Certain commercial properties which currently have an energy performance certificate (EPC) are now required to display it following legislation which came into force yesterday.
The new requirement applies to properties over 500 sq. m. in size which are “frequently visited by the public.” However, businesses will not be compelled to obtain an EPC if one is not already available.
Where buildings are multi-occupied but have a common heating system, as in the case of office blocks, one EPC for the entire building is sufficient.
The reason for the rule change is to raise awareness of energy use and make visitors aware of how the building performs. EPCs rate properties from A to G on energy performance with A being the most efficient in CO2 emissions and G being the least efficient.
This information is then reflected in the certificate which is given a unique reference number and recorded on a national register so that it can be validated. The seller or landlord of a commercial property must provide an EPC to prospective buyers or tenants.
In addition to displaying EPCs businesses must also be able to produce the accompanying advisory report, which gives recommendations on how they can improve the building’s energy performance.
The new legislation also applies to public buildings of the same size “that are occupied in whole or part by public authorities and are frequently visited by the public.” These properties must exhibit a display energy certificate (DEC) which is clearly visible to the public.
However private organisations or businesses sharing a building with a public body may elect to display a certificate but are not required by law to do so.
Failure to comply with the new rules will result a £500 fine for failing to display an EPC or £1,000 for not having an advisory report.
The legislation also demands that commercial property advertisements should include the building’s EPC rating.
