The data entered into the software program is based on evidence that the Assessor collects during the visit. In most cases the Assessor will get almost all the information whilst going around the property.

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

Whenever you can provide documentary evidence of any of these sorts of improvements to the property then these can be shown on the EPC and will probably increase the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

• Loft extensions year it was constructed – completion certificate, dated architectural plans.

The 3 mains items that have the most significant 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 fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for instance a home heated by gas would cost you around 4.64 pence per kwh and the very same home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi using around 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost you £696 to heat by gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher costs equals lower scores.

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 can make a difference, the greatest increase is actually really achieved when upgrading from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are upgrading from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this would only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is generally experienced by the customer in terms of comfort from a reduction in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t consider the condition of any specific item, this kind of comfort gain is not measured.

 

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