The data entered into the software program is based on proof that the Assessor collects during the visit. In most cases the Assessor can get the majority of the information whilst going around the property.

What we should prevent is the Assessor putting into the software program the term “as built” for items which are needed where no evidence is gathered. When the term “as built” has to be used then the software program will default to the worst case scenario based on what would have been there when the property was constructed. This may have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

If you can provide documentary proof of any of these types of improvements then these can be shown on the EPC and will probably increase the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

• Roof extensions year it was constructed – building control sign off, dated architects drawings.

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

The three items that have the most significant 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 heated by gas would cost around 4.64 pence per kwh and the same property heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi-detached using in the region of 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost £596 to heat with gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the EPC 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
This particular one may come as a surprise, but double glazing does not have as big an impact 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. However, where it can have a larger effect, is when the home is upgraded from single glazing to double glazing. When you are improving from pre 2002 double glazing, to current double glazing, it will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the property.

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

 

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