The data put into the software is based on proof which the Assessor collects during the visit. In most cases the Assessor can get almost all of the information whilst going around the home.

The Assessor will take photographic or gather documentary information that is important for audit purposes. If no proof is obtained then the Assessor has to enter the term “as built” in to the software. In this instance the software program will use what the property would have been built with based on it’s age.

Whenever you can supply documentary evidence of these types of improvements to the property then this can be shown on the Certificate and will probably improve the rating of your EPC Certificate.

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

• Any wall insulation External/Cavity/Internal– Any guarantees, or receipts from the contractor.

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

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

• Roof extensions year it was constructed – building control sign off, dated architectural drawings.

The three things that have the main effect 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 kinds of fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for instance a property or home heated by gas would cost you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the very same property or home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi-detached which uses in the region of 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 impacts the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher expenses equates to 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 upgrades to the double glazing does make a difference, the most significant increase is actually really achieved when upgrading from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are simply modernising from pre 2002 double glazing, it will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the property. With double glazing the perception is normally felt by the customer in terms of comfort from a reduction in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any particular item, this comfort gain is just not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lights does help the Energy Performance Certificate as they are a low cost improvement that makes a contribution to reduced energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as insulation, heating and heating controls.