What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) details the building’s energy efficiency compared to a notional building with the same age and use characteristics. They are required for all leases, sales and purchases and are rated from A+ (highest) to G (lowest) with EPC’s below an E rating having restrictions placed on them for any lettings due to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations.
EPC’s are legally required to sell, purchase and lease (including renewals) for all commercial buildings.
The UK Government set a target for all commercial buildings to have a minimum C rating by 2027.
Why EPC’s are Essential
Since 2008, the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations (2007) have required all UK properties sold, rented, or newly built to hold an A–G rated Energy Performance Certificate. From 2018, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) mandate a minimum EPC rating of E for commercial buildings, with non-compliance (F/G) subject to fines and lease restrictions.
Who Needs an Energy Performance Certificate?
EPC’s are required for commercial buildings, domestic dwellings, new builds, and any rented or sold properties as specified by the Energy Performance of Building Regulations (2012). We provide EPC’s for multiple buildings:
All Commercial Buildings
Industrial Estates
Commercial Warehouses
All Office Buildings
Shops and Entertainment Venues
All Data Centres
Hospitals and Surgeries
All Historic and Specialised Buildings
Hotels and Hospitality Buildings
Any Public Houses and Restaurants
How is a Building Graded?
EPC ratings use a scale from A-G. A being the highest rating and G being the lowest. A higher rating means lower energy bills and a lower rating indicates a less efficient building with higher running costs.
- A+ & A: the highest ratings, A+ is for properties which have a net zero carbon usage
- B & C: Above Average and Average Efficiency respectively
- D, E & F: Below Average Efficiency
- G: The lowest rating for energy efficiency and below the MEES minimum standards
How Is Energy Performance Assessed?
01
Client Engagement
In order to provide an accurate quote, we require the building’s location, total floor area, and any relevant supporting documentation, such as specifications and floor plans. You may also provide additional information, including operational schedules and the intended purpose of the quote (e.g., sale, purchase, or leasing). Once we have received and reviewed these details, we will confirm the quote and schedule a site assessment at a convenient time.
02
Site Visit and Data Collection
A qualified energy assessor conducts a thorough, non intrusive survey of the property, examining its layout, lighting, insulation, and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. During the survey, the assessor collects data and measurements, including building dimensions and system specifications, which directly influence the property’s energy performance.
03
Assessment and Analysis
Our team carefully inputs all collected data into accredited EPC software. The software then calculates the property’s energy efficiency rating using established specifications determined by the most recent legislation. The assessment takes into account the data collected in the site visit and determines the overall energy performance of the building. A full QA audit for all assessments is carried out prior to the issuance of certificate.
04
Preparation and Publication of EPC Report
We produce the official Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) report, which provides an overview of the property’s energy efficiency. The report details the calculated energy rating. This document serves as an authoritative record for compliance, property transactions, and informed decision-making regarding energy improvements.
05
Supply of Certificates
The EPC is delivered to the client in digital format, ensuring accessibility and convenience. In addition, the EPC is formally registered with the National EPC Register, providing an official record that complies with statutory requirements. This registration ensures the certificate is legally recognized for property transactions, and regulatory compliance.
06
Follow-Up Support
We provide expert guidance on recommended energy efficiency improvements through detailed Compliance Modelling, enabling property owners and managers to understand potential performance enhancements. In addition, we offer comprehensive support with compliance-related inquiries, helping clients navigate statutory requirements and reporting obligations.
07
Evidence Re-inspection
We conduct a follow-up site visit to verify that recommended energy efficiency improvements have been implemented. During this visit, our assessors review the property’s updated systems and operational practices to ensure compliance with prior recommendations. Based on the findings, we revise the EPC rating to reflect the revised energy performance, providing an up-to-date record for regulatory compliance and property transactions.
DOES YOUR BUILDING REQUIRE AN EPC?
Not all properties are required to have an Energy Performance Certificate. The following types of buildings are exempt:
- Places of worship — buildings used primarily for religious activities.
- Temporary buildings — intended to be used for less than two years.
- Standalone buildings — under 50 m² and not used for accommodation (e.g. small storage units).
- Buildings due for demolition — with evidence of planned demolition.
- Industrial sites and non-residential agricultural buildings — where there is no energy demand.
- Residential buildings to be used less than four months a year — or for short periods with low energy use.
- Listed buildings and those in conservation areas — only if compliance would compromise historic features, judged case-by-case.
These exemptions are set out in UK regulations to ensure EPC requirements are applied where they are most relevant. For other properties, EPCs remain mandatory for sale, rental, or construction.
Does Your Building Fall Under an Exemption?
Certain properties with EPC ratings of F or G may qualify for exemption from MEES requirements. Eligibility depends on meeting one of seven criteria as prescribed by the PRS Exemptions Register. GreenRock Energy can provide full support throughout this process. Exemptions include:
High-Cost Exemption
Applicable when upgrading to EPC ‘E’ is disproportionately expensive compared to properties value.
7-Year Payback Exemption
Applies if energy efficiency improvements would take more than seven years to pay back.
All Improvements Made Exemption
Relevant when all feasible improvements have been completed, but the property still falls below EPC ‘E’.
Wall Insulation Exemption
Applicable when insulating walls is technically infeasible due to building structure or conservation restrictions.
Consent Exemption
Relevant when tenants refuse permission for energy efficiency improvements.
Devaluation Exemption
Applies if required improvements would significantly reduce the property’s value.
New Landlord Exemption
Applicable to newly acquired properties, which allows time to plan and implement improvements.
All exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register
Failure to obtain or provide an EPC when buying, selling, or leasing a commercial property can result in fines from £500 up to 12.5% of the building’s rateable value (max £5,000). Under MEES regulations, properties rated below ‘E’ cannot be leased or have their leases renewed.
GreenRock Energy can help improve energy ratings by providing compliance modelling which details cost effective energy upgrades to reach the rating you’d like to achieve.
Whether through property transactions, rentals, or energy efficiency initiatives, our experts ensure you have an accurate and concise EPC rating, promoting sustainability and peace of mind.