The government wants people to increase the EPC rating of their houses. It’s good for the environment, but does it also improve a house’s value?

What’s an EPC?

EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. It’s like a report card for your house that shows how energy efficient it is, ranging from A (very efficient) to G (not efficient at all).

Why Should I Care? Two main reasons:

1. Saving the Planet: Energy efficient homes produce fewer emissions which is good for the environment.
2. Saving Money: The more energy efficient your home, the less you spend on energy bills. And, importantly, it can add value to your home if you decide to sell or rent it out.

Important Dates: By 2025: New rental properties need at least a C rating. By 2028: All rental properties should have a C rating.

Show Me the Money! Upgrading the energy efficiency of your home can mean a bigger sale price:

• D to C? Your home’s value can rise by 3%. On an average home, that’s an extra £8,576. But it might cost you around £7,401 to make those changes.
• E to C? Add 7% or about £20,010. The upgrade might cost £10,148.
• The jackpot? F to C. Value could jump 15% (that’s £42,879 more!). Costs? About £14,670.

In simple terms, the more you have to upgrade, the more value you could potentially add!

How Do I Boost My EPC Rating?

1. Insulation: Think of it like a cozy jumper for your house. Upgrade windows to at least double-glazing and insulate your walls, floors, and ceilings.
2. Lighting: Swap out old bulbs for energy-saving ones, like LEDs. A small change with a big impact!
3. Heating: Got an old boiler? It might be time for an upgrade. And adding a smart meter lets you keep a close eye on energy use.
4. Go Green: Consider adding solar panels or other renewable energy sources. You can cut your energy costs even more and sometimes even sell energy back to the grid!

Conclusion

Mitchell Fasanya of Searchland says EPC ratings were once overlooked, but now they’re in the spotlight. Especially with climate change being a major concern. If government proposals go ahead, properties that don’t meet the new standards might be less attractive to investors. However, homeowners that act early stand to gain the most. Improving your EPC rating is a smart move – good for the planet, great for your pocket!