Improving EPC Ratings With Insulation

With the Labour government having announced their plans to enforce tougher energy rules for both social homes and the private rental sector, many landlords are now planning to make their properties more energy efficient.

While it hasn’t been confirmed yet, it’s been strongly suggested that landlords in England will need to achieve an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of at least C by 2030, with the introduction of new Landlord EPC Regulations. This could, of course, change. But for now, it’s what many landlords are anticipating and preparing for.

One of the most obvious and practical solutions to increasing energy efficiency in a home is by either installing and/or improving insulation, including floor, roof/loft and wall insulation.

A well-insulated home is one of the most effective ways to save energy and lower heating costs. Below is a breakdown of the main types of insulation, how they work, and the benefits they bring to your property.

Cavity Wall Insulation

33% of the heat lost in an uninsulated home escapes through the walls. Cavity wall insulation is designed to fill the air gap between the inner and outer layers of your wall, creating a barrier that reduces heat loss.

Homes built since the 1990s typically include wall insulation. However, older homes, especially those constructed before the 1980s, often lack insulation. Moreover, not all homes have cavity walls; older homes may have solid walls, which require different insulation techniques.

Loft Insulation

Approximately 25% of your home’s heat can be lost through an uninsulated roof, making loft insulation essential for reducing heat loss and heating costs. It’s also one of the easiest to install if easy access to the loft is available, not to mention cost-effective.

With a typical lifespan of 40 years, loft insulation can pay for itself multiple times through reduced heating costs.

Generally, mineral wool, rigid foam, or natural materials like sheep wool are used for loft insulation. Aim for a minimum thickness of 270mm for optimal performance.

Floor Insulation

While less heat is typically lost through floors compared to walls or roofs (i.e. you’re likely to improve energy ratings by addressing those areas primarily), ground floor insulation is still valuable, especially for homes with unheated spaces below, such as garages or cellars.

Ground floor insulation prevents cold air from seeping up into your home, making your space warmer and cosier.

In most homes, only the ground floor needs insulation. Upper floors, unless located above unheated spaces, generally do not require insulation.

Additional Tips for Optimising Home Insulation

• Seal Drafts: Before adding insulation, ensure all doors, windows, and other openings are well-sealed to prevent drafts.
  
• Check for Dampness: Proper insulation can prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. If your home is prone to dampness, consider damp-proofing as part of the insulation process.
  
• Consider Professional Advice: Insulation needs can vary based on the structure and age of your home. A professional EPC assessment can identify the best insulation solutions for your property.

Insulation grants & funding

It’s worth noting that, as part of Labour’s pledge to raise energy efficiency standards, they have committed £13.2 billion in grants and low-interest loans over the next five years. However, since nothing has been confirmed yet, we don’t know who will or won’t be eligible for these grants. But it’s definitely something to keep an eye on, and it could result in big savings.