The information put into the software is based on proof that the Assessor collects during the visit. In most cases your Assessor can get the majority of the information whilst going around the home.

What we need to prevent is the Assessor putting into the software the phrase “as built” for items which are required where no evidence is gathered. If 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 can have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

If you can provide documentary proof of these kinds of improvements to the property then these can be shown on the Certificate and will likely improve the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

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

The 3 mains items that have the main 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 properties 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 or home heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the very same property or home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi-detached which uses around 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost £696 to heat with gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the EPC score. 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 upgrades to the double glazing will make a difference, the most significant difference is actually really achieved when improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are modernising from pre 2002 double glazing, it will only show as a modest improvement in the energy rating of the property. With double glazing the perception is generally noticed by the customer in terms of comfort from a reduction in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t look at the condition of any particular item, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

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