The property market in 2026 stands at a critical juncture. With October 2026 marking the introduction of the revolutionary Home Energy Model (HEM) calculation methodology and the October 2030 compliance deadline looming for rental properties, chartered surveyors face an unprecedented opportunity to add substantial value to their building survey services.[1][2] Understanding how Building Surveys for EPC Retrofits in 2026: Achieving Compliance and Unlocking Buyer Incentives in Recovering Markets can transform property transactions is essential for professionals seeking to maintain RICS quality standards while meeting the mandatory retrofit drives for energy efficiency.
The transition from the traditional SAP/RdSAP system to the new multi-metric EPC format represents more than a regulatory update—it fundamentally reshapes how property condition assessments must be conducted. Surveyors who integrate comprehensive EPC upgrade assessments into their RICS building surveys will position themselves as indispensable advisors in a market where energy performance directly impacts property values, mortgage availability, and investment returns.
Key Takeaways
✅ October 2026 introduces the Home Energy Model (HEM), replacing current EPC calculations with four distinct performance metrics: Fabric Performance, Heating System, Energy Cost, and Smart Readiness[1][2]
✅ Building surveys must now incorporate detailed retrofit assessments to help buyers understand compliance pathways, investment requirements, and potential property value uplift in recovering markets
✅ New EPC requirements extend to previously exempt properties, including heritage buildings, HMOs, and short-term rentals, creating expanded survey opportunities[1]
✅ Financial incentives and green mortgages make energy-efficient properties more attractive to buyers, with surveyors playing a crucial role in identifying cost-effective retrofit opportunities
✅ The October 2030 compliance deadline for rental properties creates urgency for landlords and investors, positioning comprehensive building surveys as essential risk management tools[2][3]
Understanding the 2026 EPC Transformation and Its Impact on Building Surveys
The Home Energy Model: A Fundamental Shift in Assessment Methodology
The government has characterized the October 2026 implementation timeline as "ambitious," with both old (A–G) and new EPC formats expected to operate alongside each other for several years during the transition period.[2][4] This dual-system environment creates complexity that surveyors must navigate skillfully when advising clients.
The new Home Energy Model (HEM) replaces the single-rating SAP/RdSAP methodology with four distinct performance indicators:
1. Fabric Performance 🏠
This metric measures building envelope efficiency—walls, roof, windows, and floors—independent of heating systems. This change is revolutionary because it directly exposes properties with poor insulation that previously relied on low-carbon heating systems to mask underlying performance issues. For surveyors, this means conducting more detailed assessments of:
- Wall construction and insulation depth
- Roof insulation quality and coverage
- Window glazing specifications and thermal performance
- Floor insulation and thermal bridging
- Air tightness and draught-proofing measures
2. Heating System ♨️
This component rates the efficiency and carbon intensity of the heat source separately from the building fabric. Properties with gas boilers will face significantly different assessments compared to those with heat pumps or other low-carbon heating solutions.
3. Energy Cost 💷
Estimated running costs provide transparency for occupiers regarding affordability. This metric directly impacts buyer decision-making in recovering markets where household budgets remain constrained.
4. Smart Readiness 📱
This forward-looking indicator assesses the building's capacity to integrate with smart meters and flexible energy tariffs, reflecting the government's commitment to grid flexibility and demand management.
Expanded Scope: Previously Exempt Properties Now Require EPCs
The 2026 reforms eliminate several exemptions that previously allowed certain properties to avoid EPC requirements:[1]
| Property Type | Previous Status | 2026 Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage & Listed Buildings | Often exempt | Must produce valid EPC when marketed, sold, or let |
| Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) | Individual room EPCs | Single whole-building EPC required when any room is rented |
| Short-term & Holiday Rentals | Grey area depending on energy bill responsibility | Valid EPC required regardless of who pays utilities |
This expansion creates significant new opportunities for surveyors to provide specialist defect surveys that address the unique challenges of improving energy performance in sensitive buildings.
