Why and When Do You Need a Commercial EPC Certificate?
A Commercial Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is received when a survey is performed to determine the energy efficiency of a commercial building or premises. Upon completion of the survey, the property is given an energy efficiency rating.
The least energy-efficient rating is given a “G” grade. An “A” rating is awarded to the most energy-efficient buildings. The energy efficiency surveys take into account things like building materials and fabrics, heating systems, ventilation, cooling systems, and lighting installations. However, they don’t consider how these utilities are actually used by the occupier of the building.
Why do you need a commercial EPC certificate?
Commercial EPCs became a requirement for properties in European Union member states. They are part of an initiative to improve energy efficiency within European countries. Improving the energy efficiency of properties helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions and makes sure that there are adequate energy reserves for the medium and long-term.
The introduction of this initiative targets businesses with the aim of encouraging the use of renewable energy. This reduces the use of non-renewable energy, which has harmful effects on the environment.
It also gives governments the necessary tools and criteria to enforce and maintain a more environmentally conscious marketplace. Some of the reasons for doing so include:
- Sets a standard and consistent protocol for measuring and rating the energy performance and efficiency of a building and its utilities.
- Creates a list of minimum efficiency requirements for commercial properties and large buildings.
- Grants property owners an authenticated document proving that they’ve met the required standards. This can also be displayed publicly as a PR move.
- Provides a platform to suggest efficiency improvements on appliances and utilities.
- Alerts property owners and makes them aware of the efficiency of their properties.
To summarize, you need a commercial EPC certificate to prove that your premises have met the minimum efficiency requirements outlined by the government.
A commercial EPC assessor checks property and inspects whether or not they have a certificate.
If a property owner fails to produce a valid commercial EPC, they can face significant penalties. There is an immediate minimum £500 fine, and the owner must still hand over a valid permit after inspections. There is also a severe penalty if an owner doesn’t present a potential buyer or tenant with a valid certificate.
There are special circumstances where some buildings are exempt from needing an EPC certificate.
When do you need a commercial EPC certificate?
A commercial EPC in the north east and whole of the UK is a legal requirement if you have a commercial property that you are intending on renting or selling. When a new commercial premise is constructed, it will also need to be surveyed for an EPC certificate.
Once you receive your commercial EPC, it is valid for ten years. If for any reason, an additional survey is carried out, the most recent certificate is the only one that is valid.
If significant changes to the structure, utilities, and appliances of the building take place, a new EPC certificate might be necessary. If there is a noteworthy extension added to the premises, there will be a need for a new EPC.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact LJ Energy Surveys. Or to directly book an EPC for one of your buildings please visit our request an inspection page.