Typically your Assessor can obtain almost all of the information they need by just going around the home. The data entered into the software is based on evidence gathered during the visit.

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

Whenever you can provide documentary evidence of these types of improvements to the property then this can be shown on the Certificate and will probably improve the rating of your EPC Certificate.

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

• Sloping ceiling insulation/ floor insulation – receipt from contractor showing thickness installed.

• Loft extensions year it was constructed – building control sign off, dated architectural plans.

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

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

The 3 mains 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 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 around 4.64 pence per kwh and the exact same property or home 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 £696 to heat with gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the Energy Performance rating score. Higher expenses 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 improvements to the double glazing does make a difference, the greatest difference is only really achieved when upgrading from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are simply modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, it will only show as a small improvement in the energy rating of the property. With upvc double glazing the perception is generally felt by the customer in terms of cosiness from a decrease in draughts. As the EPC doesn’t consider the condition of any particular item, this kind of comfort gain is simply not measured.

 

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