What certificates do I need to sell my house?

There’s a lot to remember when it comes to selling a home, so don’t worry if certificates aren’t the first thing on your mind.

Luckily, we’ve made a list of all the essential bits and bobs you’ll need to present to your buyer.

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) — An EPC shows how energy efficient your home is, and how expensive it might be to address any inefficiencies. As the seller, you’re legally obliged to provide the buyer with a valid EPC (they’re valid for 10 years, and need to be renewed). Listed buildings do not require an EPC. You can ask your estate agent to recommend a qualified assessor if you don’t have an EPC.
• FENSA certificates — Wait, do you need a FENSA certificate to sell a house? If you’ve had double glazing installed whilst owning your home, then yes, you’ll need to provide the buyer with a FENSA certificate. This proves that your windows are compliant with building regulations, and the job was carried out by a qualified person. Like the EPC, these are valid for 10 years. If you have trouble finding your documentation, you can find and order your FENSA certificate online.
• Electrical certificate — If you’ve carried out electrical works, such as rewiring a house, then you’ll need to provide documentation to the buyer. For example, an EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — should be completed by a qualified electrician following work. While this is not a legal requirement for homeowners, it’s certainly recommended and will give the buyer peace of mind.
• Completion certificates — Is a completion certificate required to sell a house? If you’ve done any structural works, such as changing pipes or services, you should present the buyer with a completion certificate which meets building regulations. Failure to do so may deter a buyer, as without a certificate, their ability to get a mortgage on the property, or buildings insurance, may be affected.

There is loads to remember when it comes to selling a property, and certificates are just one piece of the pie.

Read our moving house checklist to make sure you’ve got everything covered.

Nested puts homeowners in control of their sale. Our agents provide you with smarter insights so you achieve the best price for your home on your timeframe. When you’ve found your new home, you have the power to move chain free, while we take care of your sale. Our buying agent will even negotiate up to 5% saving on your new home, so you get more home for your money.

If you’re interested in selling smarter, get in touch today. Nested.com - The modern way to move.