The visual inspection which should normally take less than an hour will be focusing on:
• Insulation – Walls, windows, roof space and floors.
• Heating systems – Type & age, and whether thermostatically controlled.
• Hot water systems – Type & age and the quality of the insulation.
• Fixed lighting – Are energy efficient light bulbs being used.
• Windows – How many and what type.
• Fuels – What fuel is used? Coal fires, oil, electric, or gas etc.
The DEA will also want to confirm with you the approximate age of the property. Once all this information has been compiled the DEA will be preparing an Energy Performance Certificate. This will calculate two energy ratings for the property.
1. Energy Efficiency Rating – a measure of the overall energy efficiency of your home. The higher the rating the more energy efficient you property.
2. Environmental (CO ) Impact – a measure of the property’s impact on the environment. The higher the rating, the less
the impact on the environment.
These two ratings are also displayed in coloured bands much in the same way as the band used are used on fridges and washing machines.
In addition to this, the Energy Performance Certificate will indicate what actions could be taken to improve the energy efficiency rating and give clear guidance on the annual savings that would result. |