Energy Performance Certificates for businesses
Background to EPCs
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates how energy efficient your building is using grades from A to G, with A being the most efficient grade. These are a legal requirement and is a business owner’s responsibility to apply and pay for an EPC. Unless you are exempt from needing one, you may face a penalty charge if you do not comply.
Businesses that need an Energy Performance Certificate
Nearly all commercial premises in the UK will need an Energy Performance Certificate. The government requirements state that you need one when:
• You rent out or sell your premises.
• A building under construction is completed.
• Changes are made to the parts of the building for separate occupation, involving any changes or additions to heating, air, and ventilation systems.
Areas examined include:
• Building type, size, and age
• Building construction and fabrics
• Heating, ventilation, and cooling systems
• Hot water and lighting systems
• Existing energy-saving devices
MEES – Minimum energy efficiency standards for commercial buildings
A new legal standard for energy efficiency came into place in April 2018 and affects landlords, investors, developers, and lenders. The MEES legislation was first introduced in March 2015 and it uses the Energy Performance Certificate rating to determine what is acceptable.
Currently and up to 2023, properties must have a valid EPC rating of E or better. From 2023 that EPC rating moves up to D, from 2030 it is thought that this rating will move to C and above, although this is still to be confirmed.
