The UK property market is undergoing a shift in how energy efficiency is valued and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are at the heart of this change. Whether you are preparing to sell your home or own a property that you let out, having an up-to-date EPC is more important than ever. Beyond simply being a legal requirement, an accurate and current EPC can help you market your property more effectively, reassure buyers and tenants, and even secure better financial deals. At Robsons, we have seen how a clear and favourable EPC can make a real difference in the current market. With the recent update to the EPC methodology, property owners should not delay in reviewing their certificates.
Energy Performance Certificates were introduced to provide a standard method of measuring and displaying a property’s energy efficiency. The rating ranges from A, the most energy-efficient, to G, which is the least efficient. An EPC is valid for ten years, however, the calculation method for these certificates has evolved since their introduction. Government-led improvements to the assessment method now mean that green technology, such as air source heat pumps, will be treated more favourably than before. This is an important development, as homeowners who have invested in low-carbon heating systems or other sustainable improvements may have found that their EPC score had decreased in the past. As air and ground source heat pumps use electricity, earlier EPC scoring systems sometimes penalised them more severely compared to traditional gas boilers. The updated calculation method corrects this and properly recognise the benefits of low-carbon, energy-efficient systems.
These changes to the EPC framework are not simply administrative. They reflect the wider push towards higher energy performance across the housing market. With the government’s net-zero carbon targets, pressure is mounting to ensure that residential properties contribute to lower energy consumption. This includes the proposed move to raise the minimum EPC rating for rental properties from an E to a C. Although the final timeline for these proposals is still subject to confirmation, landlords are being strongly encouraged to bring their properties up to standard as soon as possible. If you own a buy-to-let property, this means that checking your EPC now and acting on any recommendations will put you in a far stronger position.
For sellers, there is another clear incentive to refresh an EPC. Buyers today are increasingly aware of energy costs and many use the EPC rating as a quick reference point when comparing properties. A better rating can make your home more attractive and support its market value.
EPC’s last for ten years, however, as most homeowners upgrade their property during their ownership, the likelihood is that they have also significantly improved their property’s energy performance. Unless they have a current, up to date, EPC, prospective buyers will not be able to see those gains and the older EPC may no longer accurately reflect changes to the property. It is therefore advisable to arrange a new assessment before putting the property on the market.
The benefits of an improved EPC rating can also extend to financial products. Some mortgage lenders, for example, now offer ‘green mortgages’ with preferential rates for homes meeting higher energy efficiency standards. Similarly, if you are letting out your property, an improved EPC may reduce void periods, as tenants increasingly look for homes with lower energy bills and greener credentials. This trend is particularly noticeable among younger renters, who often place a premium on sustainable living.
One key reason why many property owners are reviewing their EPCs now is the significant changes in methodology. As mentioned, systems such as air and ground source heat pumps, solar panelsd modern insulation should all be scored more realistically under the updated calculation rules. Previously, many householders invested in green upgrades only to discover that their EPC rating had fallen or barely improved because of outdated modelling in the system. This put people off making climate-friendly changes, which was counterproductive. The new approach aims to address that, ensuring that properties with genuine sustainability improvements are fairly recognised.
Older properties in areas such as Pinner, Northwood, Rickmansworth, and the surrounding villages may face particular challenges. Many Victorian or Edwardian homes were built with little regard for modern energy performance and even post-war homes can struggle with insulation and single-glazed windows. Yet many of these properties have character and heritage value that attract buyers and tenants. Increasing their EPC score could mean investing in double/triple glazing, improved insulation, or heating upgrades, and understanding the cost-benefit of such works is essential. Having an accurate and updated EPC will give you a clear baseline to work from, showing precisely where improvements will have the most impact.
It is also worth noting that an EPC is not merely a compliance exercise. The report provides a list of recommended improvements that, if implemented, can make a property more comfortable, less expensive to run, and easier to sell or rent. With energy prices still a concern for many households, a home that promises lower running costs will inevitably stand out in the market. At Robsons, we speak to clients every day who are balancing the potential cost of energy upgrades against the value of their property. Having a precise and up-to-date EPC provides the information you need to make a rational decision, rather than relying on outdated advice or guessing.
While the government’s proposals for tighter minimum standards have made headlines, they are just one part of a bigger story. The wider push for sustainability, coupled with rising consumer expectations, means that energy efficiency is a selling point in its own right. A new EPC is a small investment that could pay back many times over, whether through smoother sales, faster lets, or even lower mortgage costs. It is also worth considering that, as technology continues to develop, more improvements will become available to homeowners and EPCs will likely continue to evolve to account for new materials and systems. Staying ahead of these changes will protect your investment and keep you competitive in a busy property market.
For those wondering about the practical steps to take, it is advisable to check the age of your current EPC certificate. If it is more than ten years old, it is automatically invalid. It will need to be renewed before you can legally sell or let the property. Even if it is still within date, if you have made changes to lighting, insulation, heating, glazing or installed renewable technology, it is well worth commissioning a fresh assessment. This will ensure you are presenting the most accurate and favourable rating possible. With updated assessment methods, the results may positively surprise you, especially if you have made improvements since the original EPC.
Ultimately, having a current EPC is about more than just ticking a regulatory box. It is a valuable marketing tool, a sign of future-proofing, and an essential component in maintaining your property’s competitiveness. At Robsons, we understand the importance of this for both landlords and homeowners considering a sale. Our experienced team is always happy to provide advice on the local market, the likely impact of energy upgrades, and how you can maximise the appeal of your home. If you would like to discuss your options further or arrange for a valuation, please do not hesitate to contact us today. We are here to help you navigate these changes confidently and ensure your property continues to perform strongly in an ever-evolving marketplace.
