EPC Must Be in Place Before Marketing Begins
In England and Wales, a commercial EPC must be available before a property is marketed for sale or rent. This means it should be commissioned before details are circulated to agents, listings go live, or particulars are shared with prospective tenants or buyers.
Important: Obtaining an EPC after marketing has started is already a breach of UK EPC regulations.
When a Lease Is Granted or Assigned
An EPC is also required when a new lease is granted or an existing lease is assigned. In some cases, lease renewals can trigger EPC requirements as well, particularly where a new agreement is entered into rather than an informal continuation.
Because the rules can vary depending on circumstances, it is always safer to check compliance with a qualified EPC assessor before progressing.
EPCs Are Valid for 10 Years
Commercial EPCs are valid for ten years. If a valid EPC already exists, a new one is not required each time the property changes hands, provided the certificate remains in date. Once an EPC has expired, however, a new assessment is required before any further marketing activity takes place.
You can check if your property already has a valid EPC on the government EPC register.
Exemptions Are Narrowly Defined
There are limited exemptions, but these are narrowly defined and frequently misunderstood. Assuming an exemption applies without proper confirmation is a common source of enforcement action.
Warning: Self-certifying an exemption without proper documentation can result in fines. Always verify exemption status with the local authority or a qualified assessor.
When You Need a Commercial EPC
| Situation | EPC Required? | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Marketing property for sale | Yes | Before marketing begins |
| Marketing property for rent | Yes | Before marketing begins |
| Granting a new lease | Yes | Before lease is granted |
| Assigning an existing lease | Yes | Before assignment |
| Property already sold/let (valid EPC exists) | No | N/A |
| Property used solely by owner (not marketed) | No | N/A |
Key Takeaway
EPC compliance is not just about having a certificate, it is about having the right certificate in place at the right time. Marketing a commercial property without a valid EPC exposes owners and agents to unnecessary risk.
Checking EPC status early, before instructions are issued or negotiations begin, is a simple step that can prevent delays, penalties, and reputational damage.
