Similarly to Domestic properties, if you are buying or renting business premises, an EPC enables you to consider energy efficiency and potential energy costs.

EPCs are also required for buildings with multiple tenancies and let for different uses, with a mixture of retail, office and/or residential accommodation.

Who should obtain the EPC?

• Existing commercial premises being sold ? The owner must obtain the EPC
   
  This should be done no later than the day on which a viewing is carried out, or written information is provided about the premises.
   
• Existing commercial premises being rented out ? The Owner or Landlord must obtain the EPC
   
  An EPC must be provided as early as possible to prospective tenants, ie when viewings are conducted and written information provided, but definitely before the contract is signed. This applies even if an agent or other service organisation represents them or actually provides the EPC to the prospective tenants. Landlords should therefore make sure that their agents are meeting their duties. When letting business premises, the number of EPCs required will vary according to the use and tenancy arrangements of each building.
   
  • In either scenario, the very latest that an EPC can be provided will be when the contract to sell or let premises is arranged.
     
  • Please note that existing occupiers and tenants will not require an EPC unless they sell, assign or sublet their interest to that property.
     
  • When letting business premises, the number of EPCs required will vary according to the use and tenancy arrangements of each building.
     
  • For new buildings recently constructed, or when carrying out certain types of refurbishment or modification work, it is the builder who must provide an EPC.

Enforcement
 
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements are enforced by local authorities - usually trading standards officers - who can ask for a copy of an EPC from the owner or landlord of business premises at any time up to six months after the date on which they should have provided one.

Please be aware that If you do not make an EPC available to a prospective buyer or tenant when selling or letting non-dwellings, the penalty is fixed, in most cases, at 12.5 per cent of the rateable value of the building. If this formula cannot be applied, the default penalty is £750.

Commercial EPC's from The Energy Portal

the-energy-portal has teamed up with one of the UK's leading Commercial EPC providers, the management team of which combine over 40 years experience working in international blue chip professional services consulting and are leading exponents of training and excellence in this sector.

This enviable reputation combined with the superb customer service offered through the-energy-portal provides an ideal opportunity to effectively complete your national Commercial EPC requirements through one central portal - the-energy-portal!

Please use the Online Form to obtain a quotation for a Commercial EPC or Contact Us if you would like further information.