How to Get a Copy of My EPC Certificate

An Energy Performance Certificate, or EPC, is a document that rates the energy efficiency of a property from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. EPCs are used to inform prospective buyers or tenants about a building’s likely energy costs and environmental impact. They also include recommendations for improving energy performance. In the UK, EPCs are required when a property is constructed, sold, or rented, and the certificate is valid for ten years. Having a copy of your EPC is important for legal compliance, property transactions, and planning energy improvements.

Why You Might Need a Copy of Your EPC

There are several reasons homeowners, landlords, or property managers may need a copy of an EPC certificate. If you are selling or renting a property, you must provide a copy to prospective buyers or tenants. Copies are also needed if you want to review recommendations for energy efficiency improvements or if the original certificate has been misplaced. For listed buildings, historic properties, or commercial premises, a copy ensures that any future changes or renovations remain compliant with energy regulations.

Where EPCs Are Stored

EPCs are recorded on government-approved databases. In England and Wales, the Domestic Energy Performance Certificate Register stores EPCs for residential properties, while commercial and non-domestic EPCs are registered on separate databases. These registers allow property owners and authorised users to access a copy of the certificate electronically. A copy obtained from the official register is legally valid and accepted in all transactions, even if the original document has been lost.

How to Request a Copy

To obtain a copy of your EPC certificate, you need to know either the property address or the certificate number. If you have the address, you can search the official EPC register for your property. Once located, you can download or print a digital copy. If you have the certificate number from a previous assessment, entering it in the search system allows direct access to the certificate. Homeowners and landlords can use this process to ensure they have a valid and up-to-date copy for legal or transactional purposes.

Using the Official Register

The official EPC register provides a centralised system for accessing certificates. Users can search by postcode or address to locate their property’s EPC. Once found, the digital copy can be downloaded or printed for record-keeping. For commercial or non-domestic properties, the non-domestic EPC register operates similarly, and certificate details are maintained for ten years after issue. Accessing the register is free and provides a legally recognised copy of the certificate.

Dealing with a Missing or Lost Certificate

If the original EPC has been lost, damaged, or misplaced, obtaining a copy from the official register is the quickest solution. In cases where the certificate cannot be found on the register, it may indicate that the assessment was not properly lodged, or that the property has undergone changes requiring a new EPC. In such instances, property owners must arrange for a new assessment by an accredited energy assessor to ensure compliance with regulations.

For Landlords and Rental Properties

Landlords are legally required to provide a valid EPC to prospective tenants before renting a property. If the EPC cannot be found, the landlord must commission a new assessment. Failure to provide a certificate can result in fines and penalties. Keeping a copy of the EPC on file and ensuring it is registered on the official database avoids complications during tenancy agreements or property inspections.

For Buyers and Sellers

During property sales, the EPC must be provided to prospective buyers. Real estate agents often request a copy for marketing purposes. If a seller has misplaced the certificate, retrieving it from the official register ensures compliance and avoids delays in the sale process. Buyers can also verify the certificate via the register to confirm accuracy and check recommendations for energy efficiency improvements.

Electronic Copies vs Physical Copies

Digital copies obtained from the official register are legally valid and widely accepted. Printing a physical copy may be necessary for convenience, presentation during property viewings, or record-keeping. Both digital and printed copies contain the same information, including the energy efficiency rating, predicted energy costs, carbon dioxide emissions, and recommended improvements.

Updating EPCs

An EPC is valid for ten years, but significant property renovations may necessitate an updated certificate. Changes such as installing new heating systems, insulation, or energy-efficient windows can improve the rating. Obtaining an updated EPC ensures the register reflects the property’s current energy performance and provides accurate information for buyers, tenants, or regulatory compliance.

Professional Advice and Local Support

Property owners should consider consulting accredited EPC assessors if they need a new certificate or clarification on existing recommendations. Qualified assessors can provide advice on legal requirements, interpret recommendations, and ensure that energy efficiency improvements are compatible with the property’s structure, especially for listed or historic buildings. This support ensures compliance and maximises energy savings while preserving the property’s integrity.

Benefits of Having a Copy of Your EPC

Having a copy of your EPC certificate provides several advantages. It ensures compliance with legal requirements, facilitates property sales or rentals, allows monitoring of energy efficiency over time, and supports planning for improvements. For listed buildings or historic properties, it provides a record of permitted measures and helps avoid accidental breaches of heritage regulations. It also enables homeowners and landlords to track progress and evaluate the impact of energy-saving initiatives.

Practical Steps for Property Owners

Property owners should first check any existing documentation for the certificate. If unavailable, they should search the official EPC register using the property address or certificate number. Download and store both digital and printed copies for future reference. If the certificate cannot be located, arrange a new assessment with an accredited assessor. Ensure the new certificate is registered appropriately to maintain legal compliance and record-keeping.

Understanding EPC Recommendations

EPCs include suggestions for improving energy efficiency. Typical recommendations include upgrading insulation, installing energy-efficient heating systems, improving lighting with LEDs, or adding secondary glazing. These measures are advisory, and not all may be feasible for listed or heritage buildings. Understanding these recommendations allows property owners to plan upgrades that are effective, compliant, and sensitive to the building’s character.

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Providing a valid EPC is a legal requirement for selling or renting properties. For missing certificates, obtaining a copy from the register or commissioning a new assessment ensures compliance and avoids fines. Landlords and homeowners should maintain records of EPCs for at least ten years, as required by law, and provide certificates to prospective tenants or buyers as part of property transactions.

Conclusion: How to Get a Copy of Your EPC Certificate

Obtaining a copy of your EPC certificate involves either accessing the official register or commissioning a new assessment if the certificate is missing. Digital copies are legally valid and provide the energy efficiency rating, predicted costs, and recommended improvements. Property owners can use the certificate to comply with regulations, plan energy efficiency upgrades, and provide transparency to buyers or tenants. Keeping a copy ensures that properties remain compliant with UK energy legislation, supports informed decisions, and helps maximise long-term energy savings and sustainability.