How energy efficient is your home?
Why Improving Your homes EPC Rating is a Smart Investment, and how we can help
If you own a property, you will already know how important it is to keep it well maintained. What many people don’t always consider is the financial impact of their property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. An EPC is more than just a piece of paperwork for selling or renting a home. It is a measure of how energy efficient your property is, and improving it can bring lasting financial benefits.
What is an EPC rating?
An EPC rating is a government-issued measure of how energy efficient your property is. It is presented on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. You will normally see your property’s EPC when you buy, sell, or rent a home, and it outlines how much energy your property uses, along with recommendations for improvements.
Even if you are not planning to move, checking your EPC rating can give you a clear picture of where your property is losing energy and what can be done to improve it. You can do so on the GOV.UK website here.
How can you improve your EPC rating?
There are several ways to lift your EPC rating and make your home more efficient. Common steps include:
Improving insulation: Adding insulation to walls, lofts and floors helps keep heat in.
Sealing damp and drafts: Tackling damp issues and fixing cracks or gaps stops cold air entering and warm air escaping.
Upgrading windows and doors: Double or triple glazing and well-sealed doors make a noticeable difference.
Switching to efficient lighting: LED bulbs use far less energy than traditional options.
Heating system upgrades: Replacing old boilers with modern, efficient models improves performance and lowers bills.
Renewable energy options: Where suitable, solar panels or heat pumps can provide long-term energy savings.
What are the benefits of a good EPC rating?
Lower energy bills
One of the most obvious advantages is the reduction in energy costs. A higher EPC rating means your home keeps heat in more effectively, meaning less money is wasted on heating. Simple changes such as insulation, damp proofing and addressing problem areas in your walls can prevent heat from escaping and reduce the strain on your energy bills. With energy prices still unpredictable, those savings add up quickly.
Increase in property value
A home with a strong EPC rating often attracts more interest on the market. Buyers and tenants are becoming increasingly aware of running costs and sustainability, so an efficient property stands out. Upgrading your rating could make your home easier to sell or rent and may even increase its market value. For landlords, this is particularly important, as legislation is tightening around rental properties needing a certain EPC level.
Protection against future costs
Leaving damp issues or poor insulation untreated rarely stays cheap for long. Problems that are overlooked now often become more expensive repairs later. By investing in improvements to boost your EPC rating, you are also protecting yourself from future financial headaches.
How Shield can help
At Shield, we understand the practical steps needed to improve a property’s energy efficiency. From treating damp that weakens insulation to plastering and repair work that supports a warmer and healthier home, we can help create the conditions needed for a better EPC rating. Our team focuses on long-lasting solutions that keep your property in good condition while also saving you money over time.
Contact us today for a no-obligation quote and see how we can help improve your home.
