The data put into the software is based on proof that the Assessor collects during the visit. Typically your Assessor can get most of the information whilst going around the property.

What we need to avoid is the Assessor putting into the software program the phrase “as built” for items which are needed where no information is gathered. When the term “as built” has to be used then the software will default to the worst case scenario based upon what would have been there when the property was constructed. EPC rating.

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

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

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

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

• Roof extensions year it was constructed – completion certificate, dated architectural plans.

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

The 3 mains items that have the biggest impact on the energy rating are:

• The levels of insulation in the property.
• The heating system.
• The main source of fuel for heating 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 home heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the same home heated by bottled LPG 23p per kwh. {*source 2019 Nottingham Energy Partnership.} So using a typically semi using around 12,000 kwh to heat the property, it would cost £596 to heat by gas when compared to £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs impacts the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher costs equates to lower scores.

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 can make a difference, the biggest increase is actually really achieved if you are improving from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are simply modernising from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, it will only show as a small improvement in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is typically sensed by the customer in terms of comfort from a decrease in draughts. Since the EPC doesn’t consider the condition of any particular object, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lighting does help the EPC since they are an affordable improvement that makes a contribution to reduced energy costs but nowhere near the same contribution as insulation, heating and heating controls.