPC is still valid

  • Forgetting to display rating in listings

  • Ignoring improvement recommendations

  • Booking too late during peak seasons

Planning ahead avoids unnecessary stress.

Quick Seller Compliance Table

RequirementMandatory?Notes
Valid EPC before marketingYesMust be commissioned before listing
Minimum rating requiredNoAny band allowed for sale
Provide EPC to buyerYesBefore completion
Validity period10 yearsUnless property significantly changed

Final Compliance Summary for Sellers

In 2026, sellers must:

✔ Have a valid EPC before advertising
✔ Ensure rating appears in marketing
✔ Provide EPC to buyers
✔ Renew expired certificates
✔ Avoid delays by booking early

Need a Fast Domestic EPC in London?