What Is An EPC Rating?
An EPC rating or your home’s energy performance certificate is an acknowledgment of your property’s energy efficiency. The EPC rating will be scored on a number of factors and an overall band rating will then be given to the property. The bands range from A – G, with A being the best EPC rating a property can achieve.
EPC Ratings From A to G:
A – Properties with an EPC rating of A are considered the best when it comes to energy efficiency. Scoring highly across the board and being awarded highly for the energy efficient measures in place within the building.
Properties below a C rating – Any property that has been given a rating of below a C, is considered by the UK government to be performing poorly in accordance with their energy efficiency standards. These homes will often have outdated or poor insulation, older boilers or no heating systems at all.
At this current moment in time, the UK government is pushing for all homes to undergo the necessary work in order to achieve an EPC rating of above a C. In order to do this, the government has introduced various schemes, grants and loans for homeowners, residents and landlords to make these changes. An example of this being the ECO4 Scheme.
How Is An EPC Rating Determined?
An EPC rating is determined by an accredited assessor who will visit your property and conduct a visual inspection. They will gather information on various aspects that affect the building’s energy efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Inspection and Data Collection:
- The assessor will measure the property and take photographs.
- They will record details about the lighting, windows, heating system, radiators, and insulation.
- They’ll inquire about the property’s age, size, and construction materials.
Calculations and Ratings:
- The collected data is fed into a software program based on the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP).
- SAP considers factors like build quality, insulation levels, heating system efficiency, and hot water use.
- The software generates a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) score, which reflects the property’s energy efficiency.
Grades and Reports:
- A higher SAP score translates into a better EPC rating. The EPC rating is typically displayed on a scale of A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
- You’ll receive an EPC certificate that details the property’s energy rating, potential energy savings, and recommendations for improvement.
Overall, the EPC rating reflects how much energy a property uses per square meter and how well it retains heat. This assessment helps homeowners understand their energy consumption, environmental impact, and potential cost savings through improvements.
Ways To Improve Your Home’s EPC Rating
There are a number of ways your property’s EPC rating can be improved, from installing new insulation throughout, to boiler upgrades and modernising your home’s heating system.
- Insulate your loft: A well-insulated loft can significantly reduce heat loss. This is a relatively inexpensive upgrade with good returns.
- Install cavity wall insulation: This fills the cavity between the walls of your home, preventing heat from escaping.
- Upgrade your boiler: A new boiler can be significantly more efficient than an older model, leading to energy savings.
Additional tips:
Always check with your energy supplier for any grants or incentives available for energy-saving home improvements.
You can find recommendations for specific improvements in your EPC certificate.
Consider getting quotes from multiple qualified installers for any major works.
By implementing some of these strategies, you can improve your home’s EPC rating, making it more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and potentially reducing your energy bills.
