With MEES regulations in place, it is essential landlords are aware of the EPC rating at their home. There is also the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act to consider, which means landlords must pay attention to the condition of their home, and the standards they expect tenants to live in.

If you are focused on improving your EPC rating, you may be concerned about the cost of upgrading your home. While the price is relative, and each landlord has their idea of what they can afford, it is important to consider value for money. A suitable investment in your home can pay off in the short and long-term.

You need to stay within your budget, but many landlords appreciate investing in their home provides them with the opportunity to generate more significant income and returns in the long run.

Buy a hot water cylinder jacket

If you are looking for a simple and affordable way to increase your EPC rating, a hot water cylinder jacket is an ideal addition to your rental property. This addition reduces the amount of energy used in your rental accommodation, it helps tenants to spend less on energy bills, and it can add up to five points to your EPC rating.

Get your paperwork in order

It may be that you deserve a higher EPC rating than you currently hold. The straightforward process of showing paperwork, which proves you have loft insulation in place at your rental property can add as much as 20 points to your EPC rating.

Landlords shouldn’t have to be told about the importance of retaining and maintaining paperwork, but this is a casual reminder. If you carry out repair work, make sure you keep all paperwork and invoices, for your records, but also to show tenants and inspectors of work that has been carried out.

Improve your loft insulation

If you don’t currently have loft insulation or wall insulation in place, you are missing out on possible EPC points. Most landlords know the benefits of double glazing, but double glazing is expensive. It can also take many years for landlords to recoup the benefits of double glazing.

However, loft insulation is affordable and makes a big difference. Warm air rises and most heat energy exits the property via the roof. If you have a roof, you should take the time to ensure that it is suitably insulated, as this may help you retain as much as 25% of heat energy in your property.

Switch out your old light bulbs

A quick and familiar way to positively impact your EPC rating is to introduce low-energy light bulbs in the rental property. LED bulbs are more expensive than ordinary bulbs, but they are becoming more affordable. Also, they last over ten times as long as regular bulbs, and they use 90% less energy. Investing in LED bulbs is a brilliant way to improve your EPC!

If you’re a landlord looking to care for your rental property and provide tenants with the best service, contact Andrew Lees, and we’ll be happy to help.