As energy costs continue to soar, there’s more focus than ever on how energy-efficient our homes are. This has brought the once overlooked Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating into the spotlight for buyers, particularly in the competitive London property market. But how much does a low EPC score really matter, especially when it comes to older, more characterful homes?

Alicia Lindsay from Savills St. John’s Wood has seen the conversation around energy efficiency grow. “Although eco credentials aren’t always at the fore of a buyer’s wish list, there has been a notable shift in how buyers approach their next purchase, with more emphasis placed on the sustainability credentials that a property has to offer,” she says. In other words, while sustainability might not be the first thing buyers think of, they’re definitely starting to take it more seriously.

Buyers are asking more questions about EPC ratings and insulation, especially as these factors can impact day-to-day living costs. However, Alicia is quick to add that “a lower rate won’t necessarily deter a buyer from a property, particularly if it ticks a lot of boxes in terms of the lifestyle it offers.” In London, especially in desirable areas like St. John’s Wood, lifestyle still plays a key role. If a property offers the right location, space, and feel, a lower EPC rating might not matter as much.

This is particularly true when it comes to the Capital’s vast stock of period properties. As Chris Cooper at Benham & Reeves, explains, “In Hampstead, we have a lot of older properties that fall into the lower end of the EPC metric system. These are typically period properties with single glazed sash windows and brick walls, so there is not a lot of scope for improving their EPC rating.” London’s older homes are undeniably charming but, as Chris suggests, they weren’t built with energy efficiency in mind. Trying to boost the EPC rating of a Victorian terrace or a Georgian townhouse can be an uphill battle. And one that may not pay dividends – if you are trying to sell such a home, it’s worth noting that, these properties often attract buyers who are more interested in their character and architectural heritage than their eco credentials.

Added to this, the system itself isn’t always clear-cut. Chris notes that: “The scores – which can differ depending on who performs the assessment – measure how much it costs to run a home, not how efficient it is, or how little impact it has on the environment.” This means the rating doesn’t always give the full picture, leaving some buyers sceptical about its accuracy. So, where does this leave us? In the London property market, EPC ratings are certainly becoming more important, particularly as people look to manage rising living costs. But at the same time, a home’s overall appeal – whether that’s its location, design, or lifestyle offering – still holds more weight for most buyers. While a higher EPC rating may add value, a lower one isn’t likely to stop a sale in its tracks, especially for those seeking a home with charm, character, and long-term potential.