The information put into the software program is based on evidence that the Assessor gathers during the visit. Typically the Assessor can get most of the information whilst going around the property.

What we should avoid is the Assessor putting into the software the term “as built” for items which are required 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 built. This could have a negative impact on the {rating of the EPC}

If you can provide documentary evidence of these kinds of improvements then these can be shown on the EPC and will probably help the rating of your EPC Certificate.

• Roof extensions year it was built – completion certificate, dated architectural drawings.

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

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

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

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

The 3 mains 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 generally 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 house heated by gas would cost around 4.64 pence per kwh and the same house heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So with a typically semi-detached which uses around 12,000 kwh to heat the home, it would cost £556 to heat by gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the EPC 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
Although improvements to the double glazing can make a difference, the biggest increase is only really achieved when improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is normally sensed by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t look at the condition of any particular item, this comfort gain is simply not measured.

 

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