Do You Need an EPC to Sell or Rent a Commercial Property?

If you’re planning to sell or lease a non-domestic property in the UK, there’s one legal requirement you can’t afford to ignore: the Commercial Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

Whether you’re a landlord, business owner, or property investor, this guide will explain:

• When an EPC is legally required

• What the regulations say

• The consequences of non-compliance

• How to stay compliant — quickly and affordably

Let’s clear up the confusion.

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📋 What Is a Commercial EPC?

A Commercial EPC is a document that shows how energy-efficient a commercial building is. It provides:

• An energy rating from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient)

• CO₂ emissions data

• Recommendations for improving energy efficiency

Issued by a qualified Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA), a Commercial EPC is valid for 10 years, unless the building is significantly modified.

If you’re unfamiliar with how a Commercial EPC works, read our full guide:
👉 What Is a Commercial EPC and Do You Need One?

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✅ When Do You Need a Commercial EPC?

You must have a valid EPC if you are:

• 🏢 Selling a non-domestic property

• 📝 Leasing or renting to a new tenant

• 🏗️ Constructing a new commercial building

• 🔁 Renewing a lease in some circumstances

• 🧱 Splitting a building into units for separate sale or lease

🏷️ Marketing Restrictions

Legally, you cannot advertise a commercial property for sale or rent without a valid EPC. The rating must be included in all marketing materials, including:

• Online listings

• Property brochures

• Agent adverts

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⚖️ What Does the Law Say?

The requirement for an EPC comes from the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012. Enforcement is typically handled by local Trading Standards officers.

You’re required to:

• Obtain an EPC before marketing the property

• Provide the EPC to any prospective tenant or buyer

• Give a copy to the new owner/tenant when the property changes hands

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🚫 What Happens If You Don’t Have an EPC?

If you fail to provide a valid EPC when required, you may face:

• ❌ Fines of £500 to £5,000 depending on the size of the building

• ❌ Legal complications in the sale or letting process

• ❌ Delays in transactions, especially with commercial solicitors involved

• ❌ Risk of enforcement action from local authorities

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🏚️ What About Empty or Exempt Properties?

You may not need a Commercial EPC if:

• The property is listed and the assessment would alter its character

• The building is temporary and used for under 2 years

• It’s used for worship or religious purposes

• The property is detached, under 50m², and not for rent or sale

• The property is scheduled for demolition

However, exemptions are rare and should be checked with an assessor.

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🔎 Do You Need a New EPC If One Already Exists?

If a valid EPC (less than 10 years old) exists and reflects the current state of the building, it can often be reused. However, you may need a new one if:

• Major alterations have been made (extensions, new heating systems)

• The old EPC has expired

• The property has been subdivided

📌 Tip: Always check the EPC Register or contact us to check your current certificate’s status.

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⛔ MEES Regulations: Another Reason to Get Compliant

Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), you cannot grant a new lease on a commercial property with an EPC rating below E — unless you register an exemption.

This makes your EPC not just a legal requirement, but a gateway to leasing your property at all.

Learn more in our MEES guide:
👉 MEES Compliance Services

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📑 What’s Involved in Getting a Commercial EPC?

Getting a Commercial EPC is straightforward with Assessment Hive:

1. ✅ Book your assessment online or by phone

2. 🏢 Site survey or remote data collection

3. 🧮 SBEM modelling to calculate your EPC rating

4. 📄 Certificate lodged with the official EPC Register

5. 📥 Digital copy delivered to your inbox

For a full breakdown, read:
👉 What Happens During a Commercial EPC Assessment?

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💷 How Much Does a Commercial EPC Cost?

Prices vary based on:

• Property size

• Complexity

• Location

• Building use (e.g. office, warehouse, retail)

Typical Commercial EPCs range from £195 to £600+, depending on these factors.

For more detail, see:
👉 How Much Does a Commercial EPC Cost in the UK?

Or get a quick quote here:
📩 Contact Assessment Hive

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✅ Why Choose Assessment Hive?

We make Commercial EPCs:

• ✅ Fast — turnaround in 1–3 days

• ✅ Nationwide — on-site or remote service

• ✅ Affordable — transparent pricing

• ✅ Compliant — fully accredited assessors

• ✅ Easy — expert support every step of the way

From EPCs to SBEM Calculations, Overheating Assessments, and more — we’re your one-stop shop for energy compliance.

Explore all our services:
👉 Our Services

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🚀 Ready to Sell or Rent Your Property?

Make sure your property is compliant and ready for sale or lease.

📞 Request your Commercial EPC today
📍 Nationwide, reliable, professional service