The data entered into the software is based on proof which the Assessor collects during the visit. Typically your Assessor will get almost all the information whilst going around the home.

What we should prevent is the Assessor putting into the software the phrase “as built” for items that will be required where no information is gathered. When the term “as built” needs 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 built. This may have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

If you can supply documentary evidence of any of these kinds of improvements to the property then this can be shown on the Certificate and will probably increase the rating of your EPC.

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

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

• Roof conversions year it was built – building control sign off, dated architects drawings.

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

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

The three things 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 generally heated by either of these fuel sources: gas, peak rate electric, off peak electric, oil, bulk or bottled LPG. So for instance a house heated by gas would cost you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the similar house heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi-detached using around 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost you £696 to heat by gas in comparison to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the Energy Performance rating score. Higher expenses 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
Although upgrades to the double glazing can make a difference, the biggest difference is actually really achieved if you are improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this will only show as a modest increase in the energy rating of the property. With upvc double glazing the perception is generally sensed by the customer in terms of cosiness from a decrease in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t consider the condition of any specific item, this kind of comfort gain is not measured.

 

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