EPC Ratings Explained

The bands

A is most efficient, G least.

Assessment

Assessors record insulation, heating, glazing and generation.

Why it matters

EPCs are required when selling or renting.

What the certificate shows

A Scottish EPC shows an energy efficiency rating and an environmental impact rating, both from A to G, together with estimated running costs and a list of recommended improvements. Ratings are based on standard assumptions about occupancy and heating patterns, so actual bills will differ.

Why older homes rate lower

Solid stone walls, single glazing and older heating systems all reduce the rating. Small changes such as loft insulation and heating controls can still improve the score, while solar PV and heat pumps are recognised in the calculation.

Scottish housing and heat loss

Scotland's homes include solid sandstone and granite tenements, rubble-built cottages, interwar cavity-wall houses, post-war no-fines concrete and timber-framed homes, and modern estates. Each loses heat differently. Solid stone walls need breathable approaches, often internal insulation with care around damp. Cavity walls can often be filled, though driving rain on exposed west-facing elevations needs to be considered. Timber kit homes usually benefit most from loft top-ups and draught-proofing.

Windows and doors are a large share of heat loss in older homes, especially original single-glazed sash and case windows. Conservation areas and listed buildings in places such as Edinburgh New Town, Stirling and many town centres have rules about what can be changed, so check with your council before ordering replacements.

How our survey works

Every project starts with a no-obligation survey. We look at your roof orientation, pitch, shading and condition, your fuse board and meter position, where a battery or inverter could go, and how your household uses electricity through the day and across the Scottish seasons. You then receive a written quote showing the equipment, the expected generation for your roof and the full price, so you can compare it fairly. We handle the network connection paperwork with your local distribution network operator, which is SP Energy Networks in central and southern Scotland and SSEN in the north, Highlands and islands. We install through MCS-certified partners. Solar panels and batteries are 0% VAT until March 2027. Finance available, subject to status.

Related guides

• Low-Cost EPC Improvements
• How Glazing Affects Your EPC
• Scotland Home Energy Guide