Timing Requirements: EPCs Now Needed at Marketing Stage
A critical regulatory tightening affects when an EPC must be commissioned. Under the 2026 rules, a valid EPC is required at the point of marketing a property for sale or rent, rather than prior to exchange or completion.[1] This change has profound implications for building survey timing and scope.
Surveyors conducting pre-purchase inspections must now consider:
- Whether the existing EPC reflects current property condition
- If recent alterations invalidate the current certificate
- Whether the EPC was produced under old or new methodology
- How upcoming October 2030 compliance requirements affect the property's rental viability
Building Surveys for EPC Retrofits in 2026: Integrating Energy Performance into RICS Survey Methodology
Aligning Building Surveys with EPC Compliance Pathways
Traditional homebuyer surveys focused primarily on structural integrity, defects, and maintenance requirements. In 2026, comprehensive building surveys must expand to include detailed energy performance assessments that align with RICS quality standards while addressing mandatory retrofit drives.
Essential Components of EPC-Integrated Building Surveys:
Thermal Envelope Assessment 🌡️
Detailed inspection of all building fabric elements with specific attention to:
- External wall construction type and insulation presence
- Roof space insulation depth and condition
- Window frame materials, glazing specifications, and seals
- Floor construction and insulation accessibility
- Thermal bridging at junctions and penetrations
Heating System Evaluation 🔥
Comprehensive assessment of current heating infrastructure and retrofit potential:
- Boiler age, efficiency rating, and remaining lifespan
- Radiator sizing and heat emitter suitability for low-temperature systems
- Hot water cylinder insulation and controls
- Pipework insulation and distribution efficiency
- Feasibility for heat pump installation (electrical capacity, space requirements, noise considerations)
Moisture and Ventilation Analysis 💧
Critical for properties considering fabric improvements, as increased airtightness without adequate ventilation creates condensation risks. This assessment should include damp surveys to establish baseline conditions before retrofit work.
Smart Technology Readiness 📊
Evaluation of existing electrical infrastructure to support:
- Smart meter installation
- Smart thermostats and zoned heating controls
- Electric vehicle charging points
- Solar PV integration potential
- Battery storage feasibility
Creating Retrofit Cost Estimates Within Building Survey Reports
One of the most valuable additions surveyors can provide in 2026 is realistic retrofit cost estimation. Buyers in recovering markets need clear financial projections to make informed decisions about properties requiring energy improvements.
Recommended Cost Estimation Framework:
| Improvement Measure | Typical Cost Range | Fabric Performance Impact | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loft insulation (270mm) | £300-£500 | High | 2-4 years |
| Cavity wall insulation | £1,000-£2,500 | High | 5-8 years |
| External wall insulation | £8,000-£15,000 | Very High | 15-25 years |
| Double glazing replacement | £5,000-£12,000 | Medium-High | 10-15 years |
| Air source heat pump | £8,000-£14,000 | High (heating system) | 10-20 years |
| Solar PV (4kW system) | £5,000-£8,000 | Medium (energy cost) | 8-12 years |
These estimates should be contextualized with available government grants, green mortgage incentives, and projected energy bill savings over 10-20 year timeframes.
Addressing Heritage and Listed Building Challenges
The removal of blanket exemptions for heritage properties creates particular challenges that require specialist surveying expertise. When conducting surveys on listed buildings or properties in conservation areas, surveyors must balance:
Conservation Requirements vs. Energy Performance:
- Identifying "breathable" insulation solutions compatible with traditional construction
- Assessing secondary glazing options that preserve historic window character
- Evaluating renewable heating systems with minimal visual impact
- Documenting existing heritage features that limit retrofit options
Surveyors should provide clear guidance on obtaining listed building consent for energy improvements and recommend engagement with conservation officers early in the planning process.
