Do I need an EPC?
From 6th April 2008 there is a statutory obligation on a vendor or landlord to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) on the marketing for sale or letting of a commercial properties with floor areas larger than 50m2.
When an EPC is required an assessment must be carried out by an accredited energy assessor who will inspect the building and issue and EPC together with an advisory report on how energy use can be reduced.
Enforcement will be by the Local Authority and failure to comply can be dealt with by a fine of 12.5% of the rateable value subject to a minimum of fine of £500 and a maximum of £5,000. Appeals will be to the County Court. Lawyers are increasingly likely to request EPC’s as part of their due diligence process and the absence of the same could delay a transaction.
An EPC will last for 10 years unless the building is altered in the mean time in such a way that requires it to have a new EPC.
In producing an EPC an assessor will need to review:
- All building elements including walls, floors, roofs, windows and levels of insulation.
- Extent and efficiency of heating and air conditioning systems, lighting and controls.
A recommendation report is included with and EPC which, if followed, will help improve the energy rating of the building and add to its marketability.
From 6th April 2008 there is a statutory obligation on a vendor or landlord to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) on construction, or for marketing for sale or letting of a commercial property with a floor area larger than 50m2. For ease of reference follow the flow chart to find out if your building requires an EPC HERE.