What is a commercial EPC?
Commercial EPC ratings explained
A commercial EPC is a standardised document that provides information about the current energy efficiency of a non-domestic (ND) building, rating it on a scale from A(A+) as the most efficient with G being the least efficient.
The certification process also provides actionable recommendations for improving energy performance, reducing operational costs and reducing carbon footprint – which can all make a property more attractive to potential tenants or buyers and as a result may add significant value to your asset(s) due to higher demand, and in turn contribute to higher rental or sale revenue.
Commercial EPCs are required by law for all non-domestic buildings in the UK, regardless of size or purpose, and the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) directive dictates that these premises must reach at least an ‘E’ rating, rising to a ‘C’ by 2028 and a ‘B’ by 2030.
Without an EPC a building cannot be sold or rented, while failure to hold an EPC and comply with the government’s minimum standards can also result in penalties, restrictions of use or large fines of up to £150,000.
Commercial EPCs last for 10 years.
Commercial EPCs (Energy Rating Certificates) are required for all non-domestic properties – the latest UK government white paper sets a target for all commercial premises in England and Wales to achieve a ‘C’ rating by 2028 and a ‘B’ rating by 2030.
Types of commercial EPC:
There are three levels of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) for non-domestic buildings, which are split by their complexity:
- Level 3: Simple commercial buildings with common characteristics and basic air-conditioning systems (e.g., small shops, restaurants).
- Level 4: More complex buildings with advanced HVAC systems or new builds (e.g., large office buildings, large shops).
- Level 5: Buildings with specific features like atriums or automatic blind control, requiring detailed modelling software for energy performance assessment.