How to improve your property’s EPC rating from F to C: A practical guide for homeowners and landlords
If your property has an EPC rating of F, you’re likely aware of the challenges that come with it—higher energy bills, legal restrictions on letting, and a less comfortable living environment. The good news? With the right approach, you can significantly boost your property’s energy performance—and this guide will walk you through each essential step.
🏡 Step 1: Understand your current EPC
Before making any changes, review your property’s most recent Energy Performance Certificate. This report identifies the areas where your property is losing energy and provides recommended measures for improvement. Use it as your roadmap.
🧱 Step 2: Prioritise key improvements
Focus on upgrades that offer the best balance of cost and impact:
Insulation: Loft and cavity wall insulation are cost-effective upgrades that can yield substantial energy savings.
Heating Systems: Replace outdated boilers with modern condensing models or consider renewable solutions like heat pumps.
Windows & Draughts: Install double glazing and seal gaps to retain warmth and improve comfort.
These measures often make the biggest difference in moving your EPC rating upward.
📝 Step 3: Create an improvement plan
Here’s an example of what your planning might look like:
| Upgrade | Estimated EPC Gain | Typical Cost | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loft Insulation | +5 to +10 | £200 – £600 | Quick win for thermal performance |
| Cavity Wall Insulation | +5 to +8 | £1,000 – £3,000 | Reduces heating demand significantly |
| Condensing Boiler | +10 to +15 | £2,000 – £4,000 | More efficient and future-ready |
| Double Glazing | +3 to +7 | £1,500 – £3,500 | Prevents heat loss through windows |
| Draught Proofing | +2 to +5 | £100 – £300 | Low cost, immediate impact |
Be sure to research available grants or funding support schemes such as ECO4 or the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to offset the investment.
👷 Step 4: Work with certified professionals
Make sure all work is carried out by qualified installers:
Look for TrustMark-accredited professionals.
Ensure they follow PAS 2030 installation standards.
If you’re undertaking a comprehensive retrofit, align with the PAS 2035 standard for whole-house upgrades.
🔧 Step 5: Carry out the improvements
You might choose to complete upgrades in stages, starting with insulation and heating. Phasing improvements is often more manageable financially and logistically.
📈 Step 6: Book a new EPC assessment
Once the work is complete, schedule a fresh EPC survey to validate your new rating. Keep documentation of all upgrades—receipts, warranties, and compliance certificates—as they’ll support your new assessment and be useful when selling or renting the property.
🔄 Step 7: Future-proof your property
Energy efficiency is a long game. Stay ahead by:
Maintaining systems regularly
Considering solar panels or battery storage as your next step
Keeping an eye on evolving regulations and incentives
🏁 Final thoughts
Improving a property’s EPC rating from F to C isn’t just about ticking a regulatory box—it’s an investment in comfort, running cost savings, and long-term value. At Surrey Energy Ratings Ltd, we offer expert domestic EPC assessments and practical guidance tailored to your home. If you’d like a personalised improvement plan based on your current EPC, we’re here to help.
📞 Contact us today to start your upgrade journey.
