The basics of…

Energy Performance Certificates

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires Energy Performance Certificates (EPC's) and Display Energy Certificates (DEC's) to be available on all buildings in certain specific circumstances such as when newly built, when sold or let to a tenant. Different legislation applies in England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and the dates on when such legislation applies is also different for different property types.

For domestic property, in England and Wales an EPC must be made available as part of a Home Information Pack when a property is sold. In Northern Ireland the EPC is required at the point of marketing and in Scotland, from the 1st December 2008, an Energy Report will be required to be included with the Home Report which will additionally include a Single Survey.

For commercial buildings, an Energy Performance Certificate must be provided each time a building is constructed, sold or let. This includes all types of buildings from small local shops, high street multiples, office buildings through to large industrial buildings and warehouses.

For Public Buildings of a certain size which are occupied by public authorities, Display Energy Certificates are a requirement showing the buildings operational rating and how efficiently the building is being used in terms of energy saving measures.

For more details on Energy Performance Certificate requirements for residential or commercial properties please click on the relevant link opposte.