Affordable Ways to Improve Your Rental Property’s Energy Rating

With new UK regulations pushing rental properties to achieve an EPC rating of ‘C’ or higher, landlords are now looking for cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency. Fortunately, upgrading your rental property doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here are some budget-friendly solutions to help meet the new standards while keeping costs down.

1. Improve Insulation (Low-Cost, High Impact)

Good insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency, and there are affordable ways to do it:

• Draught-proofing: Seal gaps in doors, windows, and chimneys with weather stripping, sealant, or draught excluders (Cost: £10-£50).

• Loft insulation: Adding insulation to the attic significantly reduces heat loss (Cost: £300-£500, with potential grants available).

• Reflective radiator panels: These redirect heat back into the room rather than being absorbed by walls (Cost: £10-£30 per panel).

  
  

2. Upgrade Lighting (Quick & Cheap Fix)

Switching to energy-efficient lighting is a simple and inexpensive way to cut energy use:

• Replace old bulbs with LEDs, which use up to 90% less energy and last longer (Cost: around £2 per bulb).

• Install motion sensor lights in hallways and communal areas to reduce unnecessary electricity use.

  
  

3. Smart Heating Without a Full System Overhaul

Heating upgrades don’t need to be costly—small tweaks can improve efficiency:

• Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs): Allow tenants to control temperatures in individual rooms (Cost: £15-£30 per valve).

• Smart thermostats: Though they require an upfront investment (£100-£200), they enable remote heating control, reducing overall energy consumption.

• Bleed radiators: Removing trapped air improves heat distribution, which costs nothing but boosts efficiency.

  
  

4. Energy-Efficient Appliances (Small Swaps, Big Savings)

Appliance upgrades can be done gradually, focusing on high-impact areas:

• When replacing white goods, opt for A-rated energy-efficient models.

• Fit aerators to taps to cut down on water wastage (Cost: £5-£10).

• Encourage tenants to use eco settings on washing machines and dishwashers.

• Install standby savers to reduce phantom energy drain from electronics (Cost: £10-£20).

  
  

5. Window Upgrades on a Budget

Replacing windows can be expensive, but these cost-effective alternatives help retain heat:

• Thermal blinds or curtains provide an extra insulation layer (Cost: £30-£100 per window).

• Secondary glazing film is a temporary but effective solution for better heat retention (Cost: £10-£40 per window).

  
  

6. Government Grants & Support

Landlords may be able to take advantage of grants and schemes to offset costs:

• Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS): Provides free or discounted insulation for eligible properties.

• Local authority schemes: Some councils offer financial support for energy-efficient improvements.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Prioritising small, high-impact changes is the best way to make cost-effective upgrades while meeting new EPC standards. These affordable improvements reduce energy costs for both landlords and tenants, making properties more attractive and compliant without major investments.

By taking proactive steps now, landlords can future-proof their properties and stay ahead of tightening regulations without breaking the bank.

If you need expert advice or hands-on help implementing these upgrades, our team of vetted, qualified tradespeople is here to make the process smooth and hassle-free. Give us a call on 07359033202 to see how we can help you meet the new EPC regulations with ease!