Improving your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating doesn’t have to involve costly renovations. Many homeowners and landlords can achieve significant energy efficiency improvements with affordable upgrades that not only increase EPC points but also reduce energy bills, effectively paying for themselves over time.
Our expert EPC Assessors in London often identify these practical, cost-effective measures during inspections:
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1. LED Lighting: Small Investment, Immediate Returns
Lighting accounts for a measurable portion of a home’s energy usage. Upgrading all fixed lighting to LED or low-energy bulbs is one of the quickest and cheapest ways to improve EPC points.
Benefits:
Immediate reduction in electricity usage
Enhances EPC rating
Low upfront cost with long-lasting bulbs
Even though the upgrade is simple, it is frequently overlooked by homeowners, costing potential EPC points.
2. Heating Controls: Efficient Heating Without Replacing Boilers
Properly configured heating systems can significantly improve EPC ratings, often without replacing the boiler.
Key upgrades include:
Programmable room thermostats
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)
Zoned heating for different areas of the home
Smart thermostats integrated with heating schedules
Benefits:
Reduces unnecessary energy use
Enhances comfort
Often results in noticeable EPC improvements
👉 Learn more about heating system assessments:
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3. Draught-Proofing: Low-Cost Heat Retention
Sealing gaps around doors, windows, floors, and loft hatches is inexpensive yet effective.
Benefits:
Prevents heat loss and reduces energy consumption
Improves fabric efficiency points in EPC assessments
Quick installation, often DIY-friendly
Even small adjustments can prevent significant energy loss and help move your EPC rating up a band.
4. Loft and Hot Water Cylinder Insulation
Loft insulation and cylinder jackets are highly cost-effective upgrades:
Top up loft insulation to recommended depths (270–300mm)
Add insulation jackets to hot water cylinders and exposed pipes
Benefits:
Reduces heating demand
Minimises energy bills
Recognised in EPC scoring for measurable points
These are classic examples of EPC upgrades that pay for themselves within a few years through energy savings.
5. Minor Window Improvements
Replacing all windows can be expensive, but targeted improvements can be cost-effective:
Draught-proofing existing frames
Adding secondary glazing where possible
Repairing damaged seals
Benefits:
Improves thermal retention
Enhances EPC scores without full replacements
6. Behavioural Adjustments Complement Upgrades
Even without major renovations, energy-conscious habits amplify the benefits of physical upgrades:
Maintain thermostat at recommended temperatures
Only heat occupied rooms
Schedule regular servicing of boilers and heating systems
These adjustments ensure that your improvements are reflected in your EPC rating.
7. Documentation: Ensuring Credit for Upgrades
Proper documentation ensures assessors can verify and credit improvements:
Installation certificates for boilers, insulation, and renewable systems
Invoices and photos of upgrades
Manufacturer specifications
Without evidence, assessors may default to conservative assumptions, reducing EPC points.
👉 Learn more about EPC documentation:
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8. Benefits of Cost-Effective EPC Upgrades
Investing in small, targeted upgrades provides multiple advantages:
Financial savings: Reduced energy bills
Improved EPC scores: Helps meet compliance requirements
Increased property value: Energy-efficient homes attract buyers and tenants
Sustainability: Lower carbon footprint without expensive retrofits
These upgrades are a win-win, improving both efficiency and long-term affordability.
9. When to Schedule a Re-Assessment
After implementing improvements:
Ensure all systems and upgrades are visible and operational
Gather documentation and proof of upgrades
Book a new EPC assessment to reflect your improved rating
👉 Schedule your EPC assessment here:
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10. Key Takeaways
Small EPC upgrades often pay for themselves through energy savings
LED lighting, heating controls, draught-proofing, insulation, and minor window improvements are cost-effective and impactful
Proper documentation ensures all improvements are credited
Strategic planning of affordable upgrades maximises both EPC points and long-term financial benefits
