In most cases your Assessor is able to obtain almost all of the information they require simply by going around the home. 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 program the term “as built” for items that are required where no information is obtained. When the term “as built” needs to be used then the software program will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was built. EPC score.

Whenever you can supply documentary evidence of these sorts of improvements then these can be shown on the Certificate and will probably enhance the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

• Loft conversions year it was built – building control sign off, dated architects plans.

The three items that have the most significant effect on the energy rating are:

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

Main Source of Fuel
UK properties 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 property heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the very same property which is heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi-detached using in the region of 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost £696 to heat with gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the Energy Performance rating score. Higher expenses 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 upgrades to the double glazing can make a difference, the greatest difference is only really achieved when you are improving from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are upgrading from pre 2002 double glazing, it will only show as a small improvement in the energy rating of the home. With double glazing the perception is typically noticed by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. As the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any particular object, this kind of comfort gain is simply not measured.

 

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