Commercial EPCs Explained: Ratings, Cost and Validity
Written by Scott Jones, founder of CommercialPropertyKiln · Last updated
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An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a commercial building from A to G and drives your MEES obligations. Here is how commercial EPCs work.
Assessment levels
Commercial EPCs are produced at different assessment levels depending on the building's complexity, from simpler buildings up to those with complex heating and cooling systems. A qualified non-domestic energy assessor carries out the assessment and lodges the certificate.
Cost and validity
A commercial EPC typically costs more than a domestic one and varies with the size and complexity of the building. A commercial EPC is valid for 10 years. A valid EPC is required to let, and a certificate must be provided to prospective tenants before they commit.
The recommendations report
Every EPC comes with a recommendations report listing measures that would improve the rating, with indicative payback. This is the starting point for any improvement plan and supporting evidence for some MEES exemptions.
What the rating means for letting
The rating drives MEES: F or G cannot be let without an exemption. If your certificate is near the end of its 10-year life, or you have made improvements since it was issued, commission a fresh assessment so the rating reflects the current building. See improving a commercial EPC and the MEES guide.
How long is a commercial EPC valid?
Ten years. A valid EPC is required to let, and must be provided to prospective tenants before they commit.
Who produces a commercial EPC?
A qualified non-domestic energy assessor, at an assessment level that depends on the building's complexity.