Rising energy bills and the growing demand for sustainable living mean a good EPC rating is now more important than ever.
Raising your property’s EPC rating isn’t just about ticking boxes for compliance or keeping up with the latest property trends; it’s a smart strategy to increase its value and appeal to potential tenants.
Despite the government abandoning its plans to force landlords into upgrading their energy efficiency ratings, making a few improvements now could translate into significant financial gains.
Here, we have 11 tried-and-tested, practical tips tailored to different property needs and budgets.
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Order EPC NowEnergy-efficient lighting
Lighting does more than just brighten up spaces; it plays an important role in making your property more energy-efficient and trimming those hefty energy bills for your tenants.
LED bulbs: Swapping out traditional bulbs with LED alternatives can significantly slash energy usage, particularly in larger properties that require more lighting on those short, gloomy winter days.
Natural lighting: Taking advantage of natural light can be challenging in the UK, but there are ways to make the most of it, even in small measures. Best practices range from using light, reflective paint on walls and ceilings to leaving curtains or blinds open during daylight hours.
Motion sensors: By ensuring lights are only ‘on’ when necessary, motion sensors can significantly cut down on wasted energy. It’s best to install them in areas where they are most useful but least intrusive, for example, in common spaces like hallways, corridors, and outdoor entryways rather than in bedrooms or bathrooms.
Wall insulation and double glazing
The better your property is at retaining heat, the less energy it will use to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors – a quality that greatly enhances its appeal.
Wall and loft insulation: Think of insulation as your property’s superhero suit. Good loft and cavity wall insulation acts like a powerful shield preventing heat from escaping your home during the winter but also keeping it out during the summer.
Double glazing: Swapping out old single-glazed windows for double or even triple-glazed ones can make a big difference in heat retention, lowering your property’s energy consumption.
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Simple but cost-effective measures
Small changes, like installing thermostatic radiator valves, can pack a big punch when it comes to energy efficiency. Every little bit counts, even if it seems like a no-brainer.
Radiator upgrades: Radiator reflectors help reduce heat loss by bouncing warmth back into rooms and preventing it from escaping through the walls. Plus, thermostatic radiator valves offer precise temperature control in each room, so you don’t waste heat where it’s not needed.
Draught-proofing: Simply sealing gaps around windows and doors can put a stop to heat loss, ensuring rooms stay comfortably warm without straining your heating system.
Modern heating systems: Upgrading to newer boilers and heating systems not only heats your property more efficiently but is also a rather simple way to boost its EPC rating.
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Add Listing TodayRenewable energy sources
Adopting renewable energy sources may seem like a big move. Still, with the proper drive and resources, it won’t just contribute to a more sustainable future but also significantly boost your property’s value.
Solar panels: By using solar energy to power your property’s electrical systems, you can reduce your reliance on conventional energy sources. This decrease in energy consumption is reflected positively in your EPC rating.
Smart home technology: Smart thermostats, lighting controls, and energy monitoring systems can help you identify areas where energy is being wasted and make adjustments accordingly.
Ground source heat pumps: GSHPs are known for their high efficiency, as they typically provide around three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. The government also recently announced heat pump grants in England and Wales rising to £7,500 from October 2023, as part of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).
