WHAT IS AN EPC?

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) are being introduced across Europe to help improve the energy efficiency of buildings and cut carbon emissions. Half of the UK’s carbon emissions are produced by buildings. The surveyor carrying out the EPC will look into how the building is constructed, how and to what extent it is insulated, how it is heated and ventilated and the type of fuel used. All these elements will allow him to produce an EPC certificate with an advisory report.

WHEN IS IT REQUIRED?

When you start marketing for sale the lease hold or freehold of a commercial premises or when you assign or grant a commercial lease.

SO WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T GET ONE?

The penalty for failing to make an EPC available to any prospective buyer or tenant when selling or letting non-dwellings is fixed at 12.5% of the rateable value of the building, subject to a maximum penalty of £5,000.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

That depends on lots of facts. Obviously the size and complexity of building, whether floor plans are available and the availability of supporting information for heating and A/C systems.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO GET ONE?

An EPC lasts for 10 years, but if there is substantial alteration to the building within that time a further EPC will need to be prepared.