The data entered into the software program is based on proof that the Assessor gathers during the visit. In most cases the Assessor can get almost all of the information whilst going around the home.

Your Assessor will take photographic or obtain documentary evidence which is necessary for audit reasons. If no proof is obtained then the Assessor has to enter the term “as built” into the software. In this case the software program will use what the property would have been built with based on it’s age.

Whenever you can supply documentary proof of these sorts of improvements then these can be shown on the Certificate and will likely increase the rating of your EPC.

• Loft extensions year it was constructed – building control sign off, dated architectural plans.

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

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

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

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

The 3 mains items that have the biggest effect on the energy rating are:

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

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 instance a property or home heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the similar property or home which is heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi-detached using around 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost £696 to heat by gas when compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs influences the EPC 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 improvements to the double glazing does make a difference, the biggest increase is actually really achieved when improving from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are upgrading from pre 2002 double glazing, this will only show as a modest increase in the energy rating of the home. With double glazing the perception is typically experienced by the customer in terms of cosiness from a decrease in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t look at the condition of any particular object, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

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