
Why an EPC rating doesn’t tell you the whole story
Discover what really matters for your property’s energy efficiency.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a familiar tool for property owners, offering a quick snapshot of a home or rental property’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re renting out a flat or managing a property portfolio, an EPC is often the first step in understanding your building’s energy performance, with its simple A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) scale and basic improvement suggestions.
But here’s the thing – an EPCs rating just scratches the surface. If you want to make real, lasting improvements, there’s so much more to consider.
What is an EPC?
In the UK, EPCs are a legal must-have for anyone buying, selling, or renting a property. This government-backed system helps property owners understand how much energy their building consumes and where there’s room for improvement. Alongside the A to G rating, EPCs offer a few standard suggestions, like adding insulation or replacing an old boiler.
For landlords, staying on top of EPC ratings is especially relevant, as new regulations currently moving through Parliament could require rental properties to meet a Band C rating by 2030.

The benefits of an EPC
EPCs provide a straightforward look at your property’s energy performance (PDF), highlighting areas that could use a boost. This clarity can inspire action, nudging landlords and homeowners to cut energy use and make properties more efficient. For buyers and renters, EPC ratings offer a glimpse into future energy bills and running costs, helping them make informed choices.
The limitations of EPCs
While EPCs are useful, they’re not perfect. Here are four reasons why they don’t tell the whole story:
1. Generic advice
EPC recommendations are one-size-fits-all, often overlooking your property’s unique features. Imagine suggesting wall insulation in a cramped room or in a conservation area – hardly practical!
2. Limited practical detail
While EPCs focus on improving ratings, they don’t dive into real-world benefits like how much you might save on bills or how upgrades could boost comfort.
3. Outdated calculations
EPC scores can be misleading, especially for properties with modern tech like heat pumps, which may score poorly due to outdated energy pricing models.
4. Not designed for retrofitting
EPCs weren’t made for complex retrofits. They don’t consider how different upgrades interact or if they’re even feasible for your property.
A better approach: a whole house assessment
If you’re ready to move beyond the basics, a Whole House Plan offers a deeper, more personalised approach. Starting with a full retrofit assessment, it delivers tailored recommendations that go beyond ticking boxes – focusing on real-world impacts.
What makes it different?
- Tailored advice: Recommendations suited to your property’s specific needs.
- Real-world benefits: Clear insights into potential savings, carbon reduction, and comfort improvements.
- Practical considerations: Taking into account installation disruption, material suitability, and planning restrictions.
Future-proofing your property
For landlords, a whole house energy assessment isn’t just about compliance – it’s about smart investment. Get ahead of upcoming regulations, improve tenant satisfaction, lower energy bills, and safeguard against future energy price hikes.
“An energy efficiency assessment goes beyond just ticking boxes. It helps you get ready for future energy challenges, make your property more comfortable, and reduce running costs.” Geordie Stewart, Cosy Homes Oxfordshire
Future-proofing your property
EPCs are a good first step, but they don’t give the full picture. For property owners looking to make meaningful improvements, a more detailed and personalised approach is often needed. Whole-house energy assessments offer deeper insights into how to improve efficiency, reduce bills, and prepare your property for changing regulations.
Take the next step
EPC ratings are a great starting point, but true energy efficiency comes from tailored solutions.
- Landlords – Visit our landlord advice page to discover how to future-proof your properties, meet compliance standards, and attract tenants with energy-efficient upgrades.
- Homeowners – Ready to explore the benefits of a Whole House Plan? Find out more about how it can transform your home.

Make your property efficient, comfortable, and ready for the future. Call Natasha on 0330 223 2742 (Monday to Friday) or fill out our short contact form to get in touch.