How to Get a Copy of My EPC Certificate

An Energy Performance Certificate, often referred to as an EPC, is an important document that shows the energy efficiency of a property. Whether you are a homeowner planning to sell, a landlord renting to tenants, or simply someone who has misplaced their original paperwork, knowing how to get a copy of your EPC certificate is essential. Many people are unsure where to start and there is often confusion about whether it needs to be reapplied for or simply downloaded again. This guide will walk you through the process step by step and explain what you need to know.

What is an EPC Certificate?

An EPC certificate is a legally required document that rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient. The certificate also provides recommendations for improvements that could help reduce energy costs and lower carbon emissions. EPCs are required whenever a property is built, sold, or rented, and they remain valid for ten years unless significant changes are made to the property that would affect energy performance.

For homeowners, the EPC is part of the documentation needed when selling. For landlords, it is a legal obligation to provide tenants with a valid EPC at the start of a tenancy. For business owners and property developers, EPCs also apply to commercial buildings. If you lose your certificate or need an additional copy, you do not need to arrange for a new inspection unless the existing one has expired. Instead, you can access it online through the government register.

Where EPC Certificates Are Stored

In the UK, EPC certificates are stored on a national government database. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you can search for your property using the official EPC Register. In Scotland, EPCs are managed separately and can be accessed through the Scottish EPC Register. These online databases allow anyone to search for a property’s EPC by postcode or report reference number. This system ensures that certificates are easily accessible and avoids unnecessary duplication of energy assessments.

Because EPCs are part of public property information, they can be viewed by potential buyers or tenants who want to check a property’s efficiency rating before making a decision. However, only the official register should be used when searching for or downloading a copy, as this guarantees that the document is valid and up to date.

How to Get a Copy of Your EPC Certificate

To obtain a copy of your EPC, you need to search the EPC register relevant to your location. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, visit the government EPC Register and enter your postcode. This will display a list of properties at that address and you can select yours to view or download the certificate. If you know your certificate number, you can also search directly using the report reference.

In Scotland, the process is similar but uses a different database. You can search for the certificate by postcode or property details and then download the EPC in PDF format. Both systems allow you to print or save the certificate for your records.

It is worth noting that you do not need to contact the original energy assessor unless there is a problem with the listing. For most people, downloading from the register is straightforward and free.

When You Might Need a New EPC

If your EPC is still within its ten year validity, a copy from the register will be sufficient for legal and practical purposes. However, there are situations where arranging for a new assessment may be sensible or even required. For example, if you have carried out significant energy efficiency improvements such as installing insulation, fitting double glazing, or upgrading heating systems, your existing EPC will not reflect these changes. Obtaining a new assessment will help demonstrate improved performance, which can be valuable when selling or renting out the property.

Similarly, if your EPC has expired, you will need a new one before you can legally sell or let your property. The process involves booking an accredited domestic energy assessor, who will visit the property, carry out checks, and issue a new certificate. The cost of an EPC can vary depending on the type and size of the property, but it is generally a relatively low one-off expense.

Why Having a Copy is Important

Keeping a copy of your EPC certificate ensures you can provide it promptly when required, which avoids delays in property transactions or tenancy agreements. For landlords, failure to supply a valid EPC can result in financial penalties. For homeowners, it is part of the essential documentation needed by solicitors and estate agents during a sale.

Even if you are not selling or renting, having access to the EPC can be useful. It provides an overview of your property’s energy performance and practical suggestions for reducing costs. With energy prices remaining a key concern for many households, acting on these recommendations could bring long term financial savings.

Common Issues When Accessing an EPC

In most cases, retrieving a certificate is straightforward, but there are situations where problems arise. Occasionally, the property may not appear on the register, often because it has not been assessed before or because the certificate has expired and been removed. In such cases, the only option is to commission a new EPC.

Another common issue is when property details have changed, for example following a conversion or significant building work. If the address on the register does not match the current postal address, you may need to update property records and arrange for a fresh assessment.

It is also possible that the certificate exists but has been registered incorrectly. If you believe this is the case, contacting the accreditation scheme of the original assessor is the best way to resolve the matter.

Final Thoughts

Getting a copy of your EPC certificate is a simple process that can usually be completed online in a matter of minutes. By searching the government register, you can download and save your certificate without needing to pay or arrange a new inspection, as long as your current EPC is still valid. For property owners and landlords, ensuring that this documentation is in place is not only a legal requirement but also a practical step in managing property responsibilities smoothly. If your EPC has expired or no longer reflects the condition of your property, commissioning a new assessment is the best option.