Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs), including myself, were required to complete additional training to comply with the updated methodology, known as RdSAP 10. This stands for Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure, version 10, which replaces the previous version, RdSAP 9.94. 

This marks the most significant change to EPCs in over a decade.

Under RdSAP 10, DEAs must now collect more detailed information during on-site assessments, which means the process takes longer than before. As of the time of writing, the areas requiring the most additional detail are windows, ventilation, and lighting.

For example, when assessing windows, DEAs must now measure each individual window to record:

• The glazing area
• The glazing type
• Frame material
• Glazing gap (the distance between panes in double glazing)
• Location within the property (main building or extension)
• Presence of a permanent shutter
• Orientation (e.g., north-, south-facing, etc.)

In general, the level of detail required has increased significantly. Previously, it was sufficient to note whether a property had a single-rate or dual-rate electricity meter. Now, assessors must also identify whether the property is equipped with a smart meter.

While the new methodology adds complexity and time to the assessment process, it results in more accurate and informative EPC reports. Ultimately, this is a positive development for landlords, homeowners, and tenants, as it provides a clearer picture of a property’s true energy performance.

I recently attended an online presentation from a director one of the biggest EPC firms in the country. Some important points I noted are:

He estimated that the bill to retrofit homes to more energy efficient levels in order to comply with net zero targets would total £65 billion in present money and £345 billion if left until 2035 because of the increased costs.  In April 2021 it was estimated that to bring a property up to a C rating would cost on average £8100 per property and considerably more for an F and G rating.  

The housing stock in this country is the big obstacle towards the holy grail of net zero. Currently, 15 per cent of the of the UK’s total carbon emissions is from the housing stock.

The official EPC register (found here: https://www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate) has only 50 per cent of the housing stock on there. That means we don’t know the energy rating of 50 per cent of all the domestic properties in the country.

60 per cent of the housing stock is currently rated D or below.

There is nothing definitive on this, but a government White Paper  (details below) suggests that all properties need to be a C rating by 2035. Additionally:

Also all new lets should be a C rating by 2026 and 2028 all lets.

The problem is mortgage companies are lending to landlords when the property to be purchased is arguably non-compliant.

Will we get to point in 2030 where lenders will not lend money unless the rating is a C.

Landlords will need to spend £10,000 before they get an exemption.