Improving your home’s energy efficiency | A Guide to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

Helping you understand your home’s energy efficiency — and how to improve it. 

What is an EPC? 

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient your home is — and how it could be improved. 

Each property is given a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The higher your rating, the more energy efficient your home is likely to be — which can mean lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions. 

Your EPC also includes: 

• Estimated energy costs for heating, lighting and hot water 
• A list of recommended improvements 
• Potential savings if those improvements are made 
• Your home’s potential rating after upgrades 
• EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date they’re issued. 

When do you need an EPC? 

You’ll need a valid EPC if you’re: 

• Selling your home 
• Renting out a property 
• Building a new property 

If you're selling or letting, you must have an EPC before marketing your property, and the rating must be included in your listing. 

You can find or check your EPC on the official government register.

 

Why EPCs matter 

EPCs are becoming increasingly important when buying, selling or improving a home. 

They help you: 

• Compare energy efficiency between properties 
• Understand potential running costs 
• Identify improvements that could make your home warmer and cheaper to run 
• Support a more sustainable lifestyle 
• For many buyers, energy efficiency is now a key factor when choosing a home.

 

Current EPC rules and future changes 

Energy efficiency standards are evolving, so it’s helpful to understand the current landscape. 

• Rental properties must currently have a minimum EPC rating of E (unless a valid exemption applies) 
• The government has confirmed plans to raise this to EPC C by 2030 for privately rented homes, subject to legislation 
• There is increasing focus on improving the energy efficiency of UK housing overall 

This means improving your EPC rating now could help future-proof your home. 

 

How to improve your EPC rating 

Improving your EPC doesn’t always require major renovation — small changes can make a difference. 

Lower-cost improvements 

• Switching to LED light bulbs 
• Adding or upgrading loft insulation 
• Insulating your hot water cylinder 
• Draught-proofing doors and windows 

Higher-impact upgrades 

• Installing double or triple glazing 
• Improving wall insulation (cavity or solid wall) 
• Upgrading to a more efficient boiler or heating system such as air source heat pump  
• Adding renewable energy such as solar panels 

Your EPC will outline which improvements are most suitable for your home, along with estimated costs and savings.

 

Simple energy-saving tips for everyday living 

Even if you’re not ready to make bigger changes, small everyday actions can still help reduce energy use and save money: 

• Turn off lights when you’re not using them 
• Avoid leaving appliances on standby 
• Wash clothes at lower temperatures 
• Use full loads in your washing machine or dishwasher 
• Keep your heating between 18°C and 21°C for comfort and efficiency 
• Close curtains at night to keep heat in (but avoid covering radiators) 

 

Are some homes exempt from EPCs? 

Most properties require an EPC, but there are some exceptions. 

For example: 

• Certain listed buildings, where energy improvements would significantly alter their character 
• Some temporary or seasonal buildings

Exemptions are limited and often need to be officially registered, so it’s worth checking the latest guidance for your situation. 

 

How to get an EPC 

To get an EPC, you’ll need to use a qualified domestic energy assessor, who will visit your home and carry out an assessment. 

They’ll look at factors such as: 

• Insulation 
• Heating systems 
• Windows and construction 

Once complete, your EPC will be added to the national register. 

 

Thinking about improving your home? 

Making energy-efficient improvements can: 

• Reduce your energy bills 
• Make your home more comfortable 
• Increase your property’s appeal and value 
• Support a lower-carbon future 

If you're planning improvements, it’s worth exploring what support or financing options may be available to you. 

 

Useful resources 

Government EPC register 

Energy Saving Trust — expert advice on improving home energy efficiency 

 

Final thoughts 

EPCs are no longer just a formality — they’re becoming a key part of how we buy, sell and live in our homes. 

By understanding your EPC and taking steps to improve it, you can create a home that’s more efficient, more comfortable and better for the environment.

 

(Information sourced from gov.uk and Energy Saving Trust, May 2026)