Typically your Assessor will be able to get the majority of the information they require simply by going around the property. The data entered into the software is based on evidence gathered during the visit.

What we want to prevent is the Assessor putting into the software program the term “as built” for items that are needed where no proof is gathered. If the term “as built” has to be used then the software program will default to the worst case scenario based on what would have been there when the property was built. EPC score.

If you can supply documentary evidence of any of these kinds of improvements then this can be shown on the Certificate and will likely increase the rating of your EPC.

• Roof conversions year it was built – building control sign off, dated architects plans.

• Double glazing improvements made to the majority of the property – Fensa certificate, or dated receipt from the installer.

• Any wall insulation External/Cavity/Internal– {guarantee, or receipt from installer.}

• Solar PV or Solar Thermal – MCS certificate from installer.

• Sloping ceiling insulation/ floor insulation – receipt from contractors showing thickness fitted.

The 3 mains items that have the main impact on the energy rating are:

• The main source of fuel for heating the property
• The levels of insulation in the property.
• The heating system.

Main Source of Fuel
UK properties are generally heated by either of these kinds of fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for example a house heated by gas would cost you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the similar house heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi-detached which uses around 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost you £696 to heat by gas when compared with £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the EPC score. Higher costs equals lower ratings.

Levels Of Insulation
Good levels of insulation ensures that the demand on the heating system is kept down, and it also results in a more comfortable home with lower running costs.

The Heating System
An efficient heating system with good controls such as room thermostat, thermostatic valves and programmer helps to keep energy bills down. This all contributes to a better rating on the EPC.

Double glazing
Although improvements to the double glazing can make a difference, the biggest difference is only really achieved when you are upgrading from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this will only show as a small increase in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is normally felt by the customer in terms of cosiness from a reduction in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any specific object, this comfort gain is simply not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lighting does help the Energy Performance Certificate since they are an affordable improvement that makes a contribution to cheaper energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as heating, insulation, and heating controls.