diff --git a/applications/modelling_e2e/handler.py b/applications/modelling_e2e/handler.py
index ea3708a06..6ac534f2e 100644
--- a/applications/modelling_e2e/handler.py
+++ b/applications/modelling_e2e/handler.py
@@ -643,9 +643,11 @@ def handler(
             )
 
             stored_lodged = stored_lodged_epcs.get(uprn)
+            # Stays None when neither source has an assessment; the prediction
+            # path handles this property.
+            epc: Optional[EpcPropertyData] = None
             lodged_epc_is_new = False
             if refetch_epc:
-                epc: Optional[EpcPropertyData] = None
                 epc, lodged_epc_is_new = _newer_lodged(
                     stored_lodged, epc_client.get_by_uprn(uprn)
                 )
@@ -659,10 +661,6 @@ def handler(
                     f"property={pid} using stored lodged EPC (refetch_epc=False)"
                 )
                 epc = stored_lodged
-            else:
-                epc = (
-                    None  # no stored lodged EPC; prediction path handles this property
-                )
             resolved_overrides = overrides_reader.overrides_for(pid)
             flag_fuel_mismatch(resolved_overrides)
             overrides = overlays_from(resolved_overrides)