A LITTLE ABOUT THE METHODOLOGY

EPC's are a blunt tool (a very blunt tool) which must use many assumptions and approximations if it is to return a result at a sensible cost.  The job of an energy assessor is little more than that of a data gatherer (at the outset at least). When undertaking an assessment visit we gather data about the construction, use, heating, ventilation, cooling, hot water supply and lighting that are present and the means by which those services are controlled. Some observations require interpretation, but in the main our decision making is objective and guided by a detailed and growing set of Conventions to which all assessors must adhere, the aim being that the end result is both consistent and meaningful. So where can an assessor add value and help a property owner most effectively?

Because the methodology has to use many assumptions and approximations and is confined to a finite list of possible Recommendations with which to drive building improvements and energy efficiency gains, then it is the job of the energy assessor to help you to understand the Recommendations listed on the resulting EPC for your property and to offer you a cost effective means of implementing or sometimes avoiding them.

When an assessor walks in to any room/space the first action is to identify the activity that might usually be undertaken within that space. If the building is unoccupied, then the decision will in part be informed by past use, and in part by interpretation. The presence of heating, cooling, ventilation, hot water supply, as well as decor and situation within the building, will all influence the decision and how that space then impacts the efficiency calculation. For example, if an assessor sees a tea making area (a worktop with a sink and water supply and power points for a kettle or a fridge) then the space in which that activity is situated will (most likely) need to be identified as Generic Office which assumes heating and if no heating is actually provided then 'worst case heating' must be applied by the assessor. This may differ from reality but it will generally impact the calculated rating in a negative way.

It's this type of situation where an experienced assessor can advise a landlord that, whilst implementing the EPC Recommendations will improve the rating (sometimes at significant cost), the removal or relocation of some building services can also improve the rating simply by avoiding some of the 'assumptions' that the methodology must make to arrive at its result. Such adjustments will still reduce energy waste and achieve the goal of the assessment and the EPC, but by thinking outside the box an assessor should be able to help you to 'use' the methodology to improve energy efficiency and be Compliant with the Regulations.