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

What we want to prevent is the Assessor putting into the software the term “as built” for items that are required where no evidence is gathered. When the term “as built” must be used then the software will default to the worst case scenario based on what would have been there when the property was built. EPC score.

Whenever you can supply documentary proof of any of these kinds of improvements then these can be shown on the EPC and is likely to improve the rating of your EPC.

• Loft extensions year it was built – building control sign off, dated architects drawings.

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

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

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

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

The three items that have the most significant 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 homes 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 you somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the very same property or home 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 property, it would cost you £696 to heat by gas in comparison 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
This one may come as a bit of a surprise, but double glazing does not have as big an impact on the EPC as most people would imagine. Certainly not as much as the heating, the insulation and the type of fuel used as mentioned above. However, where it can have a greater effect, is if the property is up-graded from single glazing to double glazing. If you are improving from pre 2002 double glazing, to current double glazing, it will only show as a small increase in the energy rating of the property.

With double glazing the perception is usually experienced by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. Because 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 lights does help the Energy Performance Certificate as they are an affordable improvement that contributes to cheaper energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as insulation, heating and heating controls.