diff --git a/tests/applications/modelling_e2e/test_handler.py b/tests/applications/modelling_e2e/test_handler.py
index 18a887864..eb3e943c6 100644
--- a/tests/applications/modelling_e2e/test_handler.py
+++ b/tests/applications/modelling_e2e/test_handler.py
@@ -1458,6 +1458,21 @@ def test_gov_cert_newer_than_stored_survey_wins_and_is_flagged_for_saving() -> N
     assert chosen_is_fetched is True
 
 
+def test_gov_cert_is_used_when_nothing_is_stored() -> None:
+    """Only the gov cert exists: it is the assessment, and it must be persisted."""
+    # Arrange
+    from applications.modelling_e2e.handler import _newer_lodged
+
+    fetched = _lodged_epc("2023-12-01")
+
+    # Act
+    chosen, chosen_is_fetched = _newer_lodged(None, fetched)
+
+    # Assert
+    assert chosen is fetched
+    assert chosen_is_fetched is True
+
+
 def test_refetch_epc_false_with_stored_epc_skips_api_call() -> None:
     """refetch_epc=False + stored lodged EPC present: EpcClientService.get_by_uprn
     is never called; the stored EPC is used and reaches run_modelling."""