An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement
for any leased premises, making it a necessary consideration for
both landlords and tenants. Buildings are currently responsible for
around 40 per cent of the UK's energy consumption and carbon
emissions, and EPCs promote improvement in their energy
performance.

What does the EPC cover?

The EPC shows the energy efficiency rating of a property, on an
A-G rating scale similar to those used in electrical
appliances.

The certificate also includes recommendations for ways in which
the building can improve its efficiency levels, though there are
currently no statutory requirements to actually carry out the
work.  Sometimes the certificate will also include information
indicating which measures would be eligible for finance under the
Green Deal scheme.

EPCs for commercial properties must be produced by an accredited
non-domestic energy assessor that's a member of a
government-approved accreditation scheme. The seller or landlord
should provide the EPC free of charge to prospective tenants at the
earliest possible opportunity.

Estate agents will be responsible for ensuring that an EPC has
been commissioned before the property is put up for sale or rent:
if you HAVEN'T been told or given the EPC and are in the process of
obtaining a new property, ask for it.  The EPC should also be
displayed on any commercial advertising.

EPCs are valid for 10 years, and can be re-used wherever
necessary in the same time period. It's not necessary to obtain a
new one each time the tenancy changes.  If more than one EPC
has been produced, the most recent one is considered valid.

If the commercial premises are larger than 500m2, then the EPC
must be displayed if the public frequently visit the building.

 

 

 

 

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