The Warm Homes Local Grant requires an EPC rating of D, E, F or G. If your property is currently rated C — or close to it — a targeted improvement could unlock up to £30,000 of funded upgrades.
See our solar panel installation service for funded options.
How EPC ratings work
An EPC rates your home's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It reflects estimated energy cost based on standard occupancy assumptions — not what you actually spend. The WH:LG requires EPC D, E, F or G. Properties rated C or above don't qualify.
Check your current EPC for free
Every property assessed in the last 10 years is on the public register at epcregister.com. Enter your postcode, select your property and you'll see your rating, date of assessment and recommended improvements. If your EPC is more than 10 years old, or significant work has been done since, you'll need a new certificate (typically £80–£120).
What if my EPC is C — can I still benefit?
If your EPC is C or above, you don't qualify for the WH:LG — but you do qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (£7,500 toward a heat pump, rising to £9,000 for oil/LPG homes from July 2026, no EPC condition). Private solar is available at 0% VAT regardless of EPC.
What improvements raise your EPC rating the most?
| Improvement | Typical EPC uplift | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solid wall insulation (internal or external) | 10–20 points | Biggest single uplift for solid-walled properties |
| Cavity wall insulation | 5–15 points | Fast, low-disruption, funded under WH:LG |
| Loft insulation (none to 270mm) | 5–15 points | Often the simplest improvement for older homes |
| Air source heat pump (replacing gas boiler) | 5–10 points | Improves rating + qualifies for BUS grant |
| Solar PV panels | 3–8 points | Contributes to rating — more significant with battery |
| New double or triple glazing | 3–7 points | Can be included in WH:LG package |
| Hot water cylinder insulation | 1–3 points | Low cost, can push borderline cases over threshold |
Not sure if you qualify?
We'll check your EPC and eligibility for free.
If your EPC is D — you already qualify
EPC D is within the qualifying range for the WH:LG. Many homeowners assume they need to be E, F or G, but D is included. If your EPC is D and your household income is at or below £36,000, you should apply now.
Recent work that should have improved your EPC
EPC assessors use the SAP methodology and require documented evidence. Before your next assessment, gather:
- Installation certificates for recent heating work
- Evidence of insulation installation (MCS or CIGA certificates)
- Window specification documents
Alliant Energy provides full MCS documentation for all installations — useful for both warranty claims and future EPC assessments.
Can you get an EPC assessment through the WHP?
Often yes. A new EPC assessment is included as part of the WH:LG application. If your existing EPC is out of date or you don't have one, Cosy Homes in Lancashire arranges an assessment as part of your survey visit.
Frequently asked questions
What EPC rating do I need to qualify for the Warm Homes Plan?
EPC D, E, F or G. Properties rated C or above don't qualify for the Warm Homes Local Grant. However, they can still access the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (no EPC condition).
What's the quickest way to improve an EPC rating?
Loft insulation and cavity wall insulation typically offer the best improvement per £ spent. Solid wall insulation has the biggest impact but is more expensive. All three are eligible for funding under the WH:LG.
How much does an EPC assessment cost?
Typically £80–£120. If you apply through the Warm Homes Local Grant, an EPC assessment is usually arranged as part of the survey.
Will solar panels improve my EPC rating?
Yes, though the improvement depends on system size and your property's baseline. A typical solar installation might add 3–8 points to your SAP score.
Related Warm Homes Plan guides
