New analysis from Rightmove estimates that at least 18 million homes in the UK have an EPC rating of D or below, accounting for over half (55%) of all UK housing stock.
The study highlights the significant financial impact of energy efficiency, revealing that the average energy bill for a three-bedroom house with an EPC rating of F is £4,431 per year, compared to £1,669 for a house with an EPC rating of C.
A Rightmove study of over 14,000 people shows that the biggest motivator for making green changes to a home is reducing energy bills. The study found that 87% of renters and 83% of homeowners believe more action is needed to help make homes greener.
Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s property expert, said: “While it’s a start to see some green support proposed in the party manifestos, there’s a big job to be done to address the widescale issue that at least 18 million UK homes need to be improved.
“Many homeowners and landlords need urgent access to schemes that enable them to make these improvements, which could help with huge savings on energy bills. Each home requires different improvements and the upfront costs are a huge barrier to change. Without more help, many homeowners and tenants will continue to live in high-carbon emitting homes with high energy costs.”
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, added: “Propertymark have long supported initiatives and practical measures to help enhance energy efficiency across the UK. We would be keen to see any incoming government construct a wide-ranging package of support to assist with upgrades at the first opportunity.
“It’s vital there is a diverse approach of funding, grants, and targeted schemes based on age, condition, and size and that there is robust infrastructure in place to deliver on such ambitions.”
