Retrofitting older rental properties can feel daunting, especially in Victorian terraces, pre-war semis, and HMOs built long before energy efficiency was a priority. Solid walls, draughty windows, and ageing heating systems often make it harder to improve comfort and meet modern standards. The good news is that there are practical retrofit options that may improve comfort and could help reduce energy use, depending on the property.
With proposed EPC C requirements on the horizon, landlords of older homes face some of the toughest retrofit challenges. This guide explains why these homes struggle to meet the standard, the practical upgrade options available, and where to find financial support options, which may help with the cost depending on your circumstances.
Why Retrofitting Older Rental Properties to EPC C Can Be Challenging
When retrofitting older rental properties, the most effective improvements depend on the building type, construction method, and existing energy performance. Older rental properties were built with very different construction methods and materials than today’s energy-efficient homes. Common issues include:
- Solid walls that are harder and more expensive to insulate than cavity walls
- Single-glazed or sash windows that allow heat to escape
- Inefficient heating systems, often relying on older boilers or even no central heating at all.
- Poor loft and floor insulation, leading to significant heat loss.
- Complex upgrade logistics, as some improvements may require tenants to temporarily move out.
While the challenges can seem daunting, with the right advice, tailored solutions and careful planning, even hard-to-treat homes could achieve meaningful efficiency improvements.
Retrofit Solutions for Retrofitting Older Rental Properties
Insulation Options When Retrofitting Older Rental Properties
Most older homes have solid brick or stone walls that lose heat quickly. The two main retrofit options are:
- Internal Wall Insulation (IWI)
This method adds insulation to the inside of external walls using insulated plasterboard or stud walls with mineral wool or foam. It’s usually cheaper and preserves the building’s exterior, but it can slightly reduce internal room size and must be installed correctly to avoid damp.
- External Wall Insulation (EWI)
This involves fixing insulated panels to the outside walls, finished with render or cladding. It’s more expensive but highly effective and can refresh the appearance of the property.
Whichever route you choose, professional installation is essential. Solid walls need proper ventilation and moisture control – otherwise, insulation can trap damp and cause mould growth over time.
Window and Door Upgrades
Replacing original windows isn’t always practical or permitted in heritage buildings. In these cases, secondary glazing could be a cost-effective and less intrusive alternative. It involves fitting a discreet second pane inside the existing frame to improve insulation and sound proofing.
Adding draught-proofing around doors, skirting boards and windows can be a simple but effective first step for reducing heat loss.
Efficient Heating and Hot Water
Heating upgrades can deliver significant EPC improvements, particularly where existing systems are inefficient.
Consider:
- High-efficiency condensing boilers for gas properties.
- Air or ground source heat pumps: typically most effective in well-insulated homes using renewable energy.
- Modern electric systems may be considered in some cases, particularly in off-gas areas, depending on property suitability and running costs.
Adding smart controls and thermostats could help manage energy use through scheduling, zoning and remote access, may help improve comfort and support more efficient energy use.
Ventilation and Damp Prevention
When upgrading insulation, it’s important to balance warmth with airflow. Solid-wall properties are naturally more prone to damp, so consider ventilation measures (like extractor fans or trickle vents) alongside insulation.
Lighting and Small Fixes
Not all energy upgrades require major works. Quick wins can include:
- LED lighting, which typically use less electricity than traditional bulbs.
- Loft insulation top-ups, especially if existing insulation is thin or patchy.
- Reflective radiator panels, to bounce back heat into rooms.
- Simple draught excluders for doors and windows, offering low-cost improvements with immediate results.
We recommend that you book an independent retrofit assessment to find out which works are suitable for your home and budget.
Funding Options for Retrofitting Older Rental Properties
Improving older homes can be costly, but there’s help available. Grants or subsidised schemes may also be available in some areas, depending on eligibility and property criteria.
Some landlords could access local council-backed loans, subject to eligibility and criteria, such as Lendology’s
Renewables Loan (subject to council partner).
These loans can support insulation, heating upgrades, renewable installations, and other retrofit works. Some landlords choose to use finance options to help manage upfront costs, although eligibility criteria apply and repayments will be required, which may affect your financial circumstances.
Find out more about eligibility, costs and key considerations for Energy Efficiency Loans, and Renewable Energy Loans.
Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide for Landlords
1. Check your current EPC rating to understand where improvements are needed.
2. Identify your target rating and review which upgrades will make the biggest impact.
3. Check eligibility for national or local grant schemes (for example, via your local council or GOV.UK)
4. Get quotes from accredited contractors look for TrustMark or MCS accreditation.
5. Apply for grants or loans to help fund the work.
6. Keep all documentation, including EPCs before and after, invoices, and proof of ownership.
7. Notify tenants or letting agents about planned works and update your compliance records once complete.
Retrofitting older rental properties can seem daunting, but it’s a vital step to help prepare for potential future regulatory changes. With the right mix of insulation, heating upgrades, and ventilation, even the oldest homes could become warmer, more efficient, and more desirable places to live.
Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future.
A Title Restriction means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid.
This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC.
Lendology CIC is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263)
This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.
