Who needs an EPC?
Who needs a Commercial Energy Performance Certificate?
Commercial Energy Performance certificates are being introduced so that the UK may meet the EU Energy Performance of Buildings directive.
Commercial EPCs have been phased in over the last 9 months, starting in April 2008 for very large buildings 10000m2+, in June for medium sized buildings 2500-10000m2+, and in October for buildings up to 2500m2.
Anyone who sells, lets or leases a Commercial building after these dates should have a Commercial EPC in place before the the property is marketed. This is required by your agent so that they can show the Certificate to prospective clients when the property details are given out. However, if you have a property already on the market before the 1st October then you should have a certificate by the 4th January 2009.
Enforcement of the legislation is through local Trading Standards Officers and penalties for non-compliance range from £500-£5000 on conviction or 12.5% of the properties rateable value but between the above figures. Penalties lie firmly with the property owner and not the selling agent, although all Agents owe a Duty of Care to their clients and should keep them fully informed of any develpments.
