When it comes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), not all homes are assessed equally. Property type plays a major role in determining your EPC rating, and one of the biggest contrasts is between flats and detached houses. Many landlords and homeowners are surprised to find that flats often achieve higher ratings with fewer upgrades, while detached homes can struggle despite significant investment.

This article explains why EPC scores vary between these property types, what factors drive the differences, and how you can optimise your rating.

Why Flats Often Outperform Detached Homes on EPC Ratings

1. Shared Heat Retention
   Flats benefit from being surrounded by other units. Mid-floor flats, in particular, lose far less heat because they share walls, floors, and ceilings with heated spaces. Detached homes, on the other hand, have exposed walls on all sides, which increases heat loss.

2. Smaller External Surface Area
   The more external wall and roof space a property has, the greater the potential for heat loss. Flats have compact envelopes compared to detached homes, making them more energy efficient by design.

3. Modern Building Standards
   Many flats, especially in new developments, are built to recent energy regulations. Detached houses may be older and built with less insulation or outdated construction methods.

👉 For more on how EPCs are assessed, see our About Us page.

Challenges Detached Homes Face in EPC Assessments

• Greater Exposure to Heat Loss – More walls, roofs, and windows mean more energy escapes.

• Older Heating Systems – Many detached properties rely on legacy boilers or oil heating.

• Loft and Roof Issues – Large roof spaces in detached homes require thorough insulation to meet EPC expectations.

• Lighting and Controls – Larger spaces often use more lighting, and without modern controls, this impacts scores.

👉 If you’re planning improvements, check our Residential EPC service for tailored advice.

How EPC Methodology Accounts for Property Types

EPC software considers:

• Building fabric (walls, roofs, floors, insulation levels).

• Heating systems and controls.

• Glazing performance.

• Size and shape of the property.

Because of these factors, a mid-floor flat in a modern block may achieve a “B” rating with little effort, while a detached Victorian house might struggle to reach a “D” without major upgrades.

Improving EPC Ratings in Different Property Types

For Flats

• Install energy-efficient lighting.

• Upgrade heating controls (especially in electric-heated flats).

• Check for draught-proofing around windows and doors.

For Detached Homes

• Invest in high-quality loft and cavity wall insulation.

• Replace old boilers with modern condensing models.

• Fit double or triple glazing where possible.

• Consider renewable energy options such as solar PV.

👉 For urgent cases, our Same-Day EPC service ensures compliance without delays.

EPC Costs and Compliance Made Easy

At Urgent EPC, we provide straightforward services for all property types:

• Clear pricing plans starting from £59.

• Rapid turnaround for urgent sales or rentals.

• Guidance tailored to whether you own a flat, a terraced home, or a large detached property.

👉 Contact us via our Contact Us page for expert advice.

Final Thoughts

EPC scores are not just about insulation and boilers — property type makes a huge difference. Flats naturally score higher due to shared heat retention, while detached homes face more challenges but also more opportunities for impactful upgrades. Understanding these variations ensures property owners can make smart decisions that improve efficiency, cut bills, and boost long-term property value.