The data put into the software program is based on proof which the Assessor gathers during the visit. In most cases your Assessor will get almost all the information whilst going around the property.

What we should prevent is the Assessor putting into the software the phrase “as built” for items that are needed where no information is gathered. If the term “as built” has 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. This can have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

If you can supply documentary proof of any of these sorts of improvements then these can be shown on the Certificate and is likely to improve the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

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

The three items that have the biggest impact 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 you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the exact 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 property, it would cost you £696 to heat with gas when compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the Energy Performance rating rating. 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 upgrades to the double glazing will make a difference, the greatest difference is actually really achieved when you are improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are upgrading from pre 2002 double glazing, it will only show as a modest rise in the energy rating of the property. With double glazing the perception is normally felt by the customer in terms of comfort from a reduction in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t look at the condition of any specific object, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lights does indeed help the EPC since they are an inexpensive improvement that contributes to lower energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as heating, insulation, and heating controls.