Survey finds 77% of UK homeowners expect EPC rating to influence future purchases

More than three-quarters of UK homeowners say an Energy Performance Certificate rating will be an important consideration when purchasing a property in the future. The survey also found that 78% anticipate buyers will pay a premium for energy-efficient homes.

Nearly a third of respondents aged 25 to 34 expect significantly higher prices for efficient homes, compared with 5% of those over 55. Sixty-nine percent of homeowners said EPC ratings and energy efficiency now matter more to them than when they bought their current residence.

Awareness and improvements Despite these views, 54% of those surveyed did not know their current property’s energy efficiency rating. The poll was conducted in May by Censuswide. Among homeowners who made energy-efficiency upgrades in the past decade, the most common steps were installing solar panels, adding insulation, and replacing windows and doors.

Seventy-three percent reported lower energy bills after the work, and 77% said they were more likely to stay in their home longer.

Barriers and price effects Cost was the main reason cited by those who had not made improvements. In England, owner-occupied homes rated A or B sold for a 1.6% premium over D-rated homes where EPC data were available. Buyers are increasingly seeking at least an EPC C rating, which typically indicates the property is insulated, has a modern boiler, and features double glazing, according to the survey findings.