Unlocking Buyer Incentives Through Strategic Building Survey Recommendations
Green Mortgages and Preferential Lending Products
The 2026 property market features an expanding range of green mortgage products that reward energy-efficient properties with preferential interest rates, higher loan-to-value ratios, and cashback incentives for retrofit work. Building surveys that clearly identify a property's current EPC rating and potential for improvement enable buyers to:
Access Better Mortgage Terms 💰
Lenders increasingly offer:
- Interest rate reductions of 0.1-0.5% for properties rated EPC B or above
- Additional borrowing capacity (typically £5,000-£25,000) specifically for energy improvements
- Cashback payments upon completion of certified retrofit work
- Extended mortgage terms for properties meeting high efficiency standards
Demonstrate Investment Viability
Comprehensive building surveys that include retrofit pathways help buyers demonstrate to lenders that:
- The property can achieve target EPC ratings within reasonable investment
- Planned improvements will enhance property value beyond retrofit costs
- Energy bill savings will improve household affordability metrics
Government Grants and Financial Support Schemes
While specific grant schemes evolve, the principle of public funding for energy efficiency improvements remains central to government policy in 2026. Building surveys should identify eligibility for:
National Retrofit Programs
Current and anticipated schemes include:
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants (£5,000-£7,500 for heat pump installations)
- Local authority retrofit programs with means-tested support
- Social housing decarbonization funding for qualifying properties
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding for low-income households
Tax Incentives for Landlords
The October 2030 compliance deadline creates urgency for rental property improvements.[2][3] Surveyors should highlight:
- Capital allowances for energy-saving equipment
- Potential stamp duty reliefs for energy-efficient property purchases
- Enhanced capital gains tax treatment for properties meeting efficiency standards
Property Value Uplift: Quantifying the EPC Premium
Research consistently demonstrates that energy-efficient properties command price premiums in the market. Building surveys in 2026 should quantify this value uplift to help buyers understand the investment case for retrofit work.
Documented EPC Value Premiums:
📈 Properties rated EPC A or B typically achieve 5-15% higher sale prices compared to identical properties rated D or below
📈 Each EPC band improvement correlates with approximately 2-3% property value increase in most market segments
📈 Rental properties meeting 2030 compliance standards demonstrate stronger tenant demand and reduced void periods
Surveyors providing structural surveys should include market analysis showing comparable property values at different EPC ratings to contextualize retrofit investment recommendations.
Building Surveys for EPC Retrofits in 2026: Practical Implementation for Surveyors
Developing EPC-Integrated Survey Templates and Reporting Frameworks
To deliver consistent, high-quality EPC retrofit assessments within building surveys, firms should develop standardized templates that ensure comprehensive coverage while maintaining RICS compliance.
Recommended Report Structure:
Section 1: Executive Summary
- Current EPC rating and methodology (SAP/RdSAP vs. HEM)
- Target EPC rating for compliance/market competitiveness
- Total estimated retrofit investment required
- Projected property value uplift
- Available financial incentives summary
Section 2: Fabric Performance Detailed Assessment
- Wall construction analysis with thermal performance estimates
- Roof and loft insulation evaluation
- Window and door thermal efficiency assessment
- Floor insulation opportunities
- Thermal bridging and air leakage identification
Section 3: Heating and Hot Water Systems
- Current system efficiency rating
- Remaining operational lifespan
- Suitability for low-temperature heating systems
- Heat pump feasibility assessment
- Renewable heating options analysis
Section 4: Prioritized Retrofit Recommendations
- Quick wins (low cost, high impact improvements)
- Medium-term upgrades (moderate investment, significant performance gains)
- Long-term strategic improvements (major investment, comprehensive performance transformation)
- Phased implementation timeline aligned with budget constraints
Section 5: Financial Analysis
- Detailed cost estimates for each improvement measure
- Government grant eligibility assessment
- Green mortgage product recommendations
- Energy bill savings projections
- Return on investment calculations
- Net present value analysis over 20-year period
Training and Competency Development for Surveyors
The integration of energy performance assessment into building surveys requires enhanced technical knowledge. Surveying firms should invest in:
Technical Training Programs 📚
- Building physics fundamentals (heat transfer, thermal bridging, moisture dynamics)
- Retrofit design principles and sequencing
- Low-carbon heating technologies and installation requirements
- Building regulations Part L compliance
- Heritage building retrofit techniques
Technology and Equipment Investment 🔧
- Thermal imaging cameras for heat loss visualization
- Moisture meters for pre-retrofit baseline assessment
- Laser distance measuring for accurate floor area calculations
- Digital reporting platforms with integrated cost databases
Professional Accreditation
- Retrofit Coordinator certification
- Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) qualification
- TrustMark registered retrofit advisor status
- RICS Building Surveying pathway continuing professional development
Collaboration with Retrofit Specialists and Energy Assessors
While building surveyors provide comprehensive property condition assessments, effective EPC retrofit planning often requires collaboration with specialists. Establishing referral networks with:
Accredited Energy Assessors
For producing compliant EPCs under the new HEM methodology and validating retrofit projections
Retrofit Coordinators
For detailed whole-house retrofit design, particularly for complex projects involving multiple improvement measures
Specialist Contractors
Including heat pump installers, external wall insulation specialists, and heritage building retrofit experts
Structural Engineers
For properties requiring structural engineering assessments before major fabric improvements
This collaborative approach ensures clients receive comprehensive support throughout the retrofit journey while maintaining clear professional boundaries and liability frameworks.
