How to improve an EPC rating

What an EPC measures, the improvements that most often raise the score, and how to find or update a certificate.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a home from A (most efficient) to G, based on a standard assessment of its fabric, heating and lighting. Each certificate lists recommended improvements and their estimated effect.

Raising the rating usually means reducing heat loss and moving to more efficient heating and lighting; the biggest gains come from the measures the certificate itself recommends.

Typical UK cost

Cost ranges are indicative and attributed to Energy Saving Trust. Prices vary by property, region and installer – always get quotes and check the official source.

Typical saving

A higher rating reflects lower estimated running costs; the certificate shows the estimated cost before and after its recommended measures.

Saving figures are indicative and attributed to gov.uk: Find an energy certificate. Check the official source.

Payback

The certificate ranks its recommendations, so the cheapest points are usually the low-cost measures at the top of that list.

How to go about it

1. Find the current certificate on the gov.uk register to see its recommendations.
2. Start with the low-cost measures it lists (lighting, draught-proofing, loft insulation).
3. Consider the larger fabric and heating measures where they are recommended.
4. Commission a new assessment after the work to record the improved rating.

What affects the price

• The current fabric, heating and lighting recorded on the certificate.
• Which of the recommended measures are carried out.
• Whether a fresh assessment is commissioned after the work.