Older homes often have character, charm, and timeless appeal — but when it comes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), they frequently fall behind modern standards. The good news? With the right upgrades, even a Victorian terrace or a 1970s semi-detached home can achieve energy performance comparable to new-build properties.
If you want to understand your current rating or plan upgrades, start here:
👉 Book Your EPC Assessment
Why Older Homes Struggle With EPC Ratings
Properties built before 1990 were not designed with insulation, airtightness, or renewable technologies in mind. Common weaknesses include:
Solid walls with poor thermal resistance
Older boilers with low efficiency
Single glazing or early double glazing
Cold floors and uninsulated roof spaces
Poor heating controls
Energy-wasting lighting
However, with smart optimisation, older homes can dramatically improve performance — often without major structural work.
For details on how EPCs are assessed:
👉 EPC Services – EPC Assessors London
1. Insulation: The Fastest Way to Transform an Older Home
Loft & Roof Insulation
One of the most impactful upgrades. Topping up insulation to 270mm can instantly push EPC scores up.
Wall Insulation
Depending on construction:
Cavity walls → easy to insulate
Solid walls → internal or external insulation options
Even partial insulation can significantly reduce heat loss.
2. Heating System Improvements
Swapping old boilers for a modern condensing boiler or heat pump can dramatically change EPC outcomes.
Consider:
High-efficiency combi boilers
Smart thermostats
Programmable TRVs
Zoned heating systems
Small upgrades to controls alone can lift a property one EPC band.
3. Window & Door Enhancements
You don’t always need a full window replacement.
Cost-effective alternatives include:
Secondary glazing
Draught-proofing gaps
Upgrading seals and frames
Installing insulated doors
These work especially well for heritage homes where full replacements are restricted.
4. Renewable Energy Options for Older Homes
You can bring older homes closer to new-build standards with:
Solar PV panels
Solar water heating
Hybrid heat pump systems
Even modest renewable installations boost EPC scores and reduce running costs.
5. Floor Insulation & Air Tightness
Older homes often leak heat through floors, gaps, and unused fireplaces.
Effective enhancements include:
Underfloor insulation
Blocking unused chimneys
Sealing air gaps
Fitting heavy curtains or thermal blinds
These subtle improvements can add up to major savings.
6. LED Lighting: A Quick, Painless Upgrade
Replacing all bulbs with LEDs is one of the simplest and cheapest EPC improvements — and assessors immediately recognise the efficiency gains.
7. Documentation Matters (More Than Most Homeowners Realise)
Your EPC rating depends not only on upgrades but also on proof:
Loft insulation certificates
Boiler installation paperwork
Window FENSA certificates
Solar PV documentation
Always present these during your assessment.
For what assessors look for, see:
👉 About Us – EPCrate
8. Turning Older Homes Into New-Build Performers
With the right combination of:
Insulation upgrades
Heating optimisation
Renewable technologies
Airtightness improvements
Smart energy controls
Older homes can reach Band C or even Band B, rivaling new-build performance while maintaining their unique architectural character.
Start Your EPC Upgrade Journey Today
The best first step is a professional assessment that highlights your home’s energy strengths and weaknesses.
Start now:
👉 Book Your EPC Assessment
Check the cost:
👉 EPC Pricing
Need help or expert guidance?
👉 Contact EPCrate
Email :info@epcrate.co.uk
Phone:020 34884142
