The data entered into the software is based on proof which the Assessor collects during the visit. Typically the Assessor can get almost all the information whilst going around the property.

The Assessor has to take photographic or obtain documentary information which is important for audit reasons. If no proof is obtained then the Assessor must enter the term “as built” into the software. In cases like this the software will use what the property would have been built with determined by it’s age.

Whenever you can provide documentary proof of these kinds of improvements then these can be shown on the Certificate and is likely to increase the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

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

The 3 mains things that have the most significant 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 homes are typically heated by either of these kinds of fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for example a property or home heated by gas would cost you around 4.64 pence per kwh and the similar property or home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi-detached using around 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost you £696 to heat by gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher expenses equals 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
This particular one may come as a bit of a shock, but upvc double glazing does not have as major an effect on the EPC as most people would imagine. Certainly not as much as the heating, the insulation and the type of fuel used as mentioned before. Where it will have a more substantial impact, is when your property is upgraded from single glazing to double glazing. If you are changing from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, to current double glazing, it will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the home.

With double glazing the perception is normally experienced by the customer in terms of comfort from a reduction in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any particular item, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

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