An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a requirement for all UK rental properties and tells you how energy efficient your home is, rating it from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient).
From 2020, in order to improve the energy efficiency of homes in the private rental sector, the government put in place changes that mean they must have a minimum rating of E or better under the MEES legislation. This means that it is now unlawful for landlords to rent out a private dwelling with an EPC rating of F or G and non-compliance can result in fines of up to £5,000.
From 2025, further changes are expected which will mean the minimum requirement for private rented homes will be an EPC for rating of at least a ‘C’.
If you are thinking about, how do I ‘let my property online’ but have an EPC rating that isn’t up to the required standards, then here are some helpful tips on how you can improve it and get it to where it needs to be.
Insulate the Property
One of the most impactful changes you can make to your property will be to improve its insulation as that is where you will tend to lose the most heat, about 25% through the roof and 35% through the walls.
It can work out to be very cost effective with some people even choosing to do some of the work themselves where possible. Here are a few key areas you can insulate;
- Walls require cavity wall insulation that requires a professional to install but can cost less than you think and save a lot of money on wasted energy.
- Floors can be insulated under the floorboards and gaps between the floor and skirting boards can be filled to reduce draughts using a tube of sealant.
- Loft insulation is often present in properties but just not enough of it so topping off to make sure there is at least 270mm of insulation can help to save you money each year and it is possible in many cases to do it yourself!
- Hot water cylinder insulation is cheap, quick and easy to install with hot water cylinder jackets costing around £17 but potentially saving around £70 a year.
Upgrade to LED Light Bulbs
Low energy lighting is a quick win for any property that requires no tradesmen or expensive labour. Simply replace your existing halogen light bulbs with energy efficient LEDs that not only reduce energy and save money but can last as long as 20-30 years!
Replace Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are responsible for around 40% of heat loss in the home, especially if they are older. By replacing your old windows and doors with new, high performance triple glazing, you can reduce heat loss, save money and raise your EPC score by at least 1 or 2 grades.
Replace Your Inefficient Boiler
Whilst having to buy a new boiler can make the heart of every property owner sink, it really isn’t as bad as it seems and can be extremely cost-effective in the long term. An A rated boiler makes your property much more energy efficient and can be paired with smart technology to help with further savings on heating bills.
Install a Smart Meter
Although smart meters themselves won’t directly improve your EPC rating, they help tenants to make better decisions and encourages them to make savings by providing them with real-time information on much energy they are using.
Invest in Solar Panels
If your budget can stretch to it and you are keen on creating a property that is energy efficient then solar photovoltaic panels are a domestic renewable energy source that can help to reduce your energy bills and cut carbon emissions.
