Typically your Assessor should be able to obtain the vast majority of information they need simply by going around the home. The data entered into the software is based on evidence gathered during the visit.

What we want to prevent is the Assessor putting into the software program the phrase “as built” for items that are needed where no evidence is obtained. When the term “as built” needs to be used then the software will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was constructed. This could have a negative effect on the {rating of the EPC}

Whenever you can provide documentary evidence of any of these sorts of improvements then this can be shown on the EPC and is likely to enhance the rating of your EPC Certificate.

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

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

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

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

• Roof conversions year it was constructed – building control sign off, dated architectural plans.

The three things that have the biggest effect 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 property or home heated by gas would cost you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the same property or home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi which uses around 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost you £696 to heat by gas when compared with £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs influences the EPC rating. 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 upgrades to the double glazing will make a difference, the greatest increase is only really achieved when you are upgrading from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is generally felt by the customer in terms of cosiness from a reduction in draughts. As the EPC doesn’t consider the condition of any specific object, this kind of comfort gain is simply not measured.

 

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