Low-Cost EPC Improvements

Loft and draughts

Top up insulation and draught-proof.

Heating controls

Thermostatic radiator valves and programmers.

Lighting

LED lighting.

Low-disruption measures

Many EPC improvements cost little and cause no upheaval: topping up loft insulation to current recommended depths, insulating the hot water cylinder and pipes, draught-proofing doors, windows and loft hatches, fitting a programmer, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves, and replacing old bulbs with LEDs.

Larger measures

Cavity wall insulation, underfloor insulation, upgraded glazing, solar PV and a heat pump usually move the rating further but involve more planning. An assessor's recommendations report lists the measures that suit your property.

Before you sell or let

If you are preparing to sell or let, complete improvements before booking a new EPC assessment so the certificate reflects them, and keep invoices and installation certificates to show the assessor.

Scottish housing and heat loss

Scotland's homes include solid sandstone and granite tenements, rubble-built cottages, interwar cavity-wall houses, post-war no-fines concrete and timber-framed homes, and modern estates. Each loses heat differently. Solid stone walls need breathable approaches, often internal insulation with care around damp. Cavity walls can often be filled, though driving rain on exposed west-facing elevations needs to be considered. Timber kit homes usually benefit most from loft top-ups and draught-proofing.

Windows and doors are a large share of heat loss in older homes, especially original single-glazed sash and case windows. Conservation areas and listed buildings in places such as Edinburgh New Town, Stirling and many town centres have rules about what can be changed, so check with your council before ordering replacements.

How our survey works

Every project starts with a no-obligation survey. We look at your roof orientation, pitch, shading and condition, your fuse board and meter position, where a battery or inverter could go, and how your household uses electricity through the day and across the Scottish seasons. You then receive a written quote showing the equipment, the expected generation for your roof and the full price, so you can compare it fairly. We handle the network connection paperwork with your local distribution network operator, which is SP Energy Networks in central and southern Scotland and SSEN in the north, Highlands and islands. We install through MCS-certified partners. Solar panels and batteries are 0% VAT until March 2027. Finance available, subject to status.

Related guides

• EPC Ratings Explained
• Loft Insulation Scotland
• Which Energy Upgrade First?