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In 2019, the UK became the first major economy to commit to achieving Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. To help meet this ambitious target, the government has started to make changes across many sectors, including energy efficiency in homes.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures how energy efficient a building is, based on things like insulation, heating systems, and overall energy use. The rating is given on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
For landlords, properties with lower EPC ratings may need to be upgraded to meet the emerging Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). Failure to meet these regulations could result in fines. Landlords might also struggle to find tenants as people are becoming more aware of energy efficiency and want to avoid high energy bills.
For homeowners, an EPC provides insights into how much energy a property consumes and the potential for energy savings. Although there is no immediate deadline for homeowners to meet specific EPC requirements, having a better rating can reduce energy costs, improve comfort, and may even increase property value.
Making small, simple changes in your home can make a big difference to both your energy usage and your bills.
Here are some easy things to try:
These small adjustments can make your home more comfortable and reduce your carbon footprint without major upfront costs.
If you're looking to make bigger improvements, there are options that can provide benefits over the long term:
Before making any decisions, it's important to speak with an expert and assess factors like upfront costs, expected payback periods, and potential energy savings for your circumstances. Government grants or financing options may also be available for certain energy efficient improvements, but these vary and should be researched carefully.
For larger projects, finding the right professional is important. We recommend using the TrustMark scheme. TrustMark is the only government endorsed quality scheme in the UK covering home upgrades in or around the home, ensuring tradespeople are qualified and reliable. You'll have peace of mind, knowing that work is completed to a high standard.
To search for trusted professionals near you, visit the TrustMark website or check government-endorsed resources.