Navigating the Transition Period: Dual EPC Systems and Market Uncertainty
Managing Client Expectations During the SAP to HEM Transition
The government's acknowledgment that both old and new EPC formats will operate alongside each other for several years creates complexity for property transactions.[2][4] Surveyors must help clients understand:
Rating Comparability Challenges ⚖️
A property rated EPC C under the old SAP methodology may achieve a different rating under the new HEM system due to:
- Separate fabric performance scoring that may reveal previously masked deficiencies
- Different weighting of heating system carbon intensity
- New smart readiness metrics that didn't exist in the old system
Strategic Timing Considerations
Clients may benefit from advice on:
- Whether to commission a new HEM-based EPC before marketing a property
- If retrofit work should be completed before or after the October 2026 transition
- How to position properties in the market during the dual-system period
Documentation and Compliance
Surveyors should verify:
- Which EPC methodology was used for the current certificate
- Whether the certificate remains valid (10-year lifespan)
- If recent alterations require a new assessment
- Compliance with the marketing-stage EPC requirement[1]
Addressing Regional Market Variations in EPC Compliance
Property markets across the UK demonstrate significant regional variation in EPC performance, retrofit costs, and buyer priorities. Building surveys should be contextualized to local market conditions:
Urban vs. Rural Considerations
- Urban properties: Often face space constraints for heat pump external units and limited roof area for solar PV
- Rural properties: May lack mains gas connection, making heat pumps more viable but potentially requiring electrical infrastructure upgrades
- Off-grid properties: Face particular challenges with heating system decarbonization and may benefit from hybrid solutions
Regional Cost Variations
Retrofit costs vary significantly by location:
- London and Southeast: 20-40% premium on installation costs
- Northern regions: More competitive pricing but potentially lower property value uplift
- Scotland and Wales: Different regulatory frameworks and grant availability
Surveyors should reference local chartered surveyors with regional expertise when providing cost estimates and market value projections.
