Retrofitting myths: Don’t let them hold you back

Retrofitting has an incredibly important role to play in building a more sustainable future. After all, ensuring that our homes are more energy-efficient is crucial for both our wallets and the planet.

However, like a lot of technologies designed to improve our lives, there are a fair share of misconceptions that can leave homeowners feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Let’s debunk some common retrofitting myths and shed light on why upgrading your home can be a very smart move.

New to retrofitting? We recommend reading our introduction to retrofitting to get a basic understanding before we begin.

Myth #1: Retrofitting is always expensive

This is perhaps the biggest myth that acts as a barrier for many homeowners. Though some extensive retrofits can be costly, the truth is that you can start small.

While it’s true that, generally, expensive retrofitting measures tend to save more energy and carbon than low-cost measures, simple changes, like swapping out old light bulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs, can make a difference and cost as little as £5.

One of the best ways to approach retrofitting is to take a cost-optimised approach that allows you to focus on low-cost quick wins first. In doing so, you’ll begin to see the benefit of your upgrades from the beginning without blowing your budget.

By using a tool like Atom’s Retrofit Explorer, you can easily identify these opportunities to make improvements and get the essential information about your EPC rating, including how much a retrofit may cost and what annual energy savings you could make.

By following this strategic approach, you may be able to elevate your home to an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C for around £1,500–£5,000, which is much less than many people assume.

Myth #2: You won’t see immediate savings

This isn’t true. As soon as your retrofit is in place and functional, it will start to change things for the better. Savings may not be as obvious in the first few months, depending on what upgrades you’ve made, but even small changes build up over time.

For instance, the average energy bill for an EPC D-rated three-bed terraced home in 2024 is £2,307 per year (Rightmove). The same type of property with an EPC-C rating, has an average bill of £1,657. In this example, carrying out retrofits to lift your home from a D to a C could help you save £650 within the first 12 months after the changes.

Obviously, the retrofit enhancements required to lift your home to a better EPC rating may vary depending on what needs to be improved. You can get a good idea of the options, costs and savings available by using our Retrofit Explorer tool.

Myth #3: Retrofitting won’t add value to my home

This myth couldn’t be more wrong! With energy prices playing a big part in a cost of living crisis, energy-efficient homes are becoming increasingly desirable for buyers looking for properties that have cheaper running costs.

Around 77% of buyers consider energy efficiency and low running costs to be a key factor in choosing a home, with this being ranked as one of the most desirable features in the JJL Home Buyers and Tenants Survey 2024. And, the same survey found that 70% of buyers would be willing to pay a premium for an energy efficient home.

A 30-month study of 15 properties carried out by the National Energy Foundation found that homes benefitted from an average asking price uplift of £9,667. This suggests that the initial investment you make in energy efficiency upgrades can translate to a significant financial return when you decide to sell.

Myth #4: Retrofitting is only about saving money

While financial benefits are undeniable, retrofitting also significantly impacts your health and wellbeing. A study from BRE Group has found a direct link between cold, damp homes and serious health conditions like heart disease, asthma, and depression. They put a significant strain on the NHS, costing around £1.4 billion annually.

By improving your home’s energy efficiency, you’re not just saving money; you’re creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment. A well-insulated and ventilated home stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer, reducing damp and mould, and, ultimately, improving your quality of life.

Myth #5: Retrofitting your home means life disruption

Understandably, you might worry about the disruption that retrofitting might cause. It’s true that some enhancements involve more work than others. However, the level of disruption varies greatly depending on the specific measures you choose.

A small job like fitting new LED bulbs is obviously a five minute task you can do yourself. But even some more extensive changes are not incredibly disruptive, like installing loft insulation. It’s fairly quick and straightforward, with loft access required and room for rolls of insulation to be carried up to the space.

On the other hand, some projects are more involved, so there is an element of truth to this myth. Something like fitting external wall insulation can take several weeks and require scaffolding. However, while it might be messy, the disruption is largely contained to the exterior of your property.

Ultimately, the level of disruption depends on factors like the type of retrofit, the installation time, and your household’s circumstances. If you anticipate significant disruption, consider phasing the work or temporarily relocating while it’s underway. This is especially important for families with young children, pets, or individuals with health or mobility concerns.

Ready to retrofit?

Retrofitting your home is a step towards a more sustainable and comfortable future. Don’t let myths and misconceptions hold you back. Start small, prioritise, and enjoy the benefits of a retrofitting for a healthier, more energy efficient and valuable home.

We recommend starting with our Retrofit Explorer tool, which provides personalised insights into your EPC rating and reveals potential improvements and their costs.