Will you need a new EPC every time you let a commercial building?
As long as a valid EPC exists for the building, you can supply this to prospective tenants. An EPC is valid for 10 years and during this period you can provide the same EPC to prospective tenants. This EPC will no longer be valid if a newer EPC has been obtained.

Will you need a new EPC every time you sell a commercial building?
As long as a valid EPC exists for the building, you can supply this to prospective buyers. An EPC is valid for 10 years and during this period you can provide the same EPC to prospective buyers. This EPC will no longer be valid if a newer EPC has been obtained.

When is an EPC required for a new-build non-dwelling?
When a building being constructed is physically complete, it is the responsibility of the person carrying out the constructionto give an EPC and recommendations report to the owner of the building and to notify Building Control that this has been done.Building Control will not issue a certificate of completion until they are satisfied this has been done.

What if a building is required urgently for rental and there is no time to commission an inspection?
This is permissible under the regulations if there is an emergency requiring a tenant’s urgent relocation. An EPC should be provided as soon as practicable after renting out the building.


What is the difference between Levels 3 & 4?
This refers to the complexity of the building - Level 4 requiring a greater level of expertise. The main characteristic of a Level 4 building will be a complicated heating/air conditioning/ventilation system. Our Energy Assessor will be able to advise as to whether a Level 3 or Level 4 assessment is required. We have Energy Assessors trained to both levels.

How much is the EPC likely to cost?
We expect the cost of inspection and production of an EPC to be £350 plus VAT for the smallest Level 3 buildings. Cost will rise with the increase in size, complexity and level of inspection.

How long will the EPC be valid?
Commercial property Energy Performance Certificates are valid for 10 years, but will have to be reissued or amended in the interim if there have been major modifications that might change or increase the energy requirement of the building concerned. Installation of air conditioning, for example, would trigger the need for a new certificate.

When should the EPC be made available?
The EPC must be made available to a prospective buyer or tenant before entering a contract for sale, or lease, and no later than the release of marketing materials for the property, or the request for a visit to the property being marketed for sale or lease.

What is the penalty for non-compliance?
The certification process will be enforced by Trading Standards. Failure to comply could mean a fine of up to £5000