EPC rating D
SAP score 55–68. The most common band in England & Wales. One step short of the 2030 standard.
What band D means
Band D covers SAP scores from 55 to 68. Most of these homes have decent heating but lose heat through walls, windows or the roof faster than a band C home does.
Typical properties
Pre-1990s houses with partial insulation — cavity walls that were never filled, a thin loft, or original windows.
Quotes for the work
Heating is usually the single biggest item on a band D property. Insulation comes first, but a quote tells you what the heating step would cost.
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Getting from band D to band C
Worked from a SAP score of 62, in the middle of band D, for an average sized property with nothing done yet. Cheapest measures first.
| Measure | Cost | Score after |
|---|---|---|
| Hot water cylinder insulation | £20–£60 | 64 |
| Loft insulation to 270 mm | £100–£350 | 68 |
| Low energy lighting throughout | £25–£90 | 69 |
About £145 to £500 in total. Use the upgrade cost calculator for your own score.
Common questions
Can I sell a property with an EPC rating of D?
Yes. There is no minimum band for selling in England & Wales — you only need a valid certificate before the property is marketed.
Can I let a property with an EPC rating of D?
Yes, today. From 1 October 2030 the minimum for a private rented home rises to band C.
How do I improve the rating?
Insulation first, then heating and controls, then generation. Cheap measures such as loft insulation and cylinder insulation buy SAP points for a fraction of the cost of new windows or a heat pump.