So what happens during the assessment?

A non-invasive inspection of your home, undertaken by a qualified and accredited Domestic Energy Assessor, will give your home a rating on a scale of A-G - similar to the energy ratings on white goods. Your Energy Performance Certificate will detail recommendations of how you can improve the efficiency of your home - some of which may have little cost to implement.

The inspection is non-invasive, meaning there will be no disturbance to the fabric of your home, for example no drilling or removal of fixed panels will take place.

The inspection will take around 1 hour (or longer for larger properties) and will include the following:

• A visual inspection of the outside of the property
• A visual inspection of each room within the property
• Measurements will be taken internally and/or externally
• A visual inspection of the loft space to assess insulation levels
• An assessment of the basement or cellar if one is present
• An assessment of adjoining corridors or stairwells in flats
• A visual inspection of any garages, conservatory or utility areas that may house any gas or electric installations etc
• Access will be required to gas meters and electric meters, or alternate fuel supply
• Inspection of boilers, hot water cylinders, thermostatic controls and central heating systems
• A visual check of the lighting within the property
• An assessment of the glazing fitted in each room (double or single glazing) and date fitted
• Wall thickness will be measured by opening windows or doors in most rooms
• An assessment of any other energy related features such as solar panels, photovoltaic panels or renewable energy resources used in the property

You will be asked to fill-in a vendor / landlord questionnaire giving details about the property and details of any relevant guarantees, certificates, planning and/or building consents for any extensions, insulation, double-glazing or refurbishment works.

Many features will depend on the age or the date of installation or construction.

Any information and documentation about your property and it's heating, lighting and window installations will help ascertain your property's SAP rating.

Dulwich Energy Assessors Ltd - professional customer service