Renovating your home can be one of the most exciting and rewarding projects you take on—but are you considering the essential?

If your renovation doesn’t factor in energy efficiency and sustainability, you are:

• leaving money on the table;
• contributing to a more significant problem that we no longer ignore.

Here’s the reality: UK homes are responsible for a whopping 24.6% of greenhouse gas emissions, the largest single contributor to the country’s total (Uk Office for National Statistics, 2024). Most of this comes from heating poorly insulated homes and running inefficient systems.

With new regulations aimed at reducing emissions already in place, it’s not just unwise to ignore sustainable practices—it’s financially short-sighted.

Why it matters

Let’s start with some context. Energy use in UK homes accounts for about 14% of the nation’s emissions, with heating alone making up 63% of that figure (House of Lords Library, Home insulation and the net zero target, 2020). That’s a staggering amount of waste coming from homes that are leaking energy through poorly insulated walls, roofs, and windows.

Now imagine if we tackled that inefficiency: upgrading just one area of your home, like swapping outdated bulbs for LED lighting, could reduce your CO₂ emissions by around 65kg annually. That’s like cutting out a 220-mile drive from your carbon footprint every year.

The good news? These numbers aren’t just theoretical. Every step you take to make your home more energy efficient—from better insulation to choosing sustainable materials—has a real, tangible impact.

The financial reality

Beyond environmental responsibility, there’s a financial imperative to renovate sustainably. Upcoming regulations are expected to raise the minimum energy efficiency standards for homes, particularly if you’re renting or planning to sell in the future.

Properties with poor EPC ratings will lose value, struggle to attract buyers, and face higher running costs. By future-proofing your home now, you’re not just protecting the planet; you’re protecting your investment.

So, what can you do?

If you’re ready to stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution, here’s a list of simple actions you can take today:

1. Hire a retrofit coordinator – These professionals specialise in sustainable renovation and can guide you through the process, ensuring your project meets standards like PAS 2035.
2. Book an EPC assessment – Understanding your home’s current energy performance is the first step to identifying areas for improvement.
3. Upgrade your insulation – Focus on the loft, walls, and floors to reduce heat loss.
4. Seal draughts – Use draught-proofing strips on windows and doors to prevent unnecessary heat loss.
5. Consider low-energy glass – Replace single-glazed windows with energy-efficient alternatives.
6. Switch to LED lighting – A small but impactful change that reduces energy use and emissions.
7. Install a smart thermostat – These devices help optimise your heating, cutting energy waste.
8. Choose sustainable materials – Opt for reclaimed or eco-friendly options when replacing floors, cabinets, or fixtures.
9. Explore renewable energy – Solar panels, heat pumps, or biomass boilers can drastically cut your home’s reliance on fossil fuels.

Final thoughts

Sustainability isn’t just about “going green”; it’s about making smarter choices for your home, wallet, and the planet. Every homeowner has the responsibility—and the opportunity—to make a difference.

Poorly insulated, energy-leaking homes are a big part of the UK’s emissions problem, but they can also be part of the solution.

So, as you plan your renovation, ask yourself: Are you building a home for today or the future? With knowledge and support, you can create a home that works harder, costs less, and makes a positive impact. The time to act is now.