An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) sets out the energy efficiency rating of a property. It also recommends how the efficiency of the property could be improved.
Practically all domestic and non-domestic buildings sold, let or constructed since 2008 must have an EPC. They must also have a revised EPC if they’ve been the subject of alteration, and the changes involve providing or extending fixed heating, air conditioning or mechanical ventilation systems.
New energy efficiency rules.
As part of the UK government’s net-zero by 2050 pledge, under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) introduced in 2018, it’s now unlawful for landlords to grant new leases or renewals of existing ones on commercial properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) below E.
The fact is that the energy we use for heating and powering non-domestic buildings is responsible for around 17% of UK GHG emissions, which are mainly the result of burning fossil fuels for heating.
But the government estimated that nearly one in five commercial properties failed to achieve a rating above F. By April 2023, MEES will apply to all privately rented property, making it an offence to continue to let a commercial space with an F or G EPC rating even in the middle of a lease term.
How do you get an Energy Performance Certificate?
From a commercial energy assessor. The type of assessor you’ll need will depend on the complexity and features of the building. If you need advice on choosing one, speak to a commercial (non-domestic) energy assessor or contact the approved accreditation scheme they belong to. We would also be very happy to recommend an assessor to meet your requirements.
How is an EPC Rating for a Commercial Building Calculated?
A qualified Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) will base an EPC rating on several factors, from the construction materials to the lighting used inside after examining the size of the building, the cavity wall and attic insulation, and HVAC system to assess the energy efficiency grade.
EPC Certificates are graded on a scale of A-G. The best result you can achieve is an A grade (most efficient) and the lowest being G (least efficient). An A result has a rating of 0-25. A zero-rating is defined as the performance of the building that has zero net annual CO2 emissions.
When do you need an EPC?
You must have an EPC if letting or selling a building, or if a building under construction is finished. You must also display an EPC in your commercial building if the total useful floor area is over 500 square metres, the building is frequently visited by the public, or if an EPC has already been produced for the building’s sale, rental or construction.
How can you Improve your building’s EPC Rating?
Insulation is one way. Poorly insulated roofs and walls can have a massive impact on the EPC rating. You could add insulation to brick or metal-clad properties, especially where there are cavity walls.
Ageing HVAC plant and equipment can be a significant factor in energy emissions. You could install more efficient boilers, variable-speed heating and cooling pumps and high-efficiency chillers.
You could also replace old fluorescent tubes and halogen bulbs with LEDs or more modern fluorescent lighting. As with heating, lighting controls can also dramatically reduce energy wastage in unused areas of the property.
And finally, you could invest in predictive maintenance through the use of sensors that track energy efficiency and calculate when systems may begin to underperform.
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At Louis Taylor, we have extensive experience in managing commercial investments. From single occupancy premises to larger multi let locations. If you have a commercial investment portfolio or are thinking of starting to invest do not hesitate to contact us directly and one of our team will be more than happy to offer advice and detail on the services we offer.
Contact our Commercial Team on info@louis-taylor.co.uk or call 01782 260 222 for more information.