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

What we should avoid is the Assessor putting into the software program the phrase “as built” for items that are needed where no information is gathered. When the term “as built” needs to be used then the program will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was constructed. EPC score.

Whenever you can supply documentary evidence of these types 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 to the majority of the property – Certificate from Fensa, or dated receipt from the installer.

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

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

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

• Loft extensions year it was constructed – completion certificate, dated architects drawings.

The 3 mains items that have the biggest impact 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 homes are generally heated by either of these fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for example a house heated by gas would cost around 4.64 pence per kwh and the same house which is heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi using in the region of 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost £696 to heat with gas as compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs influences the EPC score. Higher costs 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 can make a difference, the greatest difference is actually really achieved when you are improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are simply modernising from pre 2002 double glazing, this would only show as a small improvement in the energy rating of the property. With double glazing the perception is normally experienced by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any particular item, this kind of comfort gain is not measured.

 

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