Tackling EPC confusion: how installers can help homeowners make informed energy efficiency upgrades

Tackling EPC confusion

Confusion around EPC ratings means homeowners in the UK are delaying making energy efficiency improvements.

A recently reported study from UK price comparison service Uswitch, surveyed 1,500 homeowners and found that 43% are delaying or considering delaying home improvements, with over a third unsure what an EPC rating actually includes.

Under current guidelines, an EPC rating is based on how much energy a property uses per square metre and how much energy it loses. The findings from USwitch, however, show that 36% of respondents mistakenly believe energy costs are factored into an EPC rating, 16% believe an EPC rating accounts for the number of bedrooms a property has, while 15% believe it includes the value of the property, and 6% say it includes the location of the property.

Additionally, nearly half (46%) don’t fully understand how an EPC rating affects energy bills.

This confusion around energy efficiency ratings and home performance could be discouraging homeowners from investing in upgrades such as insulation and renewable energy installations, thereby saddling them with higher energy consumption, higher bills and less comfortable homes.

The role of installers

At Myson, we recognise the critical role installers play in helping homeowners understand EPC ratings. Often, our installer colleagues are the first people a consumer will approach to understand how taking action on energy efficiency can help make their homes more resilient and cost-effective.

We are calling on installer partners to reframe the conversation, and we’re ready to support all installers with the products and expertise they need to boost consumer knowledge and build trust with customers.

1. Explain what the EPC actually covers: Clarify that the EPC is based on how much energy a property uses and loses per square metre, and that the score assumes standard use, not personal habits. If a customer doesn’t have their EPC certificate, help them find it via the Government EPC Register.

2. Give the ratings meaning: Explain that the scores relate to efficiency. A higher score means better efficiency, which means lower bills. Make the connection between the EPC’s current score and potential rating in terms of feasible improvements such as insulation, modern heating systems or renewables.

3. Provide practical value: Cost will be the key consideration for homeowners, so it’s important to give realistic estimates and timelines for EPC recommendations.

4. Focus on the outcome: Make it clear that improving an EPC rating isn’t just about getting a ‘good grade’ as a homeowner. It has a tangible outcome in terms of home comfort, lower bills and long-term resilience as energy markets become more unpredictable.

5. Be solutions-orientated: A positive attitude and can-do approach is vital for helping homeowners make confident and informed decisions.

Supporting installers and homeowners

EPCs can be difficult for homeowners to navigate, but installers have an opportunity to make the conversation more practical and accessible. By focusing on what the rating means, what improvements are realistic, and what benefits those improvements can deliver, installers can help customers make confident decisions about their homes.

At Myson, we support installers with the products, expertise and technical knowledge they need to help homeowners take the nest step towards more efficient homes.