Answers to Questions
FAQs
At Greener Homes London, we understand that you may have numerous questions about making eco-friendly choices for your home. To help you navigate your journey towards sustainability, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions. Our aim is to provide simple answers without delving into complex technical jargon that can often confuse rather than clarify.
We also recognise that misleading headlines and sensationalised news can sometimes cloud your judgement regarding green initiatives. That’s why we strive to present clear, accurate information that empowers you to make informed decisions about your home. If there’s anything you need more clarity on or if we've missed a specific concern, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team is here to assist you and will do our utmost to provide you with the answers you seek.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate- EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy-efficient a property is in the UK, rating it from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Required when a property is built, sold, or rented, an EPC for UK homes provides recommendations on how to improve energy efficiency, helping you reduce carbon emissions and save on energy bills with services like those from Greener Homes London.
What is a Retrofit Assessment?
A Retrofit Assessment is a structured, on‑site evaluation of a UK home carried out by a qualified Retrofit Assessor under the PAS 2035 framework. Its purpose is to understand how a property currently performs, identify risks, and provide the technical evidence needed to design safe, effective, and cost‑efficient energy‑efficiency improvements.
What does a Retrofit Assessment Include?
1. RdSAP Assessment (Energy Performance)
Collects data on walls, floors, roofs, windows, heating systems, ventilation, and insulation.
Produces an EPC-style model of the home’s current energy performance.
2. Occupancy Assessment
Looks at how the residents actually use the home: heating patterns, hot water demand, appliance use, comfort preferences.
Ensures recommendations match real-life behaviour, not just theoretical models.
3. Condition Survey
Identifies defects that could affect retrofit measures — damp, mould, leaks, structural issues, ventilation problems.
Essential for preventing unintended consequences like condensation or trapped moisture.
4. Ventilation Assessment
Checks whether the home has adequate background and extract ventilation.
Determines whether ventilation upgrades are required before or alongside insulation measures.
5. Measure Suitability & Risk Assessment
Evaluates which measures are appropriate (e.g., insulation, heat pumps, solar PV, glazing).
How do Heat Pumps Work?
A heat pump is basically a fridge in reverse -
The 4 Step Heat Pump Process
1
It absorbs heat from outside air
A special fluid (refrigerant) picks up heat from the air, even at low temperatures.
2
It compresses the fluid
Compressing the fluid makes it much hotter — like pumping up a bike tyre and feeling it warm up.
3
It transfers that heat into your home
The hot fluid warms your radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water tank.
4
It cools down and repeats
The refrigerant cools, goes back outside, and picks up more heat. It’s a loop — running constantly but efficiently.