How to Get a Copy of My EPC Certificate

An Energy Performance Certificate, often called an EPC, is an essential document for property owners, landlords and tenants across the UK. It shows how energy efficient a property is and provides recommendations on how to reduce costs and improve sustainability. EPCs are legally required when a property is built, sold or rented, and landlords must provide one to tenants at the start of a tenancy. For homeowners, an EPC can highlight where energy bills might be reduced, and for buyers or renters it provides reassurance about the efficiency of the property.

Sometimes a certificate can go missing or expire, which often leads people to wonder how to get a copy of their EPC. Fortunately, the process is straightforward as all certificates are stored in an official online register. Understanding how to retrieve or replace your EPC ensures you remain compliant with the law and keeps you fully informed about your property’s energy performance.

Why an EPC Certificate Matters

An EPC is not just a formality. It rates the energy efficiency of a property from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G being the least. The certificate includes details on energy use, carbon dioxide emissions and estimated running costs. It also provides a set of tailored recommendations for improvement, which could include adding insulation, upgrading heating systems or improving glazing. Having access to a valid EPC is crucial if you are selling or letting, as transactions cannot be legally completed without it. For landlords, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards mean that properties must generally meet at least EPC rating E, with government plans to raise expectations to C in the future.

Checking If You Already Have an EPC

Before applying for a new certificate, it is worth checking whether you already have a valid one. EPCs are valid for ten years, and if the property has not been sold or rented during that time, it may still be in date. You can search for your property’s certificate by address on the government’s official EPC register. If a certificate exists, you will be able to view it and download a copy free of charge. This makes the process simple and avoids unnecessary costs of commissioning a new assessment.

What to Do If Your EPC Has Expired

If your search shows that the EPC has expired or there is no record for your property, you will need to arrange for a new assessment. This must be carried out by an accredited energy assessor. The assessor will visit your property, check insulation levels, heating systems, windows and lighting, then calculate the rating using approved software. Once completed, the certificate is lodged on the national register, where you will be able to download copies as needed. Even if you are not selling or letting, updating your EPC can be useful if you have carried out improvements and want to see how they have affected your property’s energy efficiency.

Finding an Accredited Energy Assessor

If you require a new EPC, it is important to use a properly accredited energy assessor. These professionals are trained and recognised under the official scheme to ensure that certificates are consistent and reliable. You can search for assessors by location, and many local assessors advertise their services online. Once you have arranged an appointment, the process usually takes less than an hour depending on the size and complexity of the property. The cost varies depending on the assessor and the type of building, but it is typically a modest fee given the certificate’s ten year validity.

Accessing and Downloading Your EPC Copy

Once the certificate has been issued, it will be uploaded to the online EPC register. From there you can download and print as many copies as you need. This is particularly useful for landlords who may need to provide certificates to multiple tenants, or homeowners preparing for a sale. It is advisable to keep both a digital copy and a printed copy for convenience. Estate agents and letting agents will often ask for a copy, so having it easily available avoids delays in the process.

The Importance of Keeping Your EPC Up to Date

While an EPC is valid for ten years, property standards and energy efficiency requirements evolve over time. Keeping your EPC up to date not only helps with compliance but also gives you the chance to demonstrate the efficiency of your property. With rising energy costs and greater focus on sustainability, buyers and tenants increasingly look at EPC ratings as part of their decision making. A higher rating can make your property more attractive, while a poor rating can affect value or restrict your ability to let.

Conclusion

Getting a copy of your EPC certificate is a straightforward process that provides peace of mind and ensures compliance with UK property regulations. In many cases, you can simply search the EPC register by address and download your certificate instantly. If no certificate is available or it has expired, an accredited energy assessor can provide a new one and lodge it on the register for easy future access. By keeping your EPC valid and accessible, you not only meet your legal obligations but also gain valuable insight into your property’s efficiency and running costs.