How to Improve Your EPC Rating

The most effective improvements to boost your property's energy efficiency, reduce bills, and increase value. Most homeowners can improve by 1-3 bands.

At a Glance: Cost vs. Savings

ImprovementCostAnnual SavingsPaybackRating Boost
Solar Panels5,000 - 8,000 GBP300 - 500 GBP8-12 years1-2 bands
Loft Insulation300 - 500 GBP200 - 300 GBP1-2 years1-2 bands
Wall Insulation500 - 1,500 GBP (cavity) or 5,000 - 14,000 GBP (solid wall)200 - 450 GBP3-5 years (cavity) or 10-15 years (solid wall)1-3 bands
Double or Triple Glazing3,000 - 7,000 GBP (full house)100 - 200 GBP10-20 years1 band
Boiler Upgrade2,000 - 4,000 GBP (gas boiler) or 7,000 - 15,000 GBP (heat pump before grant)200 - 400 GBP5-8 years (gas) or 8-12 years (heat pump)1-2 bands
Smart Heating Controls150 - 300 GBP75 - 150 GBP1-2 years0-1 band

Solar Panels

Solar PV panels generate free electricity from sunlight. A typical 4kW system generates around 3,400 kWh per year, covering about 40% of an average household's electricity use. Through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you earn money for excess electricity exported to the grid.

Typical Cost

5,000 - 8,000 GBP

Annual Savings

300 - 500 GBP

Payback Period

8-12 years

Rating Boost

1-2 bands

Key Points

  • South-facing roofs generate the most electricity
  • MCS certification is required for SEG payments
  • Battery storage (add 2,000-4,000 GBP) lets you use more of your own electricity
  • Planning permission is usually not required for domestic installations

Explore Solar Panel Options

Compare system options and ask the provider to explain installer accreditation, total installed cost, generation assumptions and payback for your roof.

Savings and payback depend on your roof, tariff and usage

Explore Solar Options

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Loft Insulation

Loft insulation is one of the cheapest and most effective energy improvements. The recommended depth is 270mm of mineral wool. If you have less than 100mm, topping up is a no-brainer. Around 25% of heat is lost through an uninsulated roof.

Typical Cost

300 - 500 GBP

Annual Savings

200 - 300 GBP

Payback Period

1-2 years

Rating Boost

1-2 bands

Key Points

  • DIY-friendly if your loft is accessible
  • Check if you qualify for free insulation under ECO4
  • Ensure adequate ventilation is maintained
  • Top up existing insulation if it is less than 270mm deep

Compare Insulation Quotes

Compare providers, then check the proposed material, coverage, ventilation plan, guarantees and total fitted price before choosing an installer.

Costs and savings depend on the property and existing insulation

Compare Quotes

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Wall Insulation

About 35% of heat is lost through uninsulated walls. Cavity wall insulation fills the gap between inner and outer walls. Solid wall insulation (internal or external) is more expensive but effective for older properties without cavities.

Typical Cost

500 - 1,500 GBP (cavity) or 5,000 - 14,000 GBP (solid wall)

Annual Savings

200 - 450 GBP

Payback Period

3-5 years (cavity) or 10-15 years (solid wall)

Rating Boost

1-3 bands

Key Points

  • Cavity wall insulation is quick (2-3 hours) and cost-effective
  • Solid wall insulation has higher upfront cost but bigger savings
  • External cladding can also improve your property's appearance
  • ECO4 grants may cover part or all of the cost

Compare Insulation Quotes

Compare providers, then check the proposed material, coverage, ventilation plan, guarantees and total fitted price before choosing an installer.

Costs and savings depend on the property and existing insulation

Compare Quotes

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Double or Triple Glazing

Replacing single-glazed windows with double glazing can save around 10% on heating bills. Triple glazing offers even better performance. A-rated windows are the most efficient option available. Modern windows also reduce noise and condensation.

Typical Cost

3,000 - 7,000 GBP (full house)

Annual Savings

100 - 200 GBP

Payback Period

10-20 years

Rating Boost

1 band

Key Points

  • A-rated windows offer the best energy performance
  • Consider secondary glazing for listed buildings
  • FENSA-registered installers can self-certify Building Regulations compliance
  • Some local authorities offer grants for window upgrades

Compare Energy Deals

Compare available tariffs for your postcode, meter and usage. Check unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and the full estimated annual cost.

Available tariffs and any saving depend on your current deal and usage

Compare Energy Deals

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Boiler Upgrade

If your boiler is more than 10-15 years old, a modern condensing boiler can be up to 30% more efficient. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides up to 7,500 GBP towards an air source heat pump or 5,000 GBP towards a ground source heat pump as an alternative.

Typical Cost

2,000 - 4,000 GBP (gas boiler) or 7,000 - 15,000 GBP (heat pump before grant)

Annual Savings

200 - 400 GBP

Payback Period

5-8 years (gas) or 8-12 years (heat pump)

Rating Boost

1-2 bands

Key Points

  • A-rated condensing boilers are 90%+ efficient
  • Heat pumps are eligible for 5,000-7,500 GBP government grants
  • Smart thermostats add further savings of 75-150 GBP per year
  • Powerflush your radiators when replacing the boiler

Get a Fixed-Price Boiler Quote

Answer the provider's property questions for an online quote, then check the boiler model, controls, warranty, installation scope and finance terms.

Price and savings depend on the home and existing system

Get a Fixed Quote

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Smart Heating Controls

Smart thermostats learn your schedule and only heat your home when needed. Combined with thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), you can control temperature room by room. This is one of the lowest-cost improvements with a quick payback.

Typical Cost

150 - 300 GBP

Annual Savings

75 - 150 GBP

Payback Period

1-2 years

Rating Boost

0-1 band

Key Points

  • Nest, Hive, and Tado are popular smart thermostat brands
  • TRVs let you turn off heating in unused rooms
  • Most smart thermostats can be self-installed
  • Geofencing features automatically adjust heating when you leave

Compare Energy Deals

Compare available tariffs for your postcode, meter and usage. Check unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and the full estimated annual cost.

Available tariffs and any saving depend on your current deal and usage

Compare Energy Deals

Independent provider link. Home Energy Check is not currently paid for this link.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Look up your property's EPC to see personalised recommendations based on your home's current features.

Look Up Your Property