The Weekend Reno – Energy Efficiency Checklist

Improving your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is one of the most strategic moves a UK renovator can make in 2026. With the government’s “Warm Homes Plan” in full swing and new regulations requiring rental properties to hit a Grade C for new tenancies this year, energy efficiency has moved from a “nice-to-have” to a massive value-driver.
On your Priority Matrix, these projects sit in the “High Impact / High ROI” quadrant because they reduce monthly bills while protecting your property’s long-term resale value.

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The Weekend Reno – Energy Efficiency Checklist

The “EPC Boost” Energy Efficiency Checklist

Phase 1: The Shopping List

Targeting the “Quick Wins” that move the needle on a surveyor’s report without requiring a major construction crew.

The “Big Three” Improvements:

270mm Loft Insulation: If you have some insulation but can still see the joists, you need a “top-up.” (Look for mineral wool rolls like Knauf or Rockwool).
Smart Thermostat Kit: (e.g., Google Nest, Hive, or Tado). Ensure it includes the “Hub” for remote smartphone control.
LED Lightbulb Bulk Pack: Replace every single bulb in the house—including those “hidden” ones in the attic or garage.

The “Draught-Busting” Kit:

Reflective Radiator Foils: To bounce heat back into the room rather than the external wall.
Hot Water Cylinder Jacket: (If you have a traditional tank). It should be at least 80mm thick.
Self-Adhesive Weather Strips: For gaps in old window frames and external doors.
Brush Letterbox Seal & Chimney Balloon: To stop “invisible” heat loss.

Person wearing red gloves laying loft insulation

Phase 2: The “Efficiency Weekend” Game Plan

Saturday: Insulation & Draughts

09:00 – The Loft Survey: Measure the depth of existing insulation. If it’s less than 270mm, you’re losing money.
11:00 – Roll Out the Savings: Lay your insulation rolls perpendicular to the joists to create a seamless thermal blanket. Tip: Wear a mask, goggles, and a disposable suit!
14:00 – The “Candle Test”: Walk around your windows and doors with a lit candle. Where the flame flickers, apply your weather strips.
16:00 – Hot Water: Fit the insulating jacket to your water tank and use foam “lagging” pipes to cover any exposed hot water pipes.

Sunday: Smart Tech & Lighting

10:00 – The LED Swap: Go room-to-room and replace every bulb. EPC assessors literally count the percentage of low-energy lighting in your home.
12:00 – Smart Thermostat Install: Most kits are DIY-friendly if you’re replacing an existing wired thermostat. If it requires a “Heat Link” at the boiler, you may need a 1-hour visit from a Sparky.
15:00 – Radiator Refresh: Bleed all radiators to remove trapped air and slip the reflective foils behind any units on external walls.

Pro Tip for UK Reno’s:

Before you spend a penny, check the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) or the Warm Homes Local Grant. In 2026, many UK households (especially those in Council Tax bands A–D) are eligible for completely free loft and cavity wall insulation.

EPC Boost Cost Estimator (2026 DIY Estimates)

Item	Estimated Cost (Low)	Estimated Cost (High)	ERC Impact
Loft Insulation (Top-up)	£150	£400	High (Can jump a full grade)
Smart Thermostat	£120	£250	Medium (Standardizes control)
LED Bulbs (Whole House)	£30	£80	Low/Medium (Easy points)
Cylinder Jacket & Lagging	£25	£45	Medium (Reduces heat loss)
Draught Proofing Kit	£20	£60	Medium (Improves comfort)

TOTAL	£345	£835

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