Rental Property Compliance: The October 2030 Deadline
The October 2030 compliance deadline for privately rented properties to meet minimum energy efficiency standards creates particular urgency for landlord clients.[2][3] Building surveys for investment properties should specifically address:
Compliance Risk Assessment ⚠️
- Current EPC rating and gap to minimum standard
- Estimated investment required to achieve compliance
- Properties at risk of becoming unlettable without improvements
- Timeline for completing retrofit work before the deadline
Investment vs. Divestment Analysis
For landlords with marginal properties, surveys should provide data supporting:
- Retrofit investment costs vs. current property value
- Projected rental yield post-improvement
- Alternative investment opportunities
- Tax implications of property disposal vs. retention
Portfolio Prioritization
Landlords with multiple properties benefit from surveys that rank properties by:
- Ease of achieving compliance (quick wins vs. complex retrofits)
- Current rental demand and tenant quality
- Long-term capital appreciation potential
- Available grant funding and financial incentives
Case Studies: Building Surveys for EPC Retrofits in Action
Case Study 1: Victorian Terrace Transformation
Property Profile:
- 3-bedroom mid-terrace Victorian house
- Solid brick walls (no cavity)
- Original sash windows
- Gas central heating (15-year-old boiler)
- Current EPC rating: E (48 points)
Survey Findings:
The comprehensive building survey identified:
- No loft insulation present
- Solid walls with no insulation
- Single-glazed sash windows in poor condition
- Suspended timber ground floor with no insulation
- Aging boiler requiring replacement within 3-5 years
Retrofit Recommendations:
-
Immediate priorities (£2,500-£3,000):
- Loft insulation to 270mm depth
- Draught-proofing and basic air sealing
- Heating controls upgrade
-
Medium-term improvements (£8,000-£12,000):
- Internal wall insulation to front and rear walls
- Secondary glazing to preserve sash window character
- Floor insulation from below (accessible cellar)
-
Long-term transformation (£10,000-£15,000):
- Air source heat pump installation
- Radiator upgrades for low-temperature operation
- Solar PV system (3kW capacity)
Projected Outcome:
- Target EPC rating: B (82 points)
- Total investment: £20,500-£30,000
- Available grants: £5,000 (Boiler Upgrade Scheme)
- Net investment: £15,500-£25,000
- Projected property value uplift: £25,000-£40,000
- Annual energy bill savings: £800-£1,200
Case Study 2: Listed Georgian Property
Property Profile:
- Grade II listed Georgian townhouse
- 4 bedrooms across 3 floors
- Original features including windows and fireplaces
- Oil-fired central heating
- Current EPC rating: F (32 points)
- Previously exempt from EPC requirements
Survey Findings:
The specialist heritage building survey identified:
- Minimal loft insulation (50mm)
- Solid stone walls with lime plaster
- Original single-glazed sash windows (listed feature)
- No floor insulation
- Inefficient oil boiler (20+ years old)
- Significant heat loss through uninsulated roof
Retrofit Recommendations (Conservation-Compliant):
-
Approved improvements (£15,000-£20,000):
- Breathable natural fiber loft insulation (300mm)
- Internal lime-based insulation to non-principal elevations
- Secondary glazing with slim profiles
- Underfloor insulation using breathable materials
-
Heating system options (£12,000-£18,000):
- Air source heat pump with internal installation to minimize external visual impact
- Hybrid system combining heat pump with retained oil boiler for peak demand
- Biomass boiler (subject to local air quality regulations)
-
Renewable energy (£6,000-£8,000):
- Solar PV on non-visible rear roof slope
- Solar thermal for hot water heating
Projected Outcome:
- Target EPC rating: D (58 points) – realistic given conservation constraints
- Total investment: £33,000-£46,000
- Conservation officer consultation: Essential
- Listed building consent: Required for external works
- Projected property value uplift: £40,000-£60,000 (premium for energy-efficient heritage property)
Case Study 3: New-Build Investment Property
Property Profile:
- 2-bedroom apartment in recent development (2018)
- Current EPC rating: B (84 points)
- Gas central heating with modern condensing boiler
- Double glazing throughout
- Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR)
Survey Findings:
Despite recent construction, the survey identified opportunities for enhancement:
- Basic insulation meeting 2018 Building Regulations but not optimal
- Gas heating system incompatible with long-term decarbonization goals
- No solar PV despite suitable roof orientation
- Limited smart home integration
Retrofit Recommendations for Future-Proofing:
-
Immediate enhancements (£3,000-£5,000):
- Smart heating controls and zoning
- Smart meter and home energy monitoring system
- LED lighting throughout (if not already installed)
-
Strategic upgrades (£10,000-£14,000):
- Air source heat pump replacement of gas boiler
- Solar PV installation (apartment share of communal roof)
- Electric vehicle charging point installation
Projected Outcome:
- Target EPC rating: A (92+ points)
- Total investment: £13,000-£19,000
- Compliance security: Well ahead of 2030 requirements
- Rental premium: 8-12% above comparable properties
- Tenant appeal: Significantly enhanced for environmentally conscious renters
Overcoming Common Challenges in EPC Retrofit Surveys
Technical Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Concealed Construction Details
Many older properties have hidden structural elements that affect retrofit planning.
