Energy Performance Assessment: What to Expect

Understanding the EPC Assessment Process: An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessment is a visual inspection conducted by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) to evaluate your home's energy efficiency. The assessment typically takes between 45-60 minutes, though larger or more complex properties may require additional time.

To ensure a smooth and accurate assessment, homeowners should provide access to all areas of the property and have relevant supporting documents ready.

How to Prepare for Your EPC Assessment

To achieve the most accurate rating, it’s important to provide details about insulation or energy-saving measures that may not be visible.

Planning permission or building control sign-off for any extensions or loft conversions.

Boiler manual if the model number is not clearly visible.

Cavity wall, internal, or external insulation certificates, especially if your property has been rendered.

Loft or floor insulation evidence, such as photos or installation receipts if the area is boarded over.

Key Areas Assessed & How You Can Assist

Floor Plan: The assessor measures your property to calculate heat loss and energy consumption. Areas thermally separate from the main dwelling (e.g., conservatories, garages, porches, utility rooms) may not be included.

Tip: Clear obstructions to allow for accurate measurements.

Utility Meters: The assessor needs access to your gas and electricity meters to record the fuel types used.

Tip: Ensure meter cupboards are unlocked and easily accessible.

Building Construction: Details such as wall thickness, insulation, and materials are recorded to determine the thermal efficiency of your home.

Tip: Provide building control certificates to confirm insulation upgrades.

Roof: Loft spaces are inspected to check insulation thickness.

Tip: If your loft is boarded, provide photographic evidence or installation receipts.

Windows: The assessor examines your windows for size, type, age, and glazing.

**Tip: If you have FENSA certificates, provide them for verification of window upgrades.**

Ventilation: Features such as open chimneys, extractor fans, and ventilation systems are assessed.

Tip: Ensure extractor fans are accessible and in working condition.

Heating: The type, age, and controls of your heating system are documented.

Tip: Have your boiler model and age information available, along with any relevant building control certificates.

Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and heat pumps can positively impact your EPC rating.

Tip: Provide installation documents and manufacturer details for renewable technologies.

Lighting: Assessors check all light bulbs and note whether they are energy-efficient (LED).

Tip: Replacing non-LED bulbs before the assessment may help improve your rating.

Once completed, your EPC rating will be available on the national EPC register. If you want to improve your rating, your assessor can suggest potential upgrades. If you have any questions about your report, feel free to contact your assessor.

By preparing in advance and assisting the assessor, you help ensure an accurate and fair evaluation of your home’s energy performance. This not only improves your EPC rating but can also enhance your property's value and energy efficiency.

For more information or to book an EPC assessment, contact us today!

If available, please prepare the above.