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A few observations.
The great thing about those kind of properties are they are a box that is very easy to remodel inside if you see fit.
Re the heating you will either need to fit Quantum storage heaters which are a massive improvement over the old tech as they do not leak heat and are run by a timer/computer which charges up based on you being ‘in all day’ or ‘out all day’ and the ambient temperature. The heat is then released when you want it with a low speed fan. I fitted them in my old flat and the bills stayed the same but I was warm when I wanted to be instead of the flat being like in an oven in the morning but freezing in the evening as all the heat had leaked out. Not sure you can even buy old style heaters as you have to fit Euro10 compliant ones now.
Looking at the cladding I would imagine there is just a small amount of insulation behind and possibly just a single skin of brick or even just stud work, if it was mine I would insulate internally and get the best glazing I could afford (triple or at least Low-E ) at least you are not having to deal with moisture transfer like a Victorian property so more insulation options for the panels below the glazing.
Having a floor below and neighbours means it’s always 13° plus the other side of those walls which helps as less external walls and freezing temps.
Would have a poke around on another viewing and see if it’s a warm roof with a void, how wide those panels are below the windows (they might even be spandrel panels with cladding over the top) and if you can insulate the ceiling? The service charge documents or those of the limited co management might show when the flat roofs were done and if they added insulation at any time, it’s always good to try and speak to a resident and find the details of the person who’s most active with the management as they will be able to answer a lot of questions regarding what work was done and to what spec, it looks like they were all re clad recently so may have better insulation then when built.
You can also scope out the possibility of a heat pump and if anyone else has enquired.
You shouldn’t have to wait for leasehold reform to insulate as unless there is a clause to prohibit that in the lease they can’t stop you. Obviously you can’t alter the external features.
I wouldn’t be put off as there are lots of plus points over a shitty built Victorian terrace with mud under the floorboards and damp everywhere.
Mr_Smyth-
This is a hugely helpful reply (maybe just because it’s what I want to hear, haha).
We currently live in a damp, shite Victorian terrace and have zero interest in buying one having seen the horrors our landlord uncovered when re-rendering the front (serves him right).
We’re viewing another property fairly close by, so will be a brave boy and chap on the neighbours doors later.
@lemonade: no bother, it’s just bikes and houses innit.
JacqueLucque
We are considering buying a really nice upstairs flat built in 1964. You can see the EPC rating for the property here: https://find-energy-certificate.service.gov.uk/energy-certificate/0370-2854-8410-2224-2255
The property listing, including floorplan, is here: https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/153370358#/?channel=RES_BUY
It is unlikely that I will be able to install any type wet central heating system.
Likewise, externally mounted heat pumps will almost certainly not be possible due to leaseholder agreements (that may not be strictly true but I think it's best to continue with the assumption it won't be possible).
As such, this locks us into installing a new electric-based heating system.
I envisage (however please suggest any alternatives) running a central hot water boiler for the bathroom and kitchen paired with modern electric heaters. I am not fussy – nor do I have the expertise to comment on the optimal option! – about the technology used for the heaters.
I am also willing to invest in a smart home system (this is the part I'm most excited by), most likely controlled by Home Assistant. I won't go into too much detail as it's beyond the scope of this post but I anticipate using temperature sensors and HA's predictive weather reporting capability to control the system.
The house has good double glazing but, as highlighted in the EPC report, it's not terribly well insulated elsewhere. I may be able to insulate the roof internally using foam-backed panels and the floor with something similar, but additional improvements are unlikely.
Considering all of this and the EPC report, can I get a vibe check on:
To provide context, we really like this property – it's the right size for us, has a sizable garage and is in a great part of town, so it's a really difficult decision.
As a total aside, if leaseholder reforms are brought in, I hope the right to insulate and heat your home with modern tech is made part of it. It seems mad that I even have to consider installing a sub-optimal system, but there you go