What does an EPC inspector actually check?

Anyone selling or renting out a property will eventually have to deal with an EPC certificate. This certificate indicates how energy-efficient a home is and plays an increasingly important role in a property’s sale value and attractiveness today.

Yet many people do not know exactly how an EPC score is determined. What does an EPC inspector look at during their visit? And why does one home have a much better score than another?

In this article, we explain which parts of a home are inspected and how they influence your EPC score.

 

1. What is an EPC certificate?

An EPC or Energy Performance Certificate is an official document used in Belgium to represent the energy efficiency of a home.

The score is expressed in kWh per square meter per year. The lower this figure, the better the energy performance of the home. The EPC takes various structural and technical characteristics of the property into account. The actual energy consumption of the residents plays no role in this.

Although other countries have similar energy certificates, the term EPC in this article refers specifically to the Belgian system.

 

2. Which documents does an EPC inspector review?

During the preparation of an EPC certificate, the energy expert collects as much information as possible about the property.

Available evidence can make a significant difference.

Examples include:

• Invoices for insulation work
• Construction plans
• Technical data sheets
• Certificates of completed renovations
• Documentation for windows and glazing

If you cannot provide proof, the inspector often has to rely on default values that may be less favorable.

 

Roof inspection

Roof insulation is one of the most important components of an EPC calculation.

Because heat rises, poorly insulated homes lose a lot of energy through the roof. The inspector therefore examines whether insulation is present and what its thickness is.

A well-insulated roof can have a significant positive influence on the EPC score.

Exterior wall inspection

Exterior walls also have a major impact on a home’s energy performance.

In older homes without wall insulation, a lot of heat is lost through the facade. Therefore, the EPC inspector checks whether the walls are insulated and what insulation value is present.

Facade insulation can play a vital role here. Homes with exterior facade insulation often achieve a better EPC score than comparable homes without insulation. At Instacrepi, you can find answers to all your questions about facade insulation. Contact us today for personalized advice.

Inspection of windows and glazing

The inspector also looks at the type of glass and the window profiles.

Single glazing scores significantly worse than high-efficiency glass. The quality of the window frames also plays a role in the calculation.

Replacing old windows can therefore have a positive influence on a home’s energy performance. For new, better-insulating windows, you can visit InstaWindow, the sister company of Instacrepi. Discover Instawindow

Ventilation and renewable energy

Ventilation systems and renewable energy installations are also included in the EPC calculation.

Solar panels, solar boilers, and heat pumps can contribute to a better energy score when they are correctly registered.

 

3. How do you improve your EPC score?

If you want to increase your EPC score, it is best to focus on the areas where the most heat is lost. This often involves improving roof insulation, insulating the facade, replacing outdated windows, or renewing the heating system. Facade insulation is an attractive choice in this regard, as it not only contributes to lower energy consumption but also gives the home’s appearance a fresh update.

 

Conclusion

An EPC inspector looks at much more than just your energy bill. The insulation of the roof, exterior walls, windows, and the heating system all play an important role in calculating your EPC score.

Do you want to know what the possibilities are for your home? Instacrepi is ready with tailored advice and a non-binding analysis of your facade. Contact us today.