When An EPC Is Needed - My Guide Tells You All You Need To Know.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is needed in various scenarios related to sales, lettings, holiday lets, and houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs). In England and Wales, these requirements are governed by The Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012. Here's an overview of when an EPC is needed in each of these situations, in accordance with these regulations:

Sales:

1. Residential Properties: The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012 mandates that an EPC is required when selling residential properties in England and Wales. The certificate must be obtained before the property is advertised and made available to potential buyers.
2. Commercial Properties: The regulations also cover the sale of commercial properties. When selling a commercial property in England and Wales, an EPC is necessary. It should be provided to prospective buyers.

Lettings:

1. Residential Properties: The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012 requires landlords in England and Wales to provide an EPC to prospective tenants when letting out a residential property. The certificate must be provided before the tenancy agreement is signed.
2. Commercial Properties: Similarly, when letting out a commercial property in England and Wales, landlords are obligated to provide an EPC to potential tenants. The certificate should be made available during the marketing of the property.

Holiday Lets:

The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012 also applies to holiday lets in England and Wales. Property owners offering their property as a holiday let generally need an EPC. However, exemptions may apply if the property is rented out for less than four months a year, is a listed building, or is a place of worship.

Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs):

HMOs are subject to energy efficiency requirements under The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2012 in England and Wales. When letting or selling an HMO, an EPC is typically needed to comply with the regulations. It's important to note that specific HMO licensing requirements may also apply.



These regulations aim to promote energy efficiency and provide information to potential buyers, tenants, and holidaymakers regarding the energy performance of a property. Property owners and landlords should ensure compliance with The Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 to meet their obligations regarding EPCs.