FAQs

Q. How long are the EPCs valid for?
A. An EPC as a standalone document is valid for 10 years or until replaced with a newer one. (A domestic EPC can be used in a HIP pack up to 3 years old.)
Q. Why does a commercial EPC cost more than a domestic one?
A. The difference in prices arises as the amount of information required; the calculations and data inputting depend on how the building is being modelled - domestic property is modelled using a reduced set of data and makes assumptions in relation to its age etc, whereas every element within a commercial property has to be accounted for, calculated and input.
Q. Do I have to act on recommendations?
A. You are under no obligation to act on recommendations for energy improvements to the building. However, taking action on the recommendations is likely to improve the energy efficiency of your building, reduce your fuel bills, cut its carbon emissions and could make it more attractive to potential buyers or tenants in the future.

Q. Are any commercial buildings exempt?
A. Yes; the following are exempt
·         Places of Worship
·         Temporary Buildings In Use For Less Than 2 Years (Site Buildings for example)
·         A commercial building which is due to be demolished.
·         Low Energy Demand Buildings (ones that are deemed to have be an unconditioned space, such as a barn or a warehouse/storage area where people are not working continuously. Does not mean ‘shell and core’)
·         Stand Alone Building Less than 50 sq.m. (must be 'standalone', i.e. detached e.g. Sheds, summer houses or small shop at a garage forecourt. A 45 sq.m. corner shop within a terrace is not standalone.)

Q. Why bother, will anything happen if I don't get an EPC?
A. Yes: Trading Standards are the body in charge with policing compliance and may issue a civil penalty notice for a breach and have an active policy of checking compliance. Fines range from £200 for dwellings and up to £5000 for commercial premises.
Q. Who can carry out the assessments?
A. Only qualified assessors can out assessments but confusingly there are 4 different types of assessor or assessments dependant on whether the property is residential/commercial/existing/new build and there are further sub categories for commercial assessors. Different types of software and licences are used to assess different types of property.