Energy Performance Certificate London: EPC Guide for Landlords and Agents

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), estimates running costs, and lists recommendations for improvement. It is produced by an accredited domestic energy assessor and lodged on the national EPC register. For most sales and lettings in London, a valid EPC is a legal requirement and one of the documents an agent needs before marketing can begin.

You need a valid EPC whenever a property is built, sold, or let — and it must be commissioned before the property is marketed. An EPC lasts 10 years, so you do not need a new one for every let or sale if a current certificate exists, but you should always check the rating still meets the minimum standard for letting. Commercial premises have separate rules — see our commercial EPC London guide.

Landlords must have a valid EPC before letting, and privately rented homes in England and Wales must currently meet a minimum rating of band E, unless a valid exemption is registered — it is unlawful to let a property rated F or G without one. Sellers must have an EPC commissioned before marketing for sale. Agents cannot market a property without a valid EPC, and the rating must appear on listings. (⚠ VERIFY: the government confirmed in January 2026 its intention to raise the minimum to band C, expected to apply to all private tenancies by 1 October 2030, with higher penalties and a per-property spending cap — legislation still to follow. Confirm the current position before publishing any dates or figures.)

A domestic EPC assessment is a quick, non-invasive survey by an accredited EPC assessor. The assessor measures the property, inspects the heating, hot water, insulation, glazing and lighting, notes the construction type, and takes photographs as evidence. They then produce the A–G rating with recommendations and lodge the certificate on the national register. Because it is minimally disruptive, it can usually be slotted in alongside Property Photography.

The cost depends on the size and type of property, access and location in London, and whether you bundle the EPC with services such as Property Photography or floor plans. Bundling is usually the most cost-effective route, since one visit covers both your compliance certificate and your marketing assets. Property Motion uses transparent, honest pricing with no hidden micro-fees. [CONFIRM PRICE] For a full breakdown, see our EPC certificate cost guide.

An EPC is valid for 10 years from the date it is lodged. You can let or sell using an existing in-date EPC, but check two things: that the rating still meets the minimum standard for letting (F or G properties cannot be let without a registered exemption), and that the property hasn't changed — works such as a new boiler or insulation may earn a better rating worth re-certifying.

Yes — and for most listings it's the smart approach. Property Motion lets you order an EPC, Property Photography and floor plans together, so one appointment covers your compliance certificate and marketing assets at once. Many landlords and agents add a Gas Safety Certificate and an EICR to the same booking — see our full guide to landlord certificates in London.

Property Motion is a centralised platform for property professionals in London. Order an EPC from accredited assessors, track the booking, and receive the certificate through one dashboard — without chasing separate suppliers. Order it on its own or bundle it with photography, floor plans and other compliance certificates to save time across your portfolio.