Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a key part of buying, selling, and letting property in the UK. If you’re a landlord preparing a rental listing, an estate agent marketing a home, or a homeowner planning a move, understanding who can issue an EPC can help you act quickly and stay compliant. EPCs must be produced using approved software by a qualified assessor, and the certificate has to meet legal requirements set by the Government. Below, we explain who can issue an EPC certificate, what qualifications and processes are required, and how PropCert can support you across the UK.
In the UK, only authorised domestic energy assessors can issue EPCs
An EPC certificate cannot be issued by just anyone. In the UK, EPCs for domestic properties are produced by an approved energy assessor who holds the relevant accreditation and is registered to carry out EPC assessments. The assessor measures energy-related features of the property and estimates how energy efficient it is, producing a rating and recommendations for improvement. This means the person issuing the EPC must be properly qualified and permitted to do so—not simply a contractor or general surveyor.
- Domestic EPCs: issued by an approved domestic energy assessor.
- Non-domestic EPCs: issued by an accredited non-domestic energy assessor.
- Assessment output: the EPC is generated using Government-approved methodology and software.
For most people, the practical takeaway is simple: if an EPC is not produced by an authorised assessor, it may be invalid and can cause delays with sales, lettings, or compliance checks. That’s why choosing the right provider matters as much as the speed of turnaround.
What qualifies an assessor to issue an EPC certificate?
To issue an EPC, an assessor must be eligible under the UK’s energy performance regulations and work within the approved process. This involves being competent to assess the property’s energy efficiency, understanding relevant building services and insulation, and using the correct methodology. The assessor must also be registered with an appropriate accreditation scheme so the certificate can be lodged correctly. These requirements help ensure EPCs are consistent, auditable, and reflect the property as accurately as possible.
- Registration and accreditation: the assessor must be authorised to submit EPC data.
- Use of approved methodology: EPC calculations follow set rules and assumptions.
- Data collection: inspection information is recorded during the site visit.
- Submission: the EPC is generated and registered so it becomes publicly searchable.
Because EPCs rely on correct inputs, it’s also important that the assessor attends the property and collects the right information. For example, understanding heating systems, insulation levels, glazing types, and ventilation characteristics can significantly affect the final EPC rating. A strong assessor will also note any relevant details that landlords and homeowners can use to improve compliance and energy efficiency over time.
Can landlords, agents, or homeowners issue an EPC themselves?
In general, no. EPCs are not something landlords, estate agents, or homeowners can simply “write themselves” or self-certify without using an approved assessor. Even if you have invoices for boilers, insulation, or windows, an EPC still requires an on-site assessment and the correct calculations using approved software. If you try to bypass the process, the certificate may not be accepted for marketing or legal requirements.
- Landlords: can commission an EPC but cannot issue one themselves.
- Estate agents: may arrange EPCs for marketing but cannot generate them as the issuing party.
- Homeowners: can request an EPC for a sale or to prepare improvements, but must use an authorised assessor.
However, there are steps you can take to make the process easier and faster. If you’re a landlord, having service records for your heating system and any documentation for cavity wall insulation or loft insulation can help the assessor gather accurate information. For agents, scheduling access and ensuring the property is ready for an on-site visit reduces the risk of rebookings. For homeowners, understanding what you want to achieve—such as raising the EPC rating or meeting rental expectations—can help you use the EPC recommendations effectively.
How PropCert helps you get the right EPC—first time—across the UK
At PropCert, we provide energy compliance services that help landlords, homeowners, estate agents, and commercial property owners stay on top of obligations. We understand that EPCs are often part of a wider compliance picture, and delays can disrupt sales timelines, rental sign-ups, or marketing plans. Our team helps ensure your EPC is carried out by suitable qualified professionals, with clear communication and a practical approach to meeting requirements. We can also support customers with related inspections and certifications where helpful, so you’re not chasing multiple providers at short notice.
- EPCs for domestic and relevant energy performance needs
- Support for wider property compliance such as EICRs, CP12 gas safety, fire risk assessments, and asbestos surveys
- New-build compliance services including SAP EPCs, air pressure testing, ventilation testing, and Part O calculations
If you’re asking “who can issue an EPC certificate?”, the answer is straightforward: you need an authorised, qualified energy assessor who can carry out the assessment and submit the EPC correctly. Getting it right the first time reduces friction with transactions and helps you demonstrate compliance. Whether you’re preparing a rental, marketing a property for sale, or managing compliance for a portfolio, PropCert.co.uk is here to help you move forward with confidence.
Ready to arrange an EPC? Contact PropCert.co.uk today to get started and ensure your energy performance certificate is issued by the right professionals, in line with UK requirements.