If you've never had a commercial EPC done before, it's natural to wonder what's involved. The good news is that it's a straightforward process with very little disruption. Here's what to expect, step by step, and how to help it go smoothly.
Step 1: Get in touch
To give you an accurate quote, I'll need a few basic details:
the property address
what the building is used for, such as office, shop, warehouse or industrial unit
its approximate floor area
why you need the EPC, for example a sale, a new letting or a completed new build
Floor plans are really helpful if you have them, but they aren't essential.
Step 2: Quote and booking
You'll get a clear quote, and we'll agree a time for the site visit that suits you or your tenant.
Step 3: The site visit
The survey is non-invasive. There's no drilling or damage. During the visit I'll:
measure the building and how it's divided into zones and rooms
record what each area is used for
note the construction, glazing and any visible insulation
record the heating, hot water, cooling and ventilation systems
check the lighting and how it's controlled
A small shop or office can often be surveyed in an hour or two. Larger or more complex buildings, such as big warehouses or multi-let offices, take longer.
Step 4: Calculating the rating
Back at the desk, the survey data is entered into government-approved software, which models the building's energy use and carbon emissions. For most commercial buildings this uses SBEM, the Simplified Building Energy Model. The result is a rating from A+ to G.
Step 5: Lodging your EPC
Finally, the EPC is lodged on the national EPC register, and you receive two documents:
the EPC, showing the rating
the recommendation report, setting out improvements that could raise the rating
Once lodged, the EPC can be viewed on the government's online register, and it's valid for 10 years.
How to help the visit go smoothly
Arrange access to every area, including plant rooms, stores and any locked offices.
Let tenants know about the visit in advance.
Share any plans or drawings you have.
Dig out details of the heating and air conditioning, such as service records or the make and model of boilers and units.
Mention any recent improvements, like new lighting or a replacement boiler, so they're taken into account.
What if the rating is lower than you hoped?
If you're letting the building, the rating matters because of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). I'll talk you through the recommendation report and the most practical options. You can read more in EPC B by 2031: What the New MEES Rules Mean for Lancashire Landlords.
Book your commercial EPC
I'm Tom, a Level 4 Non-Domestic Energy Assessor accredited with Elmhurst and ECMK, covering Manchester, Preston, Burnley, Blackburn, Accrington and surrounding areas. Get in touch with the property details and I'll send you a quote.