EPC for selling

Do I need an EPC to sell my house?

Yes. You need a valid Energy Performance Certificate before you put your home on the market in England. Your estate agent will ask for it before your listing goes live, and the rating has to appear in the advert. An EPC is valid for 10 years, so you may already have one you can use.

Check the register first

Before you book, look your address up on the official EPC register. If your certificate is less than 10 years old and you have not made big changes since, you can use it again for free. If it has expired, or you have added insulation, a new boiler or new windows since it was done, a fresh EPC may show a better rating to buyers.

You can check if your home already has an EPC in a minute or two.

How much does an EPC cost for a sale?

My prices are simple and include lodgement on the government register, with no VAT on top:

• 1 to 3 bedroom home, including flats: £79

• 4 bedroom home: £125

• 5 bedroom home: £150

• Optional same day lodgement: £10

Many firms quote plus VAT or charge lodgement separately. I do not. See the full EPC prices for every size of home.

How long does an EPC take?

The visit is usually 30 to 60 minutes for a typical 1 to 3 bed home; larger homes take longer. I can often visit the same or next day, subject to availability. Your certificate is usually lodged within 2 to 3 days. If your agent is waiting to go live, add same day lodgement for £10 when you book and I will lodge it the same day as the visit.

What happens on the day?

I look at the walls, roof, windows, heating, hot water and lighting, take measurements and photos, and check the loft if I can reach it. You do not need to do anything special, but a little preparation helps. Read what happens on your EPC assessment day.