Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are designed to reflect the energy efficiency of a property, regardless of its age. However, the age of a property often strongly influences its EPC rating, because older homes tend to have structural and system inefficiencies that modern buildings avoid.
Understanding how property age affects your EPC and what improvements are possible can help homeowners, buyers, and landlords save on energy costs and avoid compliance issues. If you want a professional assessment, you can book an EPC with EPCrate.
Why Older Properties Often Score Lower
Older homes typically have design and construction elements that reduce energy efficiency:
Outdated Insulation
Many older homes were built before modern insulation standards.
Cavity walls may be uninsulated, loft insulation may be minimal, and floors can lack adequate thermal protection.
Inefficient Heating Systems
Original boilers or radiators often use more energy than modern condensing systems.
Lack of programmable thermostats or TRVs reduces heating efficiency.
Single-Glazed Windows
Many older homes still feature single-glazing, which allows heat to escape quickly.
Thermal Bridging and Draughts
Older brickwork and construction methods often create cold bridges.
Drafty doors, windows, and chimneys reduce overall thermal performance.
Outdated Hot Water Systems
Old tanks and pipework without insulation can increase heat loss.
All of these factors contribute to lower EPC bands (E, F, or G) in older properties.
How Newer Properties Benefit EPC Scores
Modern homes are built with energy efficiency in mind:
High-grade insulation in walls, roofs, and floors
Double or triple-glazed windows
Condensing boilers or heat pumps
Integrated heating controls
Energy-efficient lighting and appliances
This naturally results in higher EPC ratings (A–C) and lower energy bills.
What Homeowners Can Do to Improve EPC in Older Properties
Even if your property is old, there are several effective strategies to boost your EPC rating:
1. Upgrade Insulation
Top up loft insulation to at least 270mm
Install cavity or solid wall insulation
Consider underfloor insulation where feasible
2. Improve Heating Efficiency
Replace old boilers with condensing models
Add thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and smart heating controls
3. Replace or Upgrade Windows
Switch from single-glazing to double or triple glazing
Ensure windows are properly sealed to prevent draughts
4. Draught-Proof Doors and Chimneys
Install door seals, letterbox brushes, and chimney balloons
Seal gaps around loft hatches and window frames
5. Insulate Hot Water Systems
Add cylinder jackets and lag hot water pipes
Consider upgrading immersion heaters for efficiency
6. Small Energy-Efficiency Measures
Replace incandescent bulbs with LED lighting
Add radiator reflector panels behind radiators
Consider renewable energy options like solar PV for further EPC boosts
For a professional assessment and tailored improvement plan, check EPC Services with EPCrate.
Why EPC Improvements Matter
Reduced Energy Bills: More efficient homes consume less energy.
Higher Resale Value: Buyers prefer energy-efficient properties.
Compliance: Rental properties must meet minimum EPC requirements (Band E or above).
Environmental Impact: Lower carbon emissions contribute to sustainability goals.
When to Get a Professional EPC Assessment
Property age isn’t the only factor affecting your rating — installation quality, maintenance, and upgrades matter too. A professional assessor will:
Identify high-impact improvements for your property
Advise on cost-effective measures for energy efficiency
Issue an official EPC certificate for compliance
Book an assessment today via EPCrate’s Booking Page.
Final Thoughts
Older properties often face EPC challenges due to their design, construction, and original systems. However, with targeted improvements, these homes can achieve significant efficiency gains, lower bills, and higher EPC ratings.
Email :info@epcrate.co.uk
Phone:020 34884142
