What is an EPC?

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a building or property. It includes a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and offers recommendations on how to improve energy efficiency to reduce energy consumption and costs.

Does my business require and EPC?

Whether you need a commercial EPC depends on the type of property and the situation. Here's when a commercial EPC is required:

1. Selling or Leasing a Commercial Property

If you're selling, renting, or leasing out a commercial property, you are legally required to provide an EPC to potential buyers or tenants. This helps them understand the building's energy performance before committing.

2. Building or Altering a Property

If you're constructing a new commercial property or making major modifications that affect the building's energy performance (like adding extensions or changing heating systems), you'll need to get an EPC.

3. Major Renovations

If you're doing renovations that significantly change the structure or energy use of the building, an EPC may be required after the work is completed.

Exceptions:

• Temporary Buildings (used for less than 2 years).
• Places of Worship (churches, mosques, etc.).
• Stand-alone buildings under 50 square meters (unless they are living spaces).
• Buildings set for demolition where proper documentation is in place.

Current Non-domestic EPC requirements

EPC rating

Landlords cannot grant new or extend existing tenancies for non-domestic properties with an EPC rating of F or G. This applies to all privately rented non-domestic properties, including those that are already let. 

Exemptions

Landlords can apply for an exemption from the prohibition on letting sub-standard properties. Exemptions can be applied for if all possible improvements have been made and the property is still below an E rating. Landlords must register any exemptions on the PRS Exemptions Register. 

EPC rating target

The government are proposing the introduction of EPC-C rating by 2025, and EPC-B rating by 2030 for all private rented commercial properties.