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

What we need to prevent is the Assessor putting into the software program the phrase “as built” for items that are needed where no evidence is gathered. If the term “as built” must 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 could have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 3 mains things that have the most significant impact 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 properties 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 instance a property or home heated by gas would cost you 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 using a typically semi-detached using around 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost you £556 to heat with gas when compared with £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the Energy Performance rating score. 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 bit of a shock, but double glazing does not have as major 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 in the property as earlier mentioned. Where it will have a more substantial effect, is when your property is upgraded from single glazing to double glazing. When you are updating from pre 2002 double glazing, to current double glazing, this will only show as a small increase in the energy rating of the property.

With double glazing the perception is usually noticed by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. Unfortunately the EPC doesn’t consider the condition of any particular item, this comfort gain is not recorded.

 

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