Key facts
- An existing tenancy does not automatically end when the EPC reaches 10 years.
- GOV.UK: existing occupiers do not need an EPC unless they sell, assign or sublet.
- You generally still need a valid EPC before marketing the dwelling to let again.
What happens if an EPC runs out during a tenancy?
GOV.UK guidance for dwellings in England and Wales is that existing occupiers and tenants will not require an EPC unless they sell, assign or sublet their interest in the building. The tenancy does not fall over on the tenth anniversary by itself.
The practical failure is the next void: you go to re-let, the certificate is 10 years old, and you cannot advertise until an assessor has lodged a new one. If the EPC has already expired and you need steps today, use the expired-EPC action page.
What changes the day an EPC expires
A domestic EPC is normally valid for 10 years from the assessment date, or until a newer EPC is produced. After that date, treat it as expired. Before putting the building on the market, the seller or landlord must commission an EPC if no valid one exists.
An expired EPC is different from a valid EPC with a poor rating. Expiry is a date problem. Band F or G where MEES applies (England and Wales) is a rating problem on a valid certificate.
Practical risks for landlords
The common failure is listing a property with an out-of-date EPC. That can delay a let and force a last-minute assessor booking. Rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland — confirm the official source for the property’s nation rather than copying England and Wales wording blindly.
What to do next
If you are still in an existing tenancy and not marketing, note the expiry, book an assessor before you need to advertise, and store the new date. If you are already marketing or about to, pause listings that need a valid EPC and get the assessment done. Then set a reminder for the next 10-year cycle — Certs Reminder can email you at 30, 7 and 1 day after you confirm the dates.
Official sources
Regulatory statements on this page are general information. Confirm the current rule for your property with the publisher.
Frequently asked questions
What happens when an EPC expires?
You generally need a new EPC before marketing the property to let. An existing tenancy does not automatically end. Check any minimum energy efficiency duties that still apply to the rating on a valid certificate.
What happens if an EPC runs out during a tenancy?
GOV.UK: existing occupiers and tenants will not require an EPC unless they sell, assign or sublet their interest. Plan a new EPC before you re-let or market the dwelling.
Can tenants stay if the EPC expires mid-tenancy?
An existing tenancy does not automatically end because an EPC reaches its 10-year date. The usual problem is marketing, re-letting, and having a valid certificate on file when you next need one.
How do I avoid missing the next EPC expiry?
Upload the EPC and confirm the expiry date we extract. Create a free Certs Reminder account for email alerts before you plan to re-let.
Related questions
Tools and next steps
- Set a free EPC expiry reminder Emails at 30, 7 and 1 day before the 10-year date
- Landlord certificate reminders Same alerts for Gas Safety and EICR