Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Services

EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date of issue. However, it’s important to note that if you make significant changes to your property that could affect its energy performance – such as upgrading the heating system, improving insulation, or installing renewable energy technologies – it’s advisable to get a new EPC even if the current one hasn’t expired. This ensures that your EPC accurately reflects your property’s current energy efficiency status. Moreover, if you’re planning to sell or let the property, having an up-to-date EPC can be a valuable marketing tool, demonstrating recent improvements to potential buyers or tenants. 

While both domestic and non-domestic EPCs use an A-G rating system, there are significant differences in their assessment and reporting processes.

Non-domestic EPCs cover a wider range of building types and uses, often requiring more complex assessments. They take into account factors such as air conditioning systems, complex lighting arrangements, and specialised equipment that aren’t typically found in homes. Non-domestic EPCs also provide more detailed recommendations for improvements, considering the specific energy use patterns of commercial buildings. 

The duration of an EPC assessment can vary significantly depending on the size, complexity, and type of the property. A small office might take only a couple of hours, while a large industrial facility could require a full day or more. Factors that can influence the duration include the number of rooms or zones to be assessed, the complexity of the building services (heating, cooling, ventilation systems), the availability of building plans and previous energy data, and the ease of access to all areas of the property.

We always aim to conduct our assessments efficiently to minimise disruption to your business operations, while ensuring we gather all the necessary data for an accurate assessment. 

You can’t “fail” an EPC assessment in the traditional sense, but you can receive a poor rating (F or G).

It’s important to note that from April 2023, it’s illegal to continue letting a property with an F or G rating without a valid exemption. This is part of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations. If your property receives a low rating, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed, but it does indicate that there’s significant room for improvement in terms of energy efficiency.

Our assessors will provide detailed recommendations on how to improve your rating. An EPC is not just about compliance – it’s a valuable tool for understanding and enhancing your property’s energy performance. 

There are numerous ways to improve your EPC rating, ranging from simple, low-cost measures to more significant investments.

Common improvements include;

• upgrading insulation in walls, roofs, and floors;
• installing more efficient heating and cooling systems;
• switching to LED lighting; implementing better controls for heating and lighting;
• and installing renewable energy solutions like solar panels or heat pumps.

The most effective measures can vary depending on your specific building and its current performance. Our EPC report will provide tailored recommendations prioritised by their potential impact and cost-effectiveness.

It’s also worth noting that improving your EPC rating not only helps with compliance but can also lead to significant energy cost savings and enhance your property’s market value. 

The requirements for listed buildings and those in conservation areas can be complex. Listed buildings may be exempt from EPC requirements, but this isn’t automatic – it depends on the extent to which compliance with minimum energy performance requirements would unacceptably alter the building’s character or appearance. Buildings in conservation areas typically do require EPCs, unless they’re also listed. However, there may be restrictions on the types of energy efficiency improvements that can be made.

It’s important to consult with both energy efficiency experts and conservation specialists. We can advise on your specific situation, helping you navigate the balance between improving energy efficiency and preserving architectural heritage.