How it works - EPC-PLUS

How EPC-PLUS works

The EPC software (RdSAP) is used by all Domestic Energy Assessors. In order to offer some continuity across the UK it assumes a number calculations based on housing age, building fabric and services. These assumptions are generally accurate, but in many cases can be on the cautious side, and lead to a poorer EPC score. We offer a specialised in-depth service in order to challenge these assumptions and offer more accurate data.

STAGE 1:

Following an initial telephone conversation, we will book a mutually convenient date and time for an assessor to visit the property. The survey will take 1-2 hours and it will be your responsibility to ensure access to all areas of the property is available.

STAGE 2:

We will research your property’s history, looking for any building regulations documentation or planning permission requests with your local council which can be offered as evidence of build date. We will also source and existing or expired EPC data.

STAGE 3:

Our assessor will attend your home to perform any number of the following;

An Air Pulse Test (or Pulse air tightness test) is a modern, non-disruptive method used to measure how much air leaks through the cracks and gaps in a building’s outer shell. It involves a portable compressed-air device (about the size of a suitcase) is placed in the centre of a ground-floor room. The device releases a short, controlled burst of compressed air to slightly change the indoor pressure. Sensors measure how the building responds and how quickly the pressure drops, using this data to calculate the overall air permeability of the property. The entire process takes less than 25 minutes, and occupants can safely stay inside during the test.

U-value Calculation: RdSAP software assumes the u-value (Thermal Transmittance) of walls and roofs.

A U-value measures the rate of heat transfer through a building element, showing how well or poorly a structure insulates. We can calculate this accurately by either drilling a small hole on the surface and identifying the fabric with a borescope, or using a ISO 9869 Heat Flux System.

Glazing Identification: Many property owners are unaware of when glazing was added to the property and lack any original paperwork. We will identify the glazing type and enter the u-values manually into the RDSAP software.

STAGE 4:

When sufficient data is collected, our assessor will leave. We will then input the data, creating a draft EPC for discussion with you prior to lodgement. If your property does not meet the standard for an EPC C, we will identify and outline any areas where improvements can be made and where you property will benefit with the least amount of disruption and cost. Properties which are unlikely to meet the standard will be identified early in the process and you will be informed.

Claire Dawson, Landlady

A very comprehensive service....

The assessor arrived on time and got straight to work. The air pulse test was quite dramatic but seemed to give a favourable result. The whole experience was far more comprehensive than my previous EPCs and the extra effort took me from a D63 to a C74. I'm delighted to say the least. I have booked EPC-PLUS for my other houses and would thoroughly recommend them. It is a huge weight off my mind.

Darren Atkinson, Property Owner

It is so very reassuring to know my properties are compliant.

I have been worrying about the forthcoming ruling making it illegal to rent out my properties unless they have a C rating. These guys did such a thorough job of identifying where other assessors had overlooked. In total I spent just over £300 to bring all 6 of my properties in line. Delighted is an understatement. It';s surising how a property can be a lot better than it actually appears.

Peter Bell, Property Developer

It's genuinely changed my life...

I was preparing to sell each of my properties before the law came in in 2030, but I though I'd get them ready with a new EPC as I know it can now affect sale price a lot. It turned out that all my houses were in fact compliant. I hadn't evidenced any IWI I had done, but they drilled a small hole and identified it. It made such a huge difference, and I will continue to rent them out as a result. I thought a C was unachievable for old houses but it's not at all. Really happy!