How to Improve an EPC Rating from D to C
Understand which improvements could make the biggest difference before spending money on upgrades
The key is identifying which improvements will have the greatest effect on the energy performance of your particular property.
​
For some homes, relatively straightforward measures may be enough. For others, a combination of insulation, heating improvements and renewable technologies may be required.
​
There is no single solution that works for every property.
​
​
Start with the existing EPC
If your property is currently EPC D, read our guide to improving an EPC rating from D to C. Your current Energy Performance Certificate provides a useful starting point.
It will normally identify areas where the property could perform better and suggest possible improvements.
​
However, these recommendations should not automatically be treated as a list of works to carry out.
​
The real question is which improvements are practical, affordable and appropriate for your property.
​
​
Improve the building fabric first
Reducing heat loss is often one of the most important considerations when improving energy efficiency.
​
Depending on the construction of the property, this may include:
-
improving loft or roof insulation
-
insulating solid or cavity walls
-
improving floor insulation
-
addressing poorly insulated extensions
-
reducing draughts and uncontrolled air leakage
​
Improving the fabric of the building can reduce the amount of energy required to keep the property comfortable.
​
​
Review the heating system
An older or inefficient heating system can also affect energy performance.
​
Potential improvements may include:
-
replacing an inefficient boiler
-
improving heating controls
-
installing thermostatic radiator valves
-
upgrading hot-water controls
-
improving the efficiency of the heating distribution system
-
considering a heat pump where appropriate
​
The right heating solution should be considered alongside the insulation and heat-loss characteristics of the property.
​
​
Consider windows carefully
Replacing old windows can improve comfort and reduce draughts, but new glazing can be an expensive way of improving energy performance.
​
Before replacing every window solely to improve an EPC rating, it is worth considering whether insulation, heating controls or other measures may provide better value.
​
In period properties, there may also be alternatives such as secondary glazing or selective upgrading.
​
​
Could solar panels help?
Solar photovoltaic panels can improve the energy performance of suitable properties while also reducing reliance on electricity from the grid.
​
They may be particularly worth considering where the roof has a suitable orientation and there is sufficient unshaded space.
​
Battery storage may also form part of a wider energy strategy, although it should be assessed in relation to the household's electricity usage and future plans.
​
​
Do not make improvements in isolation
One of the most common mistakes is choosing an individual product before considering the property as a whole.
​
For example, a homeowner may begin by obtaining quotes for:
-
replacement windows
-
solar panels
-
a heat pump
-
wall insulation
​
without knowing which measure should actually take priority.
​
A coordinated assessment can help determine where the money is likely to be best spent.
​
​
Find the most practical route from D to C
APN Green Homes provides independent whole-home assessments designed to help property owners understand which energy improvements may be worth considering.
​
We look at the property as a complete system, including its construction, insulation, heating, glazing, ventilation and renewable-energy opportunities.
​
The resulting report helps identify priorities and highlights relevant grants and incentives that may be available.
​
If you are looking to improve a property from EPC D to C, getting the overall strategy right before starting work can help avoid unnecessary expenditure.
​
Green Home Assessment — £495 + VAT
​
Get the plan before you start spending.