Typically your Assessor can get most of the information they need simply by going around the property. The data entered into the software is based on evidence gathered during the visit.

What we should prevent is the Assessor putting into the software the phrase “as built” for items which are required where no evidence is obtained. When the term “as built” must be used then the program will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was constructed. This may have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

Whenever you can provide documentary evidence of these kinds of improvements to the property then this can be shown on the Certificate and will likely help the rating of your EPC Certificate.

• Any type of wall insulation Cavity/Internal/External– Any guarantees, or invoice from the contractor

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

• Floor insulation/ sloping ceiling insulation – receipt from installer showing thickness fitted.

• Roof extensions year it was constructed – completion certificate, dated architects drawings.

• Double glazing improvements to the majority of the property – Certificate from Fensa, or dated receipt from the contractors.

The three 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 homes are typically heated by either of these fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for example a property or home heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the exact same property or home which is 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 £696 to heat with gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher expenses 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 will make a difference, the most significant difference is actually really achieved if you are upgrading from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are upgrading 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 generally experienced by the customer in terms of cosiness from a reduction in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any particular item, this kind of comfort gain is just not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lights does indeed help the Energy Performance Certificate as they are an affordable improvement that contributes to lower energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as insulation, heating and heating controls.