Solution:
- Use thermal imaging to identify construction types without invasive investigation
- Reference historical building records and local construction patterns
- Recommend targeted opening-up works for critical areas before retrofit design
- Collaborate with specialist defect surveyors for complex cases
Challenge 2: Moisture Risk from Increased Airtightness
Improving building fabric without adequate ventilation creates condensation and mold risks.
Solution:
- Conduct baseline damp surveys before retrofit recommendations
- Always include ventilation improvements alongside insulation measures
- Recommend whole-house ventilation systems (MVHR) for comprehensive retrofits
- Educate clients on post-retrofit occupant behavior changes
Challenge 3: Electrical Capacity for Heat Pumps
Many properties lack electrical infrastructure to support heat pump installation.
Solution:
- Include electrical system assessment in building surveys
- Estimate costs for consumer unit upgrades and supply reinforcement
- Consider hybrid heating systems as transitional solutions
- Coordinate with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) for grid connection feasibility
Financial and Market Challenges
Challenge 4: Retrofit Costs Exceeding Property Value Uplift
Some properties, particularly in lower-value markets, face negative return on retrofit investment.
Solution:
- Provide transparent cost-benefit analysis showing energy bill savings alongside capital value impact
- Identify grant funding and green mortgage products to improve financial viability
- Recommend phased improvement approaches prioritizing cost-effective measures
- Consider non-financial benefits (comfort, health, future-proofing) in advice
Challenge 5: Buyer Uncertainty About New EPC Methodology
The transition to HEM creates confusion about rating comparability and compliance requirements.
Solution:
- Provide clear explanations of old vs. new EPC systems in survey reports
- Use visual aids and infographics to illustrate rating differences
- Reference official government guidance on transition arrangements[1][2]
- Offer to coordinate with accredited energy assessors for definitive HEM ratings
Future-Proofing Building Surveys: Preparing for Post-2030 Requirements
Anticipating Further Regulatory Tightening
While October 2030 represents the current compliance deadline for rental properties, surveyors should anticipate further regulatory tightening beyond this date.[2][3] Building surveys in 2026 should consider:
Potential Future Requirements:
- Minimum EPC C standard for all properties by 2035
- Phased elimination of fossil fuel heating systems
- Mandatory renewable energy generation for new installations
- Enhanced standards for new-build properties
- Carbon taxation on inefficient properties
Survey Recommendations Should:
- Prioritize retrofit measures with longest-term viability
- Avoid "locking in" fossil fuel infrastructure
- Consider whole-life carbon alongside operational energy
- Recommend over-specification where financially viable to avoid repeated retrofit cycles
Emerging Technologies and Assessment Methods
The building survey profession continues to evolve with new technologies that enhance EPC retrofit assessment:
Thermal Imaging Advancements 📸
High-resolution thermal cameras now provide detailed heat loss visualization, enabling:
- Precise identification of thermal bridging
- Air leakage detection through blower door testing
- Insulation defect identification
- Pre and post-retrofit performance verification
Digital Twin Technology 💻
3D building modeling combined with energy simulation enables:
- Virtual retrofit scenario testing
- Accurate cost-benefit analysis of improvement combinations
- Client visualization of proposed improvements
- Integration with BIM for new-build and major renovation projects
AI-Powered Retrofit Optimization 🤖
Machine learning algorithms can:
- Analyze thousands of retrofit scenarios to identify optimal improvement combinations
- Predict actual (vs. theoretical) energy performance based on occupant behavior patterns
- Recommend personalized retrofit pathways based on budget constraints and priorities
- Continuously update recommendations as technology costs and grant availability evolve
Conclusion: Building Surveys as Essential Tools for EPC Compliance and Market Success
The transformation of Energy Performance Certificates in 2026 represents a fundamental shift in how property condition and value are assessed in the UK market. Building Surveys for EPC Retrofits in 2026: Achieving Compliance and Unlocking Buyer Incentives in Recovering Markets is not merely a regulatory compliance exercise—it is a strategic opportunity for chartered surveyors to deliver exceptional value to clients navigating complex property decisions.
