How long is an EPC valid for? - Richard Kendall Estate Agents

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is one of the key documents you’ll need when selling your home. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the duration of your home’s EPC and its importance in the selling process.

What is an EPC?

An EPC provides a rating of your home’s energy efficiency and its environmental impact. The rating ranges from ‘A’ (most efficient) to ‘G’ (least efficient) and includes recommendations for improving energy efficiency. The certificate helps potential buyers understand the energy performance of the property they are considering buying, as this will dictate how much it costs to run said property.

How long is an EPC valid for?

Once your home been issued its EPC rating, it will be valid for 10 years. This means that if you have an EPC rating that was issued within the last decade, you can use it to sell your property without needing a new assessment. However, if your EPC is older than 10 years, you’ll need to commission a new one before you can place your home on the market.

Checking your EPC’s validity

You can refer to the certificate itself to check if your EPC is still valid as it should state the date of issue and the expiry date. Additionally, you can look up your property’s EPC through GOV.uk, where you can download a copy of the certificate and verify its validity.

When should I get a new EPC?

Even though EPCs have a 10-year life-span, there are circumstances when you might consider getting a new one before selling your home:

Renovations – If you have made significant energy efficiency improvements to your home, such as double glazing, installing a new boiler, or insulation, a new EPC could reflect these changes and provide a better rating.
Marketing to buyers – If potential buyers express concern about the current EPC rating, an updated assessment might help reassure them of the property’s efficiency.
Standing out in a busy market – In a competitive market, having an up-to-date EPC with a good rating can make your property stand out from the rest.

Times when EPC's are exempt

Certain properties are exempt from requiring an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) under UK regulations. These include listed buildings or those in conservation areas where energy efficiency improvements would unacceptably alter their character or appearance. Additionally, buildings with a total floor area of under 50 square metres, non-residential agricultural buildings, places of worship, and temporary structures used for less than two years do not require an EPC. Richard Kendall Estate Agent can help clarify whether a specific property falls under any of these exemptions, ensuring compliance with EPC regulations while preserving the unique nature of special properties.

How to get a new EPC

You can obtain an up-to-date EPC rating by contacting any of our local offices, here at Richard Kendall we have qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). The Energy Performance assessment can be carried out at the same time as the photographs in preparation to listing the property for sale to ensure compliance with legal requirements and to leave some time to make cost-effective improvements.

If you require an EPC on your property telephone us today - We can help!

What Our Customers Say...

As electrical contractors, CRE Electricians have had the pleasure of working alongside Richard Kendall in Wakefield for some time now, and we consistently experience a smooth and efficient partnership. What stands out is their exceptional organisation and communication skills. Getting access to properties is always seamless, keys are sorted promptly and the team always work for one another if someones out of the office. A special mention to Alannah, Jessica and Elisa who work especially hard to ensure a smooth experience for all involved in our electrical works. We look forward to continuing our working relationship! Thanks again guys, keep up the good work! Team @ CRE Electricians Chris 15/04/2025

Just completed upon my mum’s bungalow in Horbury Wakefield. This was a complex sale (Shared Ownership Scheme) involving Landlord, their Solicitors & Managing Agents working in conjunction with my Solicitors and the Purchasers Solicitors. It was extremely challenging and demanding but was successfully orchestrated and managed by their Senior Property Consultant Mandy Bennett based in their Ossett Agency. We fully recognise and appreciate this was only achieved through the hard work and persistence of Mandy supported by her fellow colleagues in the local area. We were always kept up to date at all stages and would highly recommend Richard Kendall’s Estate Agents. Steve 15/04/2025

From the outset it was a privilege to converse with Karen Marijewko. She made the whole process very straightforward. The Richard Kendall software system updating me regularly with viewings was extremely good. Overall a simple, clear and efficient process. Highly recommend this company and Karen. Mr Snow 15/04/2025

We would like to thank Catherine and Shireen for working so hard in our selling/buying. They were so knowledgeable, polite and extremely helpful. They gave us lots of support. All the other staff were helpful too, especially Margaret. Thank you so much. Kind regards, Sue and Keith. Sue 15/04/2025

Excellent service. Can't rate Leah enough at Ossett branch. She went above and beyond to get our completion through before the end March. Alan 15/04/2025

Richard Kendall Estate Agents guided us through a tough buyer’s market when other agents pushed us to drastically lower our property’s price. Despite our urgency to sell, they advised against a steep reduction, suggesting a modest drop instead. Their insight—that finding the right buyer takes time—proved spot-on. Within a week of the adjustment, a couple fell in love with our home and bought it, leaving us wondering if we’d undersold. Alison and the team were professional, communicative, and strategic—focused on value, not just a quick sale. Highly recommend! David 15/04/2025

A very good experience with Liz at Richard Kendals. She was always in touch either by email or phone call. I would highly recommend RK. For buying and selling. Thank you to Liz and everyone at RK. Excellent customer service. Christine 15/04/2025

Just want to give Alison Hopkinson 10/10 For helping me through my sale always ringing me letting me know about the progression of my sale thanks again Alison Antony 15/04/2025