With the growing demand for energy-efficient properties, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has become a vital part of any property transaction in the UK. Whether you’re selling, renting, or simply updating your property’s records, ordering an epc online has become the norm due to its speed and convenience. However, one important question that often arises is: How do I verify the legitimacy of an EPC certificate online?
Given the number of private services offering EPCs through digital platforms, verifying the authenticity of the certificate you receive is essential. Let’s explore how you can ensure that your EPC is valid, legally compliant, and recorded with the official register.
What Is an EPC Certificate?
An EPC, or Energy Performance Certificate, assesses the energy efficiency of a building and gives it a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). It also includes recommendations for improving energy performance, estimated costs of running the property, and potential savings.
This certificate is a legal requirement in the UK for properties being sold, rented, or built. It must be issued by an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA), and it should be logged on the official UK government EPC Register.
Why Is It Important to Verify an EPC?
Since it’s now easy to order an epc online, the risk of receiving an unofficial or unregistered certificate has also increased. A non-legitimate EPC can lead to:
- Legal issues during a property sale or rental
- Fines for non-compliance
- Misrepresentation of property energy ratings
- Loss of trust from buyers or tenants
Verifying your EPC ensures it’s issued by a qualified professional, follows UK regulations, and is recognised in the national system.
Step-by-Step: How Do I Verify the Legitimacy of an EPC Certificate Ordered Online?
To ensure your EPC is genuine and legally compliant, follow these simple steps:
1. Check the Official EPC Register
The UK government provides an official EPC register where all valid certificates must be logged. To check your EPC:
- Visit the official website: www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate
- Select the type of property (domestic or non-domestic)
- Enter the property address or the certificate’s RRN (Report Reference Number)
If your certificate appears in the results, it’s valid and legitimate. If it doesn’t, it means the certificate has not been registered, and you should take action immediately.
2. Confirm the Assessor’s Accreditation
Every legitimate EPC must be carried out by an accredited energy assessor. When you order your epc online, make sure the assessor or service provider is registered with a recognized accreditation scheme. In the UK, assessors must belong to one of the approved bodies such as:
- Elmhurst Energy
- Stroma
- Quidos
- Sterling Accreditation
- ECMK
You can ask your provider for the assessor’s name and accreditation ID, then verify their credentials through the accrediting body’s official site.
3. Look for the RRN on the Certificate
The Report Reference Number (RRN) is a 20-digit unique identification code assigned to every EPC. It is listed at the top of the certificate and is necessary for official tracking and verification.
When checking the certificate:
- Make sure the RRN is present and correctly formatted
- Use the RRN on the government EPC register to verify the certificate
- If the number doesn’t work or isn’t found, the certificate may be fake or unregistered
4. Examine the Certificate’s Details
A genuine EPC will contain:
- Property address
- Energy efficiency rating (A to G)
- Assessor’s name and accreditation number
- Date of assessment and date of expiry
- Recommendations for energy efficiency improvements
Cross-check the property address, assessor details, and dates. If any of this information is missing, inconsistent, or looks suspicious, the certificate may not be legitimate.
5. Review the Delivery Method
When you receive your EPC through an epc online provider, it should be delivered in a standardized PDF format and not as an image or unbranded document. Official EPCs follow a specific layout approved by the UK government.
If your document looks unprofessional, lacks assessor details, or seems incomplete, request clarification from the service provider or consult the EPC register.
6. Contact the Accreditation Body if in Doubt
Still unsure about your certificate? Contact the accreditation body the assessor is registered with. Provide them with the RRN, assessor’s name, and the certificate itself. They can confirm its legitimacy or inform you if something is wrong.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When ordering your EPC online, be cautious of the following red flags:
- No RRN or official government logo
- Vague company information or no contact number
- Extremely low prices (e.g., £20 or less)
- Promises of certificates without property visits (a legal EPC requires a site inspection)
- Delays in delivery without explanation
Always ensure you’re dealing with a reputable epc online provider who follows proper procedures and regulations.
Why You Should Always Use Trusted EPC Online Services
Legitimate epc online services provide:
- Fully accredited energy assessors
- Transparent pricing
- Officially registered certificates
- Fast processing and delivery
- Direct registration with the government EPC database
Before booking, look for customer reviews, clear credentials, and visible contact information. It’s also a good idea to ask questions about the process and ensure they adhere to UK standards.
Conclusion
So, how do I verify the legitimacy of an EPC certificate ordered online? The key is to check the certificate on the official government EPC register, confirm the assessor’s accreditation, verify the RRN, and closely examine the document’s details. In a market where efficiency and compliance are critical, verifying your epc online is not just a smart move—it’s a legal necessity.
Don’t take shortcuts with something as crucial as your property’s energy certification. A little due diligence now can save you from legal trouble and provide peace of mind when renting or selling your property.
