Basic FAQ relating to Energy Performance Certificates

What is an Energy Certificate
An Energy Performance Certificate ( 'EPC.' )is a statutory document prepared by a qualified and accredited Energy Assessor to provide information on the energy performance of a building. It gives an 'Asset Rating', which is a relative measure of the energy efficiency of the building. It also contains suggestions for improvement of the energy performance of the building.
Is this related to the 'Home Information Pack' and Domestic Energy Assessment
Yes. The underlying European legislation is the same, and it is now to be applied to commercial buildings. However, with the huge diversity of types and sizes, energy assessment of commercial buildings is vastly more complex.
When is an EPC Required
Like housing, an energy assessment and an EPC are required when commercial premises are sold or let. The EPC must be available to the prospective tenants or purchasers along with the property details. Unlike housing, a commercial property EPC lasts for ten years. Once certified, a property may be re-let or re-sold under the same EPC until its tenth anniversary.
Are there exceptions
Our understanding is that exemption is limited to properties of less that 50sqM commercial area, temporary buildings (< 2yrs life), and properties scheduled for demolition. EPC regulation does not apply to property where there is no 'conditioning' of the interior, (e.g. unheated barns). You are urged to verify your own circumstances independently.
What about Implementation of the regulation
The implementation is phased, and affects the largest buildings first. From 1st April, commercial premises of over 10,000sqM are required to have an EPC at transaction. From 1st July, this limit is reduced to premises of over 2,500sqM. Then from 1st October 2008, all commercial premises of 50sqM or over have to have an EPC.
How are the regulations to be enforced
Statutory enforcement rests with Trading Standards authorities; and fines for non-compliance are related to rateable value. However, we expect that buyers, tenants and their solicitors will be far more active in requiring information to which they are entitled.
Are newly constructed buildings included?
Yes. Buildings and extensions subject to Part L of the Building Regulations require a calculated prediction of their energy performance. Part L now also requires an Energy Assessment of the completed building. The resulting EPC must be provided by the constructor to the owner, and to the Building Regulations authorities before their Completion Certificate can be issued.
Are newly constructed buildings included?
Yes. Buildings and extensions subject to Part L of the Building Regulations require a calculated prediction of their energy performance. Part L now also requires an Energy Assessment of the completed building. The resulting EPC must be provided by the constructor to the owner, and to the Building Regulations authorities before their Completion Certificate can be issued.
Where can I get more information
You can visit the Energy Performance section of the Governments Communities Website.
click here