What Is a Commercial EPC?
A Commercial EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is an official document that rates the energy efficiency of non-domestic buildings from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
Our Non-Domestic Energy Assessor will use the SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) methodology to calculate the energy rating of your commercial property. During the onsite survey, we'll assess:
- The building's fabric and its insulation
- Heating, Ventilation & Cooling (HVAC) systems
- Lighting
- Room volumes
EPCs support compliance with Building Regulations Part L and the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), and help buyers and tenants estimate likely running costs. Each report includes recommendations to improve the rating and reduce energy costs.
Who Needs a Commercial EPC?
Having a Commercial EPC is a legal requirement for property transactions in the UK. You need one when you are:
- Building a commercial property
- Selling a commercial property
- Leasing a commercial property
Our customers also ask for a Non-Domestic EPC when they are trying to meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for rentals. The minimum rating is currently an E Band for most leased commercial property. Government has consulted on raising these minimum standards.
Many lenders are now asking for a valid EPC when remortgaging commercial property too. To protect their investment, they usually enforce Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards as part of the lending decision in line with the government standards. Some offer discounts for higher rated properties too.
Every Commercial Energy Performance Certificate is valid for ten years, unless it has been replaced by another one. You may already have one. You can check on the official Commercial EPC Register.
