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Frequently asked questions
1 How much do you charge?
Please see my Home page for details.
2 How long does an inspection take?
It is impossible to be precise, but an inspection would normally take a minimum of 30 minutes for a 1 bedroom property, with an additional 10 minutes for each extra bedroom.
3 Does someone need to be present for the whole time?
No, although it is helpful for someone who is familiar with the property to be present at the start of an inspection to answer any questions which may arise. (This person must not be under 16 years of age).
4 Do you have to follow a Code of Practice?
Yes, as a Domestic Energy Assessor I am under a legal obligation to abide by the Code of Practice as specified by my Accreditation body, Elmhurst Energy Systems Ltd, which is a Government approved organisation.
5 How can I trust you?
All Domestic Energy Assessors (and Home Inspectors) are required to undergo and pass a Criminal Records Bureau check, prior to being accepted by an Accreditation body.
6 What does the property inspection involve?
An internal and external inspection of your home is carried out and information is taken on various elements that affect its energy efficiency, including the following:
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approximate age of property
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type of property eg. flat, mid-terraced house, detached house etc
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number of storeys
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type of wall and roof construction
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indentification of any extensions
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existing insulation
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type of windows
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type of heating and hot water system, including controls
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any open fireplaces or secondary heating sources
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identification of low energy lightbulbs
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measurement of the floor area
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construction type of the lowest floor
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presence of solar panels, PV panels or wind turbine
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conservatory
7 How is the energy rating obtained?
The data collected above is put into a computer program that calculates the energy efficiency of your home and compares that to the maximum realistic efficiency that could be obtained given its age and type of construction. A certificate is then issued which gives the current energy efficiency rating and its potential rating, and if appropriate, lists a number of cost-effective improvements which could be made to improve its energy efficiency.
The recommendations are advisory only - however, if you decide to act on and carry out the recommendations made in the certificate then it could make your property more attractive for sale or rent by making it more energy efficient.
8 Why have EPC's become necessary?
The UK Government have introduced EPC's in response to an EU Directive aimed at reducing the amount of energy used and carbon dioxide produced by buildings, in an effort to tackle climate change. | 