The introduction of the Home Energy Model in October 2026, the expansion of EPC requirements to previously exempt properties, and the October 2030 compliance deadline for rental properties create an environment where comprehensive building surveys integrated with retrofit assessments become essential rather than optional.[1][2][3]
Key Success Factors for Surveyors
✅ Technical Competency: Invest in training, equipment, and accreditation to deliver credible energy performance assessments alongside traditional building surveys
✅ Financial Literacy: Understand green mortgage products, government grants, and retrofit financing options to provide holistic advice
✅ Market Awareness: Stay informed about regional variations in retrofit costs, property value premiums, and buyer/tenant preferences
✅ Collaborative Networks: Build relationships with energy assessors, retrofit coordinators, and specialist contractors to support clients throughout the improvement journey
✅ Clear Communication: Translate complex technical and regulatory information into accessible guidance that empowers client decision-making
Actionable Next Steps
For Surveying Firms:
- Update survey templates to incorporate comprehensive EPC retrofit assessment sections
- Invest in thermal imaging equipment and training for all building surveyors
- Develop referral partnerships with accredited energy assessors and retrofit coordinators
- Create cost databases for common retrofit measures in your operating regions
- Establish CPD programs focused on building physics, low-carbon heating, and retrofit design
For Individual Surveyors:
- Pursue Domestic Energy Assessor qualification to understand EPC methodology from the inside
- Attend retrofit training courses covering fabric-first approaches and low-carbon heating
- Study heritage building retrofit techniques to serve the expanded market of listed properties
- Build knowledge of financial products including green mortgages and government grants
- Engage with RICS guidance on sustainability and energy performance in building surveys
For Property Buyers and Investors:
- Commission comprehensive building surveys that include detailed retrofit assessments, not just basic condition reports—consider choosing the right property survey for your needs
- Request clear cost-benefit analysis showing retrofit investment returns over 10-20 year periods
- Explore green mortgage products before finalizing property purchase decisions
- Consider properties requiring improvement as potential value opportunities in recovering markets
- Plan retrofit work strategically using phased approaches that align with budget availability
The convergence of regulatory requirements, financial incentives, and market preferences creates a unique moment in the UK property sector. Surveyors who embrace the integration of energy performance assessment into building surveys will not only ensure RICS compliance and professional excellence—they will position themselves as indispensable advisors in a market where energy efficiency increasingly determines property value, marketability, and long-term viability.
The journey toward a decarbonized built environment presents challenges, but for surveyors equipped with the right knowledge, tools, and collaborative networks, it represents an unprecedented opportunity to add substantial value to every property transaction. The future of building surveying is here, and it is fundamentally intertwined with energy performance, retrofit planning, and sustainable property investment.
References
[1] 2026 Epc Reform Technical Update – https://buildingenergyexperts.co.uk/resources/2026-epc-reform-technical-update/
[2] Epcs Are Changing What We Know So Far – https://www.vorgroup.co.uk/epcs-are-changing-what-we-know-so-far/
[3] New Epc Rules – https://theindependentlandlord.com/new-epc-rules/
[4] Epc Reform What We Know – https://energy-trust.co.uk/epc-reform-what-we-know/
[5] Building Surveys For Energy Performance Certificates In 2026 Navigating Epc Upgrades And Retrofit Mandates For Uk Buyers – https://nottinghillsurveyors.com/blog/building-surveys-for-energy-performance-certificates-in-2026-navigating-epc-upgrades-and-retrofit-mandates-for-uk-buyers
[8] Epc Ratings How Are They Changing In 2026 And What Does That Mean For Home Heating – https://ecostrad.com/blog/epc-ratings-how-are-they-changing-in-2026-and-what-does-that-mean-for-home-heating/
[9] New Epc Regulations For Landlords In 2026 – https://drelectrical.com/new-epc-regulations-for-landlords-in-2026/
