South London terraced houses
EPC RatingsEnergy EfficiencyProperty

EPC Ratings Explained: From A to G

·5 min read

What do the EPC energy efficiency bands actually mean? Here's a clear breakdown of each rating, typical properties in each band, and what it means for running costs.

EPC ratings run from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G the least. Each band corresponds to a range of energy efficiency scores and is colour-coded on the certificate, with green for the best ratings, red for the worst.

Band A (92–100): Highly efficient

New builds and properties with heat pumps, solar panels, and high levels of insulation. Very low energy bills. Rare in older urban areas like South London.

Band B (81–91): Very efficient

Modern or recently retrofitted properties. Good insulation, modern boiler, and often some renewable energy generation. Increasingly common in newer developments.

Band C (69–80): Good

The target for most retrofit improvements. Properties with cavity wall insulation, double glazing, and an efficient gas boiler typically reach this band. The government's proposed future rental standard.

Band D (55–68): Average

The most common rating in the UK. Properties with reasonable insulation but an older boiler or single glazing may fall here. Cost-effective improvements can usually achieve a C.

Band E (39–54): Below average

The current minimum for private rentals. Solid wall properties with limited insulation and older heating systems are typical here. MEES compliance threshold for landlords.

Bands F and G (1–38): Poor

Older properties with minimal insulation, inefficient heating, and single glazing. Cannot be legally rented without improvement or a registered exemption. High energy bills likely.

Need an EPC in South London?

ABBE-accredited assessments with fast turnaround across Lambeth, Wandsworth, and Southwark.

Book Now

Related Articles

We Cover All of South London

ABBE-accredited EPC assessments across Lambeth, Wandsworth, and Southwark.