In the UK, a Domestic Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is not optional — it is a legal requirement before you sell or rent out a residential property. By 2026, enforcement has become stricter, and local authorities actively fine property owners and agents who fail to comply.
Below is a clear breakdown of what actually happens if a property is marketed without a valid EPC — and why ignoring it can delay your sale, block your tenancy, and cost money.
1. You Cannot Legally Market the Property
Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations, a property must have a valid EPC before advertising online, in windows, or through agents.
This means:
No Rightmove / Zoopla listing
No estate agent marketing
No tenancy advertising
No brochures or printed ads
If you are preparing to sell or rent, you should arrange your assessment first via
👉 Book a Domestic EPC Assessment
2. You Can Be Fined by Local Authorities
The most immediate consequence is a financial penalty.
| Offence | Typical Penalty |
|---|---|
| Failure to provide EPC | £200 per dwelling |
| Not including rating in advert | Additional fine |
| Letting below minimum rating (E) | Up to £5,000+ |
Local councils can issue penalties to:
Landlords
Sellers
Estate agents
You can avoid enforcement action by arranging certification early:
👉 Same-Day EPC Service
3. You Cannot Legally Rent the Property (MEES Rules)
For landlords in 2026, the bigger issue is Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
Rental properties must be rated E or above to be legally let.
If you don’t have an EPC:
You cannot prove compliance
The tenancy becomes unlawful
You may face heavy fines
Check rental compliance requirements here:
👉 Landlord EPC Requirements Guide
4. Your Sale Can Collapse
Solicitors and buyers always request the EPC during conveyancing.
Without it:
Buyers lose confidence
Mortgage lenders may refuse approval
Conveyancers pause the process
The chain delays or collapses
To prevent last-minute delays:
👉 Order Your EPC Before Marketing
5. Estate Agents May Refuse to List Your Property
Agents must request the EPC within 7 days of instruction and stop marketing if not provided within 28 days.
So many agents simply refuse the listing without one.
6. You Lose Buyer and Tenant Trust
An EPC shows:
Running costs
Insulation efficiency
Heating performance
Upgrade potential
Without it, viewers often assume the property is inefficient — reducing offers.
Learn how ratings affect value:
👉 Understanding EPC Ratings
7. Delays Increase Moving Costs
No EPC often causes:
Rearranged viewings
Delayed exchange
Extra legal fees
A simple assessment avoids expensive chain disruptions:
👉 Fast EPC Appointment
8. You Cannot Complete Rental Paperwork
For rentals, the EPC must be provided alongside:
Gas Safety Certificate
How to Rent Guide
Deposit documentation
Without it, possession notices may become invalid.
Key Takeaway
Failing to obtain a Domestic EPC in 2026 can lead to:
Fines
Illegal marketing
Invalid tenancies
Sale collapse
Mortgage refusal
No EPC = No marketing, No letting, No completion.
Getting the certificate early is the simplest way to stay compliant and avoid costly problems.
