The information put into the software program is based on evidence which the Assessor collects during the visit. Typically the Assessor can get the majority of the information whilst going around the home.

What we should avoid is the Assessor putting into the software program the term “as built” for items that are required where no proof is obtained. If the term “as built” has to be used then the software program will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was built. EPC rating.

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 enhance the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

• Loft extensions year it was built – completion certificate, dated architects plans.

The three things that have the most significant effect 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 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 using a typically semi which uses around 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost £696 to heat with gas as compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the Energy Performance rating rating. 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
This one may come as a bit of a shock, but upvc double glazing does not have as major an effect on the EPC as most people would imagine. Certainly not nearly as much as the heating, the insulation and the type of fuel used as earlier mentioned. Where it does have a more substantial effect, is when your property is up-graded from single glazing to double glazing. If you are upgrading from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, to current double glazing, this will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the home.

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 take into account the condition of any particular item, this comfort gain is not recorded.

 

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