Commercial Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

What is an Energy Performance Certificate or EPC?

An Energy Performance Certificate is a document generated to provide an energy efficiency rating for a property.  The rating calculated will range from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).  The Certificate also gives guidance on the environmental impact rating of the building.  EPCs generated for existing buildings additionally list recommended measures to reduce fuel use and increase efficiency.

What type of Energy Performance Certificate do I need?

  • Commercial or Non-domestic EPCs. Commercial EPCs are needed for all commercial buildings where exemption criteria do not apply.  The EPC is produced by use of iSBEM non-domestic EPC modelling software following detailed building inspection, with the resulting Certificate being lodged in a public database.  DHKK assessors are qualified and accredited to produce EPCs for non-domestic buildings and the firm will be delighted to discuss your assessment requirements.  It is also possible that your commercial building will need a Section 63 Action Plan assessment – please click here to find out more.
  • Residential or domestic EPCs. Residential EPCs are needed for existing dwellings.  Properties in this category may be either owner-occupied or subject to tenancy.  Assessment is made using reduced data RdSAP software, with the resulting EPC being lodged in a public database.  DHKK assessors are qualified and accredited to produce EPCs for existing dwellings and the firm will be delighted to discuss your assessment requirements.
  • On-construction EPCs. On-construction EPC assessment is needed for new-build residential property as part of the building warrant process.  The assessment determines projected performance of the proposed building and is a key part of demonstration of energy efficiency compliance.  The assessment is detailed and uses full SAP software to model performance.  DHKK assessors are qualified and accredited to produce On-construction assessments and the firm will be happy to discuss your warrant application requirements.

When do I need to get an EPC?

There are three instances where EPCs are required:

  • When a property is built
  • When a property is being sold
  • Where a property is being rented

Certain other circumstances also demand preparation of an EPC such as applications for Green Deal finance.  There are, however, a number of instances where a property may be exempt from the requirement.  DHKK will be happy to discuss your property and potential obligations for EPC provision.

How long will my EPC last?

An EPC will in most circumstances last for a period of 10 years.  There are certain situations where provision of an updated EPC may be necessary.  Where a property is significantly altered, reassessment will be required.  Where grant-funded improvement works have been completed it may also be a condition for the property to be reassessed in order to verify the improvement in performance.  Certain other instances also exist where reassessment will be necessary within the 10 year EPC life-expectancy period.