To prepare the Energy Performance
Certificate it is necessary to obtain detailed information about the
property. A qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor
will need to inspect the property in order to assess the factors
that influence the energy rating. This inspection is
visual, nothing is removed or drilled to make observations. It
is a requirement in the 'Code of Practice' that governs these
assessments that no intrusive examinations are made that could damage the building fabric in any way,
for example the assessor is not allowed to remove a boiler
inspection cover. Depending upon the
size of the property the inspection will take about 1 to 1½ hours,
typically it will include the following:
Visual inspection of the inside and
outside of the property.
Measurements of the dimensions of
each room within the property .
Examination of the loft space and
any existing loft insulation, the DEA will provide a ladder for
access.
Inspection of the space and water
heating systems and associated controls.
Assessment of the basement or cellar
if one is present
Inspection of electricity and gas
meters, bottled gas, fuel or oil supplies.
Check of the type lighting used
within the home.
Examination of all of the glazing
fitted in each room.
Determination of wall thicknesses at
the reveals by opening windows or doors in most rooms.
Tapping of walls in most rooms to
help determine the type of wall construction.
Recording of any other energy
related features such as solar panels, photovoltaic panels or
renewable energy resources used in the home.
If you arrange an inspection please
leave clear access to the areas indicated above, remember that the
DEA must not move furniture or personal items during the
inspection. If a DEA has to limit their inspection in any way
because of obstructions, this might have a detrimental effect on the
energy rating your property achieves. Please also note the
following:
If you will not be present for the
inspection, please be mindful that the inspection cannot take
place if there are juveniles under the age of 16 in sole charge
of the property.
The assessor will not enter a
property where dogs or other animals that could pose a hazard
are unaccompanied or unrestrained.
It is important that the assessor is
allowed to carry out the inspection in their own time and
without distraction, to ensure none of the data vital to the
production of the certificate is missed and that mistakes are
not made.
Missed appointments or return visits
will attract a fee.
