EPC Rating E Explained
Below average efficiency (39-54)
An EPC rating of E indicates below-average energy efficiency. E-rated homes have higher energy costs at around £2,300 per year and produce more carbon emissions than typical UK properties. About 15% of UK properties have an E rating. While currently legal to rent, E is the minimum acceptable standard under MEES regulations.
What Does an EPC Rating E Mean?
An E-rated property has below-average energy efficiency with significant heat loss and older or less efficient heating systems. These homes cost more to heat and maintain comfortable temperatures, particularly in winter.
E is currently the minimum legal rating for rental properties under MEES. Properties rated below E (F or G) cannot be legally rented without an exemption. E-rated properties face future pressure as the minimum standard is expected to rise to C.
Typical Properties with Rating E
Older gas boiler (often non-condensing)
Limited or no cavity wall insulation
Insufficient loft insulation
Single glazing or old double glazing
Poor draught-proofing
Solid walls without insulation
Energy Costs for E-Rated Properties
Properties with an EPC rating of E typically cost around £2300 per year to heat and power, based on current UK energy prices.
How to Improve from Rating E
E-rated properties should be prioritised for improvement. These upgrades can significantly reduce bills and improve comfort:
Cavity wall insulation
Major improvement for heat retention
Loft insulation
Top up or install to 270mm
Replace boiler
Modern condensing boiler dramatically improves efficiency
Double glazing
Replace single glazing throughout
Can I Rent a Property with Rating E?
Minimum legal standard for rental
E is currently the lowest rating allowed for rental properties. Must improve to C by 2030 under proposed rules.
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), landlords in England and Wales cannot grant new tenancies for properties rated F or G unless they have a valid exemption. The government has proposed increasing this minimum to C by 2030.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a property with an E rating?
Yes, E is currently the minimum legal standard for rental properties under MEES. However, this is expected to increase to C by 2030.
How much more expensive is an E-rated home?
E-rated homes typically cost £500-£600 more per year to run than the average D-rated property, and around £900 more than a C-rated home.
Is it worth buying an E-rated property?
E-rated properties can be good value if you factor in improvement costs. Budget £3,000-£10,000 for upgrades to reach a C rating.
EPC Rating Scale
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