Property experts have declared that research shows energy efficiency is an important consideration when deciding to buy or rent a home.

In July 2026, the energy price cap rose by 13%, which, according to Rightmove, adds an average of £591 yearly to energy bills for properties with the lowest EPC rating of G. For D-rated homes, the rise is £284, compared to £205 for C-rated homes, and just £65 for an A-rated home. Over half of homes (52%) listed for sale have an EPC energy efficiency rating of D.

The CEO of Propertymark, Nathan Emerson, commented:

“As energy costs continue to rise, it’s understandable that buyers and tenants are placing greater emphasis on the running costs of a property and EPC ratings have become an increasingly visible part of that conversation.”

He said that in response to increases in energy bills, it is important to improve the energy efficiency of homes. The government’s target is for all homes to have at least a C EPC rating by 2030. This applies to both privately owned properties and rented accommodation.

For homes without a current EPC rating, homeowners and landlords can hire a local EPC assessor to conduct an EPC survey.

There are several ways to improve energy efficiency to lower bills, including better insulation, installing a more efficient boiler or heat pump, double glazing and adding solar panels. Grants are available to help with the cost of some energy efficiency upgrades from the Warm Homes and Boiler Upgrade schemes.