The data entered into the software program is based on proof which the Assessor collects during the visit. Typically your Assessor will get almost all of the information whilst going around the home.

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

Whenever you can provide documentary evidence of any of these sorts of improvements then this can be shown on the Certificate and will likely enhance the rating of your EPC Certificate.

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

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

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

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

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

The three things 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 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 heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the same property heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi-detached using around 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost £696 to heat by gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the EPC score. Higher costs equates to 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 improvements to the double glazing will make a difference, the greatest increase is only really achieved when you are upgrading from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are simply modernising from pre 2002 double glazing, this would only show as a modest increase in the energy rating of the home. With double glazing the perception is generally sensed by the customer in terms of cosiness from a reduction in draughts. As the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any specific item, this kind of comfort gain is not measured.

 

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