Frequently asked questions

What to expect from our visit:

To produce the certificate, an assessor must attend the property; the EPC is an evidence based survey whereby the assessor will need to look at the following aspects:

• Loft insulationWhere possible, the assessor will need to do a quick ‘head-and-shoulders’ inspection of any loft space so they can record the depth and type of insulation and evidence this by taking a photograph with a tape measure against it. If access to the loft is not possible or the insulation is boarded over, they will need to provide evidence of this through any paperwork you may have.
• Wall type / thicknessThe assessor will need to measure the volume of the property and will calculate the heat loss perimeter by looking at the kind of walls and any insulation that might be present. If insulation has been added and is not visible due to render, we might require certification to prove it.
• Heating / hot water systemThe assessor will need to make a note of the type of heating system in place, the make and model of the boiler and any thermostats, programmers, thermostatic valves, and any other heating controls that may be present.
• WindowsThe type and the age of the windows will be checked and measured. (If these have been fitted post-2002, the date will not be visible in the units; please have paperwork available to show the installation date).
• LightingThe number of lights in the property and whether they are energy-efficient light bulbs.

To support their findings, the assessor is required to provide evidence. This can be in two forms: photographic evidence taken on the day or documentary evidence. This is usually required when an aspect of the property cannot be seen (for example, wall or loft insulation). The assessor will need to see documentation showing exactly what is present.