The proportion of energy-efficient properties changing hands in England has reached a new high, with 61.3% of homes sold over the past year achieving a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C, according to analysis from Benham and Reeves.

The findings, based on EPC data linked to property transactions from Q2 2024 to Q1 2025, show an increase of 1.5% in the share of homes with a rating of C or above compared to the previous four quarters.

London recorded the highest proportion of energy-efficient sales, with 64.3% of homes sold meeting the EPC C threshold. Although the capital posted a rise of just 0.6% year-on-year – the joint lowest increase alongside the South East – it remains the leading region for overall energy performance among sold properties.

The West Midlands saw the most significant annual improvement, up 3.3% to 58.5%. Other areas showing notable year-on-year growth included the East Midlands, up 2.9%, and the East of England, which rose by 2.3%.

Yorkshire and The Humber and the North West also saw improvements, up by 1.8% and 1.7% respectively. However, Yorkshire and the Humber remains the lowest-ranking region overall, with just 57.1% of sold properties meeting the minimum EPC C standard.

Commenting on the findings, Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, said: “The growing number of energy-efficient homes changing hands is a positive sign for both buyers and the environment. 

“London’s continued leadership highlights the capital’s strength in offering greener housing options, while the significant gains in regions like the West Midlands demonstrate a promising trend nationwide.

“Improving energy efficiency is critical as we move towards a more sustainable housing market and so it’s great to see that the hard work is being done to boost the quality of housing stock in order to help meet these sustainability targets.”