Understanding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
If you’ve been looking into Government energy grants or ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, you’ve probably come across the term Energy Performance Certificate, often shortened to EPC.
An EPC provides information about how energy efficient a property is and includes recommendations that may help improve its energy performance.
At Lifetime Savings Ltd, we help homeowners and landlords across the East of England understand EPC ratings, what they mean and why they are often an important part of Government-backed energy efficiency schemes.
What Is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate measures the energy efficiency of a property.
Each certificate gives the property a rating from:
- A – Most energy efficient
- B
- C
- D
- E
- F
- G – Least energy efficient
The certificate also includes recommendations that may help improve the property’s energy performance over time.
Why Is an EPC Important?
An EPC helps homeowners understand how efficiently their property uses energy.
It can also:
- Highlight areas where heat may be lost.
- Suggest improvements to increase energy efficiency.
- Provide an overall efficiency rating.
- Support decisions about future home improvements.
Current guidance for the Warm Homes Grant suggests that eligible homes will usually have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G, although eligibility depends on the Government criteria in place at the time of application.
How Can I Improve My EPC Rating?
Every home is different, but improvements that may help include:
- Loft insulation.
- Cavity wall insulation.
- Internal wall insulation.
- Heating system improvements.
- Solar panels, where appropriate.
- Other approved energy efficiency measures.
The best improvements depend on your property’s age, construction and current condition.
Do I Need a New EPC?
If your property does not have a current EPC, or your certificate has expired, you may need a new assessment.
An EPC is generally valid for 10 years, although you may choose to obtain a new one if significant energy efficiency improvements have been made to your home.
Could an EPC Affect My Eligibility for Government Support?
Yes.
Current guidance for the Warm Homes: Local Grant suggests that an eligible property will usually require an EPC rating of D, E, F or G.
Your EPC is just one part of the eligibility assessment, alongside factors such as household circumstances and the Government criteria in place at the time.
Why Choose Lifetime Savings Ltd?
Lifetime Savings Ltd helps homeowners and landlords across the East of England understand:
- Energy Performance Certificates.
- Home energy efficiency improvements.
- Government-backed energy schemes.
- Solar panels.
- Insulation.
- Heating upgrades.
Our aim is to explain technical information in a clear and practical way.
Areas We Cover
We provide guidance throughout:
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
- Essex
- Cambridgeshire
- Bedfordshire
- Hertfordshire
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EPC a legal requirement?
An EPC is required in certain situations, such as when selling or renting out a property. Specific legal requirements depend on the circumstances.
How long does an EPC last?
An Energy Performance Certificate is generally valid for 10 years.
Can I improve my EPC rating?
Many homes can improve their rating through suitable energy efficiency improvements.
Does a better EPC mean lower energy bills?
A more energy efficient home may use energy more effectively, although actual household energy costs depend on many factors, including usage and energy prices.
Learn More About Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Understanding your EPC is one of the first steps towards improving your home’s energy performance.
Whether you’re interested in Government backed energy efficiency schemes, Solar panels or insulation, Lifetime Savings Ltd is here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
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Last reviewed: October 2026
Government guidance, eligibility criteria and funding availability may change. Always refer to the latest information when considering an application.
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