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

What we should avoid is the Assessor putting into the software the phrase “as built” for items which will be required where no evidence is gathered. If 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. EPC score.

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

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

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

• Sloping ceiling insulation/ floor insulation – receipt from contractors 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 – Certificate from Fensa, or dated receipt from the installers.

The 3 mains items 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 kinds of 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 same property or home 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 £596 to heat by gas as compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the EPC score. Higher costs 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 actually really achieved when improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are simply modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this will only show as a small rise in the energy rating of the property. With upvc double glazing the perception is normally experienced 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 just not measured.

 

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