Each level of assessment has its own data requirements. The lowest level of assessment, known as Level 0, requires just 10 data items in order to assess the approximate energy rating, energy use, CO2 emissions and fuel bills for a property. By making use of national averages, or of known stock characteristics, an authority can produce quantitiative estimates of energy use and efficiency based upon just the age and built form of the properties in the stock. What is more this system can produce progressively more accurate assessments of the stock as further information becomes available. NHER software provides a smooth upgrade path from the simplest starting point to a full property database system with detailed information on some or all properties.
Minimal training is required.
More detailed energy surveys can be completed using the new NHER Surveyor II system. This uses either a single page survey form or a data capture device to collect the minimum information required to deliver an accurate SAP rating. Use of this system requires a one day training to meet the strict NHER quality standards. Collecting and recording the data requires about 20 minutes per property or an additional 10 minutes if added to a stock condition survey. The strategy adopted by a local authority in meeting the statutory requirements set out in the Home Energy Conservation Act is likely to be constrained by the resources available and its experience with energy efficiency to date.