Most homeowners and landlords assume their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating remains stable once assessed. However, unexpected factors can reduce your EPC score quickly, impacting energy efficiency, property value, and compliance.

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1. Changes in Property Heating Systems

  • Installing a new boiler or heating system incorrectly

  • Replacing a high-efficiency system with an older model

  • Turning off or removing smart heating controls

Impact: Can cause immediate drops in EPC ratings by increasing energy usage and inefficiency.

2. Poor Maintenance of Insulation and Seals

  • Loft insulation becomes compressed or damaged

  • Wall or floor insulation is removed or disturbed

  • Gaps around windows, doors, or floorboards open up over time

Impact: Heat loss increases, lowering EPC scores and comfort.

3. Renovations Without Energy Consideration

  • Adding extensions, loft conversions, or new rooms without proper insulation

  • Installing large windows or glazed areas without energy-efficient glazing

  • Changing roofing or flooring materials that reduce thermal efficiency

Impact: Can drastically affect your EPC rating, even if aesthetically appealing.

4. Appliance and Lighting Changes

  • Replacing energy-efficient appliances with older models

  • Switching from LED lighting back to incandescent bulbs

  • Increased reliance on high-energy appliances

Impact: Unexpectedly increases household energy consumption, affecting EPC assessment.

5. Environmental or Regulatory Updates

  • EPC calculation methodologies may be updated by government standards

  • Changes in default energy usage assumptions

  • Updated carbon emission factors for electricity or gas

Impact: Can reduce EPC scores even without physical changes to the property.

6. Seasonal or Usage Variations

  • Higher energy use during extreme weather can highlight inefficiencies

  • Unused or under-heated rooms can affect energy performance assumptions

  • Short-term energy spikes in calculations may influence assessment

Impact: Unexpectedly highlights energy inefficiencies that lower EPC ratings.

How to Prevent EPC Drops

  • Maintain insulation, heating systems, and seals regularly

  • Use energy-efficient appliances and lighting consistently

  • Incorporate smart thermostats and controls

  • Schedule periodic EPC assessments for monitoring

For professional guidance, see our Services – EPC Assessors London page.

Professional EPC Assessment

A certified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) can:

  • Identify potential factors that may lower your EPC

  • Recommend preventive measures to maintain high ratings

  • Provide accurate documentation for compliance and property sales

Book a professional assessment via our Booking Page.

Contact Us for EPC Advice

Want to protect your EPC rating from unexpected drops?
Reach out via our Contact Page for expert support and personalised recommendations.

Email :info@epcrate.co.uk

Phone:020 34884142