Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rules do not only apply when a property is first rented — they also apply during sales, tenancy renewals, lease assignments, and tenant changes. Many landlords and agents accidentally break regulations at this stage, which can lead to enforcement penalties.
Learn about our qualified assessors:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/about-us-epc-assessors-london/
Selling a Property – EPC Rules
EPC Required Before Marketing
Before a property is listed on:
Property portals
Estate agent listings
Brochures
Window displays
the seller must already have a valid EPC.
You cannot legally advertise without one.
Book a fast assessment:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/
EPC Must Be Given to Buyers
Potential buyers must receive access to the EPC at the earliest opportunity — typically during viewings or when details are requested.
This allows buyers to understand:
Energy bills
Future upgrade costs
Insulation performance
Heating efficiency
Domestic EPC service:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/domestic-epc
Renting to a New Tenant
A New Tenancy Always Requires a Valid EPC
Even if a property was rented before, you must check:
Is the EPC still valid and compliant?
If expired or rated F/G → the property cannot be let legally.
Renewals vs New Tenancies
| Situation | New EPC Required? |
|---|---|
| Same tenant renewal | Only if expired |
| New tenant | Must be valid & compliant |
| After renovations | Yes |
| After conversion | Yes |
Commercial Lease Transfers
Commercial property rules are stricter.
You need a valid EPC when:
Granting a new lease
Assigning a lease
Subletting
Selling the building
Commercial EPC service:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/commercial-epc
After Property Improvements
You should obtain a new EPC if upgrades significantly affect energy performance:
Boiler replacement
Insulation installation
New glazing
Heat pumps or solar panels
Major layout changes
This can improve compliance and increase property value.
What Happens if You Ignore the Rules?
Authorities can issue penalties even after the transaction completes.
Common enforcement triggers:
Tenant complaints
Council audits
Trading Standards investigations
MEES compliance checks
Contact support:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/contact-us-epc-services-london/
Quick Compliance Guide
Selling:
✔ EPC before listing
✔ Provide to buyers
Letting:
✔ Rating E or above
✔ Provide to tenant
Commercial leasing:
✔ EPC before lease signing
✔ Display if public building
After upgrades:
✔ Consider reassessment
Check costs:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/pricing/
Final Advice
Most EPC fines occur not because landlords avoid compliance — but because they misunderstand timing rules.
The safest approach is simple:
If occupancy or ownership changes → check the EPC.
Arrange your certificate today:
👉 https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/
020 3488 4142
