Measuring for EPC Floor Plans
Accurate measurement is a core part of producing reliable Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). For Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs), understanding how to measure for EPC floor plans ensures your assessments are compliant, precise, and consistent. This article covers best practice for taking measurements, applying relevant standards, and using tools that improve accuracy and efficiency.
Following the RICS Measuring Guide
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) measuring guide provides clear standards for recording property measurements. While DEAs do not produce full RICS reports, following the guide’s principles helps maintain accuracy and professionalism. For example, recording room dimensions consistently and noting any assumptions ensures that your EPC floor plans are credible and audit-ready.
Applying RdSAP Conventions
In addition to RICS guidance, DEAs must follow RdSAP conventions when measuring properties. These conventions specify how to measure floor areas, treat irregular shapes, and handle features such as loft conversions or extensions. Familiarity with these rules helps avoid errors and ensures that your measurements feed correctly into EPC calculations. Our article on Understanding RdSAP Conventions explores these requirements in more detail.
Practical Tips for Accurate Measurement
- Double-check unusual layouts, such as bay windows or angled walls, to ensure your floor areas are correct.
- Record measurements clearly in your site notes or app to avoid errors later.
- Be consistent in how you treat features like recesses, cupboards, and voids, in line with RICS and RdSAP guidance.
- Cross-check measurements when rooms appear irregular or unusually large/small compared to the property’s overall footprint.
Essential Tools for Measurement
Most DEAs use a laser distance measurer for speed and accuracy, supplemented by a tape measure for confined or awkward spaces. For recording, some DEAs prefer a clipboard or tablet, which can integrate directly with their assessment software.
Using Digital Solutions
Software such as Plan Up can simplify measuring and help you produce floor plans alongside your EPC. Integrating Plan Up with DEA software reduces duplication, improves accuracy, and offers the opportunity to provide clients with professional floor plans as an additional service.
Recording and Organising Measurements
Keeping clear, organised records of your measurements is essential. Our article on Managing Site Notes and Records explains methods for maintaining accurate records that can be easily referenced or uploaded to your software. Consistent record-keeping also supports smoother audits and demonstrates professionalism.
Linking Measurements to Site Efficiency
Accurate measuring contributes directly to efficiency on site. Planning your approach and taking measurements systematically helps reduce the time needed for each property. For tips on optimising your workflow, our article on Time Management on Assessments covers practical strategies for completing EPC visits efficiently.
Conclusion
Measuring for EPC floor plans accurately is essential for compliance, efficiency, and producing reliable reports. By following the RICS measuring guide, applying RdSAP conventions, and using tools like Plan Up, DEAs can streamline their workflow and add value to their service. For guidance on improving your on-site techniques or mentoring in best practice, please get in touch.
