The information put into the software is based on proof which the Assessor gathers during the visit. In most cases your Assessor can get almost all the information whilst going around the home.

What we want to prevent is the Assessor putting into the software program the phrase “as built” for items which will be required where no proof is gathered. 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 built. EPC rating.

Whenever you can provide documentary evidence of these types of improvements then this can be shown on the Certificate and will likely enhance the rating of your EPC Certificate.

• Loft extensions year it was built – completion certificate, dated architectural plans.

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

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

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

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

The 3 mains items that have the main 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 homes 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 home heated by gas would cost somewhere in the region of 4.64 pence per kwh and the very 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 £696 to heat with gas when compared with £2,760 for bottled LPG.. Therefore running costs influences the Energy Performance rating rating. Higher expenses 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 improvements to the double glazing can make a difference, the biggest difference is actually really achieved when you are upgrading from single glazed to doubled glazed. If you are simply upgrading from pre 2002 upvc double glazing, this would only show as a modest increase in the energy rating of the home. With upvc double glazing the perception is normally felt by the customer in terms of comfort from a reduction in draughts. As the EPC doesn’t take into account the condition of any specific object, this comfort gain is not measured.

 

Low Energy Lights
Again low energy lighting does help the Energy Performance Certificate because 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.