The information put into the software program is based on proof which the Assessor collects during the visit. In most cases the Assessor will get the majority of the information whilst going around the property.

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Loft extensions year it was built – building control sign off, dated architects drawings.

The three items 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 homes are typically heated by either of these fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for example a property heated by gas would cost around 4.64 pence per kwh and the exact same property which is heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi which uses in the region of 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost £596 to heat by gas in comparison 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
Although improvements to the double glazing will make a difference, the biggest increase is only really achieved when upgrading from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are upgrading from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this will only show as a modest improvement in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is normally experienced by the customer in terms of cosiness from a decrease in draughts. As the EPC doesn’t look at the condition of any specific object, this kind of comfort gain is just not measured.

 

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