Vendors and landlords are required by law to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for all buildings, or parts of buildings, when they are sold or rented.

An Energy Performance Certificate gives prospective buyers or tenants information on the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of a building using an A-G rating, similar to those now found on domestic appliances, and offers recommendations for improvement. The ratings are standard, so the energy efficiency of a building can be compared to that of another similar property

The vendor or landlord is responsible for ensuring that an EPC is available to a prospective purchaser or tenant at the earliest opportunity before written marketing information is provided about the building and before viewing by prospective purchasers

EPCs are valid for a period of 10 years, or until superceded by a newer EPC.

The penalty for failing to produce an EPC is 12.5% of the rateable value of the property, subject to a minimum penalty of £500 and capped at a maximum of £5,000.

The law has been in effect since 4th January 2009 for all commercial properties.

Should you require an EPC, Preferred Commercial can recommend an accredited assessor in your area. Contact our office on 08448 711 484 or email us at enquiries@preferredcommercial.co.uk