Independent information
This is an independent information guide. Impact estimates are general indications compiled from Energy Saving Trust publications and industry sources. Actual improvements depend on your property's specific characteristics. Always get professional assessments before proceeding. This page contains affiliate links — if you order an EPC through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Quick wins: low cost, high impact
According to the Energy Saving Trust, these improvements offer the best return for the lowest investment.
Quick win 1
Loft insulation
According to the Energy Saving Trust, topping up loft insulation to the recommended 270mm depth is one of the most cost-effective energy improvements.
Quick win 2
Cavity wall insulation
If your property has unfilled cavity walls (common in homes built 1920s–1990s), filling them can significantly improve heat retention.
Quick win 3
Draught proofing
Sealing gaps around windows, doors, and floorboards is one of the cheapest improvements and can be done as a DIY project.
Quick win 4
LED lighting
Replacing all bulbs with LED equivalents is a simple change that EPC assessors specifically check for. Modern LEDs use a fraction of the energy.
Major improvements: higher cost, bigger impact
These improvements can jump your rating by multiple bands and are often partially or fully funded by government grants.
Heat pump
Heat pump installation
Replacing a gas boiler with a heat pump can significantly improve your EPC rating. The £7,500 BUS grant covers a substantial portion of costs.
Solar PV
Solar panels
Solar PV generates renewable electricity and can significantly boost your EPC score, especially when combined with battery storage.
Glazing
Double/triple glazing
Upgrading from single to double or triple glazing reduces heat loss through windows and improves comfort.
Check If You Qualify for Free Improvements
Many EPC improvements are fully funded by government grants. Check your eligibility.
Key eligibility factors:
- ECO4 closed March 2026
- Insulation routes now via GBIS
- Heat pump routes now via BUS
Check your property against the live MHCLG EPC register to see your current band and every grant you qualify for — free, in under a minute.
Check your propertyStep by step: improving your EPC
Get your current EPC
Check the EPC register or order an EPC assessment online to understand your starting point.
Review recommendations
Your EPC lists recommended improvements with estimated costs and potential savings.
Check grant eligibility
Use the checker to see if government schemes will fund your improvements.
Get a new EPC
After improvements, commission a new EPC assessment to confirm your improved rating.
Related guides
Insulation
Cavity wall insulation
The biggest EPC boost for most homes. Often grant-funded and installed in just a few hours.
Read guide →Heat pump
Heat pump guide
Replacing your boiler with a heat pump can jump your EPC by two or more bands. £7,500 grant available.
Read guide →Solar PV
Solar panel guide
Solar PV adds valuable points to your EPC score and generates free electricity for your home.
Read guide →Ready to improve your EPC?
Check if government grants will fund your improvements — many homeowners pay nothing.