EPC Rating Explained: What A–G Means (UK, 2026)

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is the UK government's modelled energy-performance rating for a home. Bands run from A (highest) to G (lowest). It is a model, not a meter: the letter comes from standard assessment assumptions, not from your actual bills.

A–G bands and SAP scores

Assessors use the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) or reduced SAP (RdSAP) to produce an energy-efficiency score, then map that score onto the A–G band shown on the certificate. Look up the lodged certificate on GOV.UK Find an energy certificate. Band thresholds below follow the ONS energy-efficiency bands (A is 92+, not capped at 100). Scores typically range from 1 to 100. SAP/RdSAP is the assessment method — see GOV.UK SAP guidance.

Source: ONS Energy efficiency of housing in England and Wales: 2024 (band A 92+, B 81–91, C 69–80, D 55–68, E 39–54, F 21–38, G 1–20). Scores typically range from 1 to 100; A is 92 and above, not capped at 100. Assessment method: GOV.UK SAP guidance. The certificate also reports an environmental-impact rating; this page explains the A–G energy-efficiency band only.

Modelled rating vs your bills

The cost figures printed on an EPC are modelled for a standard household, occupancy pattern and fuel-price assumptions at the assessment date. They are not a promise of your next 12 months' bills. Two homes with the same band can pay different amounts if occupancy, thermostat settings, tariff, or heating-system commissioning differ.

We do not publish unsupported “average 3-bed” running-cost tables by band. Use the certificate as a structured checklist of fabric, heating, hot water and lighting facts, then compare those facts with meter readings and quotes. For bill-focused next steps see reducing heating bills. For sequenced upgrades see how to improve an EPC rating. Scheme context lives on UK energy grants 2026.

What the certificate does not tell you

• It is static: valid for 10 years in England and Wales. Insulation or a heat pump you already installed does not change the register until a new assessment is lodged.
• Assumed behaviour: SAP uses standard occupancy hours and temperatures, not how you actually live in the home.
• Commissioning blind spots: boiler or heat-pump flow temperature, radiator balancing and controls may not match the model.
• Recommendations are a modelled buy-list: listed measures still need suitability, moisture, ventilation, tenure and quote checks. Do not treat them as Evolving Home's advice.

Why the rating still matters

Selling

An EPC is required when selling most homes. Buyers may look at the band; do not assume a fixed price uplift from a higher letter.

Letting and MEES

For covered domestic private-rented homes in England and Wales, current MEES is generally EPC E or better, unless a valid exemption applies. See GOV.UK domestic PRS MEES landlord guidance. A higher PRS standard from 1 October 2030 (often discussed as EPC C or equivalent) is government policy awaiting implementing legislation — not today's letting law. Confirm on the 2025 PRS energy-performance government response. Planning context: UK rental energy standards. Band C sequencing for landlords stays on how to get a rental property to EPC C— this page does not repeat that depth.

Mortgages

Some lenders offer products linked to energy performance. Terms change by lender; a higher band is not a guaranteed rate.

Australia: NatHERS is a cousin, not a twin

Australia's official Home Energy Rating (NatHERS) uses thermal stars 0–10 plus a separate Whole of Home score out of 100. It is a fair analogy to a UK EPC, not a drop-in legal substitute and not a nationwide sale/let MEES twin. Read NatHERS rating explained.

Frequently Asked Questions