Since 1 October 2008 all homes have needed an Energy Performance Certificate when built or sold. For rented properties an EPC will need to be provided whenever a self-contained property is let to a new tenant.

It is the responsibility of the person selling or renting a building to have a valid EPC to show to prospective buyers and tenants. The EPC must be given to the eventual buyer or tenant.

An EPC is valid for ten years, except for sales of homes which are subject to the Home Information Pack Regulations 2007, where a Home Information Pack (HIP) is required. In these cases an EPC must be no more than three years old when the property is first marketed.