Typically your Assessor should be able to get a lot of the information they need simply by going around the property. The data entered into the software is based on evidence gathered during the visit.

What we should prevent is the Assessor putting into the software program the term “as built” for items that will be required where no evidence is obtained. If the term “as built” has to be used then the program will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was constructed. This could have a negative effect on the {rating of the EPC}

If you can supply documentary proof of these types of improvements then these can be shown on the Certificate and will probably increase the rating of your EPC.

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

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

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

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

• Roof extensions year it was constructed – completion certificate, dated architects drawings.

The 3 mains things that have the biggest effect 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 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 identical property or home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi which uses in the region of 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost £696 to heat with gas in comparison to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs affects the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher costs equals 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 upgrading from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, it will only show as a small increase in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is generally noticed by the customer in terms of cosiness from a reduction in draughts. Because the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any specific object, this kind of comfort gain is simply not measured.

 

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