The data entered into the software is based on proof that the Assessor gathers during the visit. In most cases your Assessor will get the majority of the information whilst going around the home.

The Assessor must take photographic or obtain documentary information that is important for audit reasons. If no proof is obtained then the Assessor must enter the term “as built” into the software program. In this instance the software program will use what the property would have been built with based upon it’s age.

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

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

• Any wall insulation Internal/Cavity/External– {guarantee, or receipt from installer.}.

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

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

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

The three things that have the most significant impact 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 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 heated by gas would cost you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the very same property 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 you £696 to heat by gas compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the EPC 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 upgrades to the double glazing will make a difference, the most significant difference is only really achieved if you are improving from single glazing to doubled glazing. If you are simply upgrading from pre 2002 double glazing, this will only show as a modest improvement in the energy rating of the home. With double glazing the perception is typically noticed by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any specific item, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lighting does indeed help the EPC because they are an inexpensive improvement that contributes to lower energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as insulation, heating and heating controls.