If you are a landlord, you have probably heard plenty about EPC ratings lately. The government aims to increase the number of rental homes to achieve an EPC rating of C or above, but the reality is that most are not yet there. Around 42 per cent of rental properties are below EPC C, and over half of all UK houses are rated D or worse.
That means many landlords could soon be rushing to make upgrades at the same time, competing for contractors, paying higher prices, and losing valuable rental income in the process.
The good news is that with a little planning and the right support, you can stay ahead of the curve, keep your income steady, and make smart upgrades that protect both your property and your profits.
Related: EPC Regulations for Landlords. What are the changes that are proposed?
Why acting early matters
EPC ratings are no longer just about compliance. They are now part of how tenants choose homes and how lenders assess value. A higher rating makes your property more appealing, more efficient, and often more valuable.
Leaving improvements to the last minute can cause real headaches. If everyone waits until it is mandatory, demand for contractors will soar, prices will climb, and materials could become harder to find. Acting early gives you time to plan calmly, spread costs, and make choices that actually add value rather than just ticking boxes.
Guaranteed Rent provides an important safety net throughout this process. It protects your income even during arrears or natural voids, so you can invest in upgrades without worrying about cash flow. It allows you to focus on improving your property rather than stressing about short-term losses.
Planning upgrades without disrupting tenants or income
Timing upgrades is often the hardest part. You do not want to disrupt tenants or leave your property empty for weeks. The trick is to plan around tenancy cycles and routine maintenance.
For example, you can carry out EPC improvements between tenancies or combine them with other maintenance jobs such as boiler servicing or redecorating. That way, you reduce disruption and avoid multiple visits from different trades.
Another smart move is to spread the work over time. Start with smaller, affordable improvements now and save the bigger projects for later. Guaranteed Rent keeps your income steady in the background, so even if your property is temporarily vacant for planned works, your payments keep coming in.
It is all about taking the stress out of scheduling so you can focus on the results.
Related: Landlords Take Steps to Meet EPC Targets
High-impact upgrades that make a real difference
Not every upgrade gives the same return. Some improvements deliver big EPC gains quickly, while others give smaller boosts but cost very little.
Here are some of the biggest EPC point winners:
New condensing boiler: around 12.9 points
Roof insulation: around 11.1 points
These are higher-cost projects, but they make a major difference to your EPC rating and your property’s long-term value.
Then there are the quick wins, smaller, cheaper improvements that add up fast.
Hot water cylinder jacket: costs just a few pounds and can add around 1–3 EPC points
Draughtproofing: costs £20–£25 and typically improves ratings by 1–2 points
Doing a mix of both approaches is ideal. Quick fixes give you a fast confidence boost, while bigger projects move you firmly toward full EPC compliance. The key is progress, taking steady steps now instead of waiting until it becomes urgent.
How Northwood helps landlords manage upgrades smoothly
Coordinating upgrades can be tricky when you are juggling multiple trades and trying to keep tenants happy. That is where Northwood’s management service comes in.
We work with trusted local contractors who understand what is required to lift EPC ratings efficiently. Whether you are upgrading insulation, installing a new boiler, or improving ventilation, we can handle the scheduling, communication, and paperwork for you.
And because we offer Guaranteed Rent, you never have to worry about your income stopping while work is being completed. You get rent paid every month, no matter what is happening in the background. That means less stress, smoother projects, and a lot more peace of mind.
Making smart moves for the future
Improving your EPC rating is about more than meeting regulations; it is about protecting your property’s long-term value. Homes with higher ratings rent faster, attract better tenants, and are cheaper to run.
By acting early, you can plan upgrades on your terms, avoid inflated costs, and stay ahead of new standards. With Northwood support, EPC improvements become simple and stress-free. You get expert contractor coordination, a steady income through Guaranteed Rent, and a clear path to compliance.
Think of it as an investment in your property’s future, one that adds value, keeps tenants happy, and gives you peace of mind every step of the way. Contact your local Northwood office today to start planning your EPC upgrades with expert support and guaranteed rent continuity.
