Energy Performance Certificate - Non-Domestic Energy Performance Certificates

Non-Domestic Energy Performance Certificates

In addition to the requirements in relation to dwellings there is also a requirement for EPCs on the sale, rent or construction of buildings other than dwellings with a floor area greater than 50m2 from 6 April 2008, that contain fixed services that condition the interior environment.

Properties that are exempt from requiring a domestic EPC will generally require a non-dwelling energy performance certificate, which was also required by the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. Commercial properties and public buildings currently account for nearly 25% of the UK's carbon emissions, contributing to global climate change.

All non-dwelling EPCs must be carried out by, or under the direct supervision of, a trained non-domestic energy assessor, registered with an approved accreditation body. DCLG has arranged for a publicly accessible central register of such assessors maintained by the Landmark Information Group.

There are three levels of building, Level 3, Level 4 and Level 5. The complexity and the services used by that building will determine which level it falls under. They are as follows:

Level 3 = Small buildings, with heating systems less than 100kW and cooling systems less than 12kW

Level 4 = purpose built buildings, with heating systems greater than 100kW and cooling systems greater than 12kW

Level 5 = Larger buildings that are complex in shape

A Commercial Energy Assessor must be qualified to the level of the building to carry out the inspection

From October 2008 all buildings including factories, offices, retail premises and public sector buildings - must have an EPC whenever the building is sold, built or rented. Public buildings in England and Wales (but not Scotland) also require a Display Energy Certificate showing actual energy use, and not just the theoretical energy rating. From January 2009 inspections for air conditioning systems will be introduced.