If your property is currently EPC E, see our guide to improving an EPC rating from E to C.

 

The first stage should be to understand the existing building.

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Potential weaknesses can include:

• little or no loft insulation

• uninsulated solid walls

• poorly insulated cavity walls

• suspended floors with no insulation

• older windows and doors

• inefficient heating

• limited heating controls

• poorly insulated hot-water systems

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Some of these improvements may be relatively straightforward. Others can involve substantial cost and disruption.

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Insulation can make a major difference

 

For many older properties, improving insulation will form an important part of the strategy.

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Loft insulation is often relatively simple, but wall and floor insulation require much more careful consideration.

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Solid-wall properties in particular need an appropriate approach to moisture, ventilation and condensation risk.

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Simply adding insulation without understanding the construction of the building can create problems rather than solve them.

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Heating efficiency matters

 

A property rated E may also have an older heating system.

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Improving the heating system and controls can potentially provide significant benefits.

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Options may include:

• upgrading the boiler

• improving heating controls

• fitting thermostatic radiator valves

• improving hot-water controls

• upgrading radiators

• considering heat-pump technology

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However, major heating changes should ideally be considered after understanding the insulation and heat-loss characteristics of the property.

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Should the windows be replaced?

 

Older single-glazed or poorly performing windows may contribute to heat loss and discomfort.

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Replacement glazing can help, but it can also represent a significant investment.

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Before committing to new windows throughout the property, it is worth comparing the likely benefit with other measures such as insulation or heating improvements.

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The most expensive improvement is not necessarily the one that should be carried out first.

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Solar panels and renewable technologies

 

Solar photovoltaic panels may also contribute to improving the overall energy performance of a suitable property.

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A heat pump, battery storage or other low-carbon technology may also be worth considering as part of a wider strategy.

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The important point is that these technologies should not be considered independently of the building itself.

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Improving insulation and reducing heat loss may substantially change the type or size of heating system required.

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Plan the route from E to C

 

When several improvements may be required, sequencing becomes particularly important.

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For example, it may make sense to improve insulation before replacing the heating system.

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Likewise, ventilation requirements should be considered when making a property substantially more airtight.

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A whole-home approach allows the different improvements to be considered together.

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Independent advice before you invest

 

APN Green Homes provides independent assessments for homeowners and property owners who want to improve the energy performance of their property.

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We consider the property as a complete system rather than focusing on one product or technology.

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Your personalised report can consider:

• insulation

• heating

• glazing

• ventilation

• solar panels

• battery storage

• heat pumps

• cooling

• grants and incentives

• priorities for future improvements

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If you are trying to move a property from EPC E to C, understanding the most practical route before commissioning work can help you make better investment decisions.

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Green Home Assessment — £495 + VAT

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Get the plan before you start spending.