Commercial EPC Ratings
As people continue to look for new ways to maximise their home’s energy efficiency, it’s no surprise that commercial EPC ratings have become an increasingly important consideration. After all, they provide homeowners and developers alike with vital information surrounding the building’s overall energy performance. With this, areas in which energy efficiency can be improved are identified, assisting with government compliance, all whilst reducing bills. But what does this all mean?
What are Commercial EPC Ratings?
If you weren’t already aware, EPC stands for ‘Energy Performance Certificate’. Essentially, these certificates provide an indication of how much energy a property uses and loses. It tells you how costly it will be to power your home, as well as its likely carbon dioxide emissions. EPC ratings are measured on a scale from ‘A’ being the most efficient to ‘G’ being the least. It’s very similar to the stickers you’ll find on your household appliances.
How Can I Calculate My EPC Rating?
In order to determine this, you must first calculate your property’s Standard Assessment Protocol (SAP) score. Following this, an Energy Assessment Survey must be carried out by a certified professional at the property. The assessor will look at all the ways your property is using and losing energy. Some of these factors may include:
- The use of renewable technologies around your property.
- The availability of carbon offsetting solutions within your home.
- The heating, cooling, hot water and ventilation systems present.
- The properties floor and loft insulation.
When calculating your SAP score and therefore commercial EPC ratings, you’ll be graded between 1 and 100. The higher your score, the more energy efficient your property is. You want to aim for a score of 100, meaning your property produces just as much energy as it uses.
What are the current regulations?
For rental properties within the UK, you require a minimum EPC rating of E (SAP score between 39 and 54). Under current plans, however, a C rating will become mandatory for new tenancies in 2025, and all tenancies by 2028.
Do I Really Need an EPC?
Absolutely. As a landlord, your property cannot legally be let if you don’t have an EPC rating. Failure to do so can result in fines of up to £5,000. Following the introduction of the new legislation in 2025, not having a valid EPC rating of ‘C’ or above may result in fines upwards of £30,000.
Aside from this, for tenants, commercial EPC ratings of C can reduce annual energy bills by as much a £750. This also depends on other factors such as how you use your appliances and how long for, of course, but the energy efficiency of your home plays a big role.
How Can You Improve your EPC Rating?
When you receive your EPC from the assessor, alongside your rating, they will also provide some areas of improvement. Some of these may include:
- Fixing draughts.
- Ensuring walls, roofs, floors, and lofts are all insulated correctly.
- Upgrading incandescent light bulbs to LEDs.
- Replacing windows with double or triple glazing.
- Installing a smart meter.
- Investing in renewable energy.
Contact Us
If you’re looking to improve your commercial EPC ratings, why not get in touch? Call us today on 01245 326 200 or click here to reach the team!