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# Jeff Howell's DIY advice: Energy Performance Certificates

##  Energy Performance Certificates are, in my opinion, next to useless. By
Jeff Howell.

![Jeff Howell's DIY advice][1]

Jeff Howell Photo: MARTIN POPE

By Jeff Howell 7:00AM GMT 11 Nov 2009

[Comments][2]

**RATING ENERGY COST **

**Q** I am the chairman of our village hall committee. I would like to know
what our energy rating would be under an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
As a charity we do not need to have one done, but it would be nice to know
where we stand, so that we don't spend money unnecessarily. Is there any way
we can do this ourselves without spending money on calling out a professional?
**RP, by email **

**A** An** [Energy Performance Certificate][3] **is not an actual measurement
of the thermal insulation properties of a building. It is a very rough
approximation, based on a ridiculously simple computer model. As has been
reported in this column in the past, EPCs are, in my opinion, next to useless.

If you want to know how much energy the building is using, the only way is to
take regular gas and electricity meter readings over the course of the year.

To cut your fuel bills, the most cost-effective steps are to make sure the
windows and external doors are properly draught-proofed and that you have a
reasonable level of loft insulation.

These are both measures that can be undertaken by competent DIYers or
volunteers.

**SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO**: Jeff at Life, The Sunday Telegraph, 111 Buckingham
Palace Road, London SW1W 0DT or email [askjeff@telegraph.co.uk][4]

Also visit [www.askjeff.co.uk][5]

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