Small minority of landlords aware of EPC points system

Only 5% of landlords know about the numerical points system when it comes to EPC ratings, according to epIMS.

An EPC rating is graded alphabetically from A to G. However, a point system determines the rating.

For example, a score of 92-100 SAP points gives a rating of A, 81-91 points gives a rating of B, and 69-80 points gives a rating of C.

Push EPC rating higher

If a property is on the very edge of breaking into an improved EPC rating, there are a number of small improvements that can be made to add the required couple of points to push the overall score into a higher rating.

According to epIMS, adding a hot water cylinder insulation adds an average of +1.7 points; a hot water cylinder thermostat adds +2.4 points; and installing low energy lighting adds an average of +1.1 points to a property’s EPC rating.

Research by epIMS suggests that the most eco-friendly heating options may not always score the highest in terms of EPC points.

For example, a standard condensing gas boiler adds an average of +23 points, while a BIOMASS boiler only adds +12 points.

Vast majority remain unaware that an EPC rating is based on a points system

Chief operating officer of epIMS, Craig Cooper, says it’s important for landlords to understand the EPC points system.

He said: “Whilst the estimated cost of achieving a C rating comes in at around £8,000, many landlords may find that they pour a far greater amount of money into their property without seeing any real improvement to their EPC score.

“That’s because the vast majority remain unaware that an EPC rating is based on a points system and understanding this is the first step to making home improvements that will actually make a difference when it comes to improving an EPC score.

“Of course, this knowledge is only useful if you know what score your property currently holds and exactly how many points you’re going to get from each particular efficiency upgrade available.”

Room in roof insulation can add to your EPC score

epIMS says there are several other ways to improve a property’s EPC rating, with some methods providing more points than others.

Solar panels, for example, can add an average of +9.91 points to a property’s score, while a wind turbine can contribute +6.39 points. Improved insulation is another effective option. While double glazing is a common choice, it can be expensive and only adds an average of +3.3 points to the EPC score.

Bigger jobs, such as loft insulation (+4.9 points) and wall insulation (+7.7 points), can offer more substantial benefits. However, room-in-roof insulation stands out as the most effective measure, adding a significant +9.91 points to the EPC score.

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