Every Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives you two ratings:
Current EPC Rating — Your property’s existing energy efficiency.
Potential EPC Rating — The score achievable after recommended improvements.
But here’s the catch: most properties never reach their potential EPC rating because the assessment data uses assumed defaults or the upgrade advice isn’t tailored to your specific circumstances.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
What the current vs potential EPC rating gap really means
How to strategically improve your EPC rating without wasting money
Why even a 1-band improvement can impact property value, mortgages, and compliance
What is the EPC Rating Gap?
| Rating Type | What It Reflects |
|---|---|
| Current EPC Rating | Your property’s assessed energy efficiency today, based on available data |
| Potential EPC Rating | The best possible rating achievable with the recommended improvements |
A large gap between the two often indicates:
Incomplete or defaulted data (e.g., unknown wall insulation)
Overlooked minor improvements (e.g., heating controls, lighting efficiency)
Generic upgrade advice that may not reflect what’s realistically feasible
➡️ Check how EPCrate minimises defaults to reduce artificial rating gaps.
Why the EPC Rating Gap Matters in 2025
1. Mortgage & Refinance Leverage
Properties closer to a Band C or B rating unlock:
Lower interest rates on green mortgages
Better loan-to-value (LTV) offers
Access to eco-loan products from high-street banks
2. MEES Compliance for Landlords
If your property is below Band E (or soon Band C), improving your current EPC rating is a legal necessity for:
New tenancy agreements
Lease renewals
Default-lowered ratings can cost you thousands in retrofit mandates.
3. Sales Value & Buyer Appeal
Buyers are increasingly aware of EPC scores. Closing the current vs potential rating gap can:
Add 5–10% to property value
Increase marketability in eco-conscious segments
How to Strategically Improve Your Current EPC Rating (Without Over-Spending)
1. Fix EPC Data Defaults First
Many properties are marked down due to:
Unknown wall types or insulation
Unverified heating system controls
Before investing in physical upgrades, ensure your EPC assessment doesn’t penalise you with defaults.
➡️ Book a data-accuracy-driven EPC survey with EPCrate.
2. Target Cost-Efficient Upgrades with High EPC Impact
Focus on:
Draught-proofing and sealing gaps
Upgrading thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
Enhancing loft insulation thickness
These small investments can deliver significant rating uplifts.
3. Document Every Improvement
Ensure you retain:
Product specifications
Installation certificates
Photographic evidence
Assessors need this to credit the improvements accurately.
➡️ Contact EPCrate for advice on improvement documentation.
What If Your Property Can’t Reach Its Potential EPC Rating?
In some cases (e.g., listed buildings or complex flats above shops), the Potential Rating may be unrealistic due to:
Planning restrictions
Structural limitations
➡️ You may qualify for an EPC Exemption, protecting you from MEES penalties.
➡️ Learn about EPC exemptions for heritage and complex properties.
Conclusion: Closing the EPC Rating Gap is a Strategic Advantage
Don’t let defaulted data or generic upgrade advice limit your EPC rating.
A strategic approach—fixing data gaps, targeting cost-effective improvements, and documenting every upgrade—can:
Improve compliance
Enhance property value
Unlock better mortgage and financing options
➡️ Book an EPC Current vs Potential Rating Strategy Assessment
➡️ Speak to EPCrate for tailored EPC improvement advice
.
