Domestic & Commercial EPC's

An EPC is intended to inform potential buyers or tenants about the energy performance of a building, so they can consider energy efficiency as part of their investment or business decision to buy or occupy a building.

The EPC provides an energy rating, called an Asset Rating, for a building, based on the performance of the fabric of the building itself and its services, such as heating, ventilation and lighting. The Asset Rating is shown in a graphical format on a scale from A (more efficient) to G less efficient) as well as giving a numerical value.

These ratings can then be used to make comparisons with comparable properties.
The vendor/lessor has the responsibility for providing the EPC with the building particulars at the time of sale or lease. These requirements are enforced by local Trading Standards Officers, who have the powers to fine vendors/lessors for non-compliance.

When an EPC is provided, it is accompanied by a recommendation report, which provides recommendations on how the energy performance of the building could be enhanced, together with an indication of the likely payback period.

EPCs are not required on some types of building such as places of worship, those
with low energy demand and those scheduled for demolition. See the DCLG website
for a more detailed list of exclusions.
An EPC is not required on lease renewals or lease surrenders.

Only qualified energy assessors may carry out energy assessments and
issue EPCs. An energy assessor must also be a member of a Government
approved accreditation scheme. These schemes are responsible for registering
EPCs on a national database and for ensuring the quality of EPCs produced.
Once an energy assessor has been commissioned to produce an EPC, an
inspection of the building is made, which together with data from drawings and
other sources is used to generate an energy model for the property.

Information

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive has introduced new certification requirements for all commercial buildings across Europe.
Property owners and landlords will not be able to complete any property transactions without having an EPC. Implementation dates and the level of certificate needed are being phased in based on building size and complexity.
When do you need a certificate by?

England:
From 6th April 2008 all Commercial buildings greater than 10,000m sq
From 1st July 2008 all Commercial buildings greater than 2,500m sq
From 1st October all Commercial buildings greater than 50m sq

EPC's are required from 1st October 2008 for all "conditioned" commercial buildings over 50sq metre when they are sold, let, modified (building fabric or services) or constructed. A "conditioned" building is one with a roof and walls which uses energy to condition the indoor climate i.e. some levels of heating, mechanical ventilation or cooling.