How to Improve EPC Rating on Rental Property
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Review your current EPC recommendations, prioritise cost-effective improvements (LED lighting, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation), consider heating upgrades if budget allows, then commission a new EPC assessment to confirm your improved rating.
With minimum EPC requirements rising, improving your rating is both a legal necessity and a value-add. Here's how to do it efficiently.
Step 1: Review your current EPC certificate recommendations
Your existing EPC contains tailored recommendations. It lists what improvements would help and estimates the cost and impact of each. Start here—don't guess at what might work.
The EPC shows potential ratings if improvements are made. This helps you see what's achievable.
Step 2: Get quotes for recommended improvements
Contact contractors for quotes on the suggested improvements. Get at least three quotes for significant work. Understanding actual costs helps prioritise effectively.
Step 3: Prioritise by cost-effectiveness
Focus on improvements that give the biggest rating boost for the least money. Common high-impact, lower-cost options:
- LED lighting throughout
- Loft insulation (if accessible)
- Cavity wall insulation (if walls are suitable)
- Draught proofing doors and windows
- Hot water cylinder jacket
Step 4: Install low-cost improvements first
Quick wins include:
- LED bulbs: Replace all lighting with LED
- Draught proofing: Seal gaps around doors and windows
- Thermostat: Install or upgrade room thermostat
- TRVs: Thermostatic radiator valves on every radiator
- Pipe insulation: Insulate exposed hot water pipes
These cost hundreds, not thousands, and can shift ratings meaningfully.
Step 5: Consider insulation
Insulation typically offers the best return on EPC improvement. Options depend on your property:
- Loft insulation: 270mm recommended. Relatively cheap and effective
- Cavity wall insulation: If your walls have cavities. Major impact
- Floor insulation: For suspended timber floors
- Solid wall insulation: Expensive but significant for older properties
Step 6: Upgrade heating controls
Modern heating controls improve efficiency ratings. Consider:
- Smart thermostat (remote control, learning features)
- Programmer for heating and hot water
- TRVs on all radiators
Step 7: Consider boiler upgrade if old
Boilers older than 15 years are typically inefficient. A modern condensing boiler can significantly improve ratings. However, boiler replacement is expensive—weigh against other options.
If the boiler works but is old, this might be worth deferring until it fails.
Step 8: Commission new EPC assessment
After improvements, get a new EPC to confirm your improved rating. The new certificate lasts 10 years. You need this updated EPC to prove compliance and market the property accurately.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an EPC cost?
Typically £60-£120. It's valid for 10 years. After significant improvements, getting a new one is worthwhile to reflect the better rating.
What if I can't reach the minimum rating?
Exemptions exist if improvements would cost more than £3,500 (rising to £10,000) or aren't practical for the property. Register exemptions on the PRS Exemptions Register.
Managing this yourself?
LandlordOS helps UK landlords stay compliant and organised:
- Automatic compliance reminders for Gas Safety, EICR, EPC
- Document storage with AI-powered certificate reading
- Tenancy tracking and rent management
LandlordOS tip
Consider improvements between tenancies when access is easier. Bundle EPC upgrades with other void works. The investment pays back through reduced void periods, higher rents, and compliance peace of mind.