The Telegraph has published an article warning of the problem created by the existing EPC system.  It can be seen here, and says:

Key Issues with EPC Ratings

• EPC assessments lack accuracy: Assessors with as little as three days of training are making significant errors that can affect property values and mortgage costs.
• Major inconsistencies: Identical properties can receive different EPC ratings, impacting house prices and landlord costs.
• Manipulation of ratings: Some assessors deliberately misreport EPCs to help properties qualify for grants or appear more attractive on the market.
• No effective oversight: Reviews of errors are conducted by staff working remotely, without physical property inspections.

Impact on Landlords and Homeowners

• Ed Miliband’s energy efficiency targets could force landlords to upgrade or sell properties if they fail to meet the minimum EPC C standard by 2030.
• Higher mortgage costs for homes with poor EPC ratings, as lenders like NatWest and Nationwide offer cheaper rates for more energy-efficient properties.
• Remortgaging issues: Landlords and homeowners are challenging incorrect EPC ratings, with some finding that assessments were based on the wrong property details.
• Potential crackdown on rogue assessors may drive up EPC certification costs, which currently range from £35 to £120.

Expert Opinions

• Dr Toby Gledhill (University of Salford):
  • Found widespread inaccuracies in EPC assessments.
  • Some assessors deliberately misrepresented data to qualify for government incentives.
  • Warns that an increase in enforcement could raise EPC costs.
• Industry Perspective:
  • Trade body Property Energy Professionals Association insists most assessors are qualified but acknowledges that the system needs improvement.
  • Tom Garrigan (Building Services Research & Information Association): The supply chain is flawed, making the EPC system ineffective.

Future of EPCs

• The government is consulting on reforms to improve EPC accuracy and auditing.
• Reform UK’s Nigel Farage has called for EPCs to be scrapped entirely, calling the system unfit for purpose.
• A more rigorous EPC system could mean higher assessment fees and stricter penalties for incorrect assessments.

Conclusion: Reform Needed to Prevent Housing Market Distortion

✔️ EPCs play a crucial role in housing policy, mortgages, and net-zero targets.
❌ However, the current system is unreliable, leading to incorrect ratings, financial penalties for homeowners, and market distortions.
🔍 Government reforms are needed to ensure accuracy, transparency, and fairer assessments for landlords and homeowners alike.