What is a Good EPC Rating? Complete Guide 2026
Quick Answer: In 2026, a rating of C or above is considered good. Most UK properties aim for C (£700-1,000/year energy costs) to stay competitive, affordable, and legally compliant for rentals.
Understanding EPC Ratings
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is a measure of your property's energy efficiency, rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). But what actually counts as a "good" rating in 2026?
Search our database of 20M+ UK properties to instantly check any property's EPC rating, energy costs, and improvement recommendations.
The EPC Rating Scale Explained
A (92-100) - Exceptional energy efficiency. Typically new-build properties with advanced insulation, triple glazing, heat pumps, and solar panels. Annual energy costs: £200-400.
B (81-91) - Excellent efficiency. Well-insulated properties with modern heating systems. This is considered the gold standard for existing properties. Annual costs: £400-700.
C (69-80) - Good efficiency. The UK government's minimum target for rental properties by 2026. Most properties should aim for at least a C rating. Annual costs: £700-1,000.
D (55-68) - Average efficiency. The current UK average. Many older properties fall into this category. Annual costs: £1,000-1,400.
E (39-54) - Below average. Current minimum for rental properties. Properties often need upgrades. Annual costs: £1,400-1,800.
F (21-38) - Poor efficiency. Significant improvements needed. Cannot be legally rented without upgrades. Annual costs: £1,800-2,500.
G (1-20) - Very poor. Major energy efficiency problems. Cannot be legally rented. Annual costs: £2,500+.
What's Considered "Good" in 2026?
In 2026, a C rating or above is generally considered good for the following reasons:
- Legal compliance: C is the minimum for rental properties from 2026
- Affordability: Keeps annual energy costs under £1,000
- Environmental: Significantly reduces carbon footprint
- Property value: Higher EPC ratings command better prices
- Mortgage rates: Some lenders offer better rates for C+ properties
Why Your EPC Rating Matters
Financial Impact
The difference between a G-rated and C-rated property can be £1,500+ per year in energy costs. Over a typical mortgage term (25 years), that's £37,500+ in savings.
Want to see the exact energy costs for properties in your area? Search by postcode to compare EPC ratings and running costs across your neighborhood.
Property Value
Research shows properties with better EPC ratings sell for 5-10% more on average. For a £300,000 property, that's £15,000-£30,000 additional value.
Legal Requirements
Landlords must ensure rental properties meet minimum EPC standards (currently E, moving to C by 2026). Failure to comply can result in fines up to £5,000.
How to Check Your Property's EPC Rating
Use our free property search tool to instantly find the EPC rating for any UK property. Simply enter the postcode or address to see:
- Current EPC rating and score
- Potential rating with improvements
- Detailed cost breakdown
- Recommended improvements
- Historical EPC changes
- Comparison with similar properties in your area
Common Questions
Is a D rating acceptable?
While D is the current UK average, it's increasingly seen as below standard. Properties should aim for C or above to remain competitive and affordable to run.
How long does an EPC last?
EPCs are valid for 10 years, unless significant energy efficiency improvements are made, in which case a new assessment should be conducted.
Can I improve my EPC rating?
Yes! Most properties can improve by at least one band through improvements like insulation, modern boilers, double glazing, and LED lighting. See our detailed guide on how to improve your EPC rating with cost-effective methods ranked by ROI.
What's Next?
Understanding your property's EPC rating is the first step. Search your property now to check any UK property's energy performance, compare similar properties in your area, and see exactly what improvements would boost your rating.
📋 Book Your EPC Certificate Today
Get your property officially assessed by a qualified energy assessor. Fast, affordable EPCs from £60.
Check Your Property's EPC Rating
Search our database of 20M+ UK properties to see your current EPC rating, energy costs, and improvement recommendations.
Search Properties NowRelated Articles
Advertisement