Built Up Energy
Did you know that buildings are responsible for almost half of the U.K.'s energy consumption and carbon emissions? How we light heat and use them all contribute to this. To tackle this, Energy Performance Regulations are being introduced in the U.K. By making energy performance a decision-making factor for tenants, buyers and financiers, the regulations aim to encourage property owners, landlords and property developers to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings.
The requirements relating to the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), Display Energy Certificates (DECs) and air-conditioning system inspections are shown below.
EPCs grade energy performance on a scale similar to the system used for grading domestic appliances. Their purpose is to record how energy efficient a building is. They are valid for 10 years and can be assigned to the new owner when a building is sold.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, EPCs and DECs must be produced by energy assessors who are members of a recognised accreditation scheme. The Scottish Government has entered into protocols with a number of organisations and professional bodies to deliver services in relation to EPCs.
If you would assistance appointing an energy assessor to undertake your building inspections and provide EPCs, please contact us.
ROLL-OUT SCHEDULE
EPCs: Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) required for all commercial buildings over 50m2 and dwellings when they are newly constructed sold or rented.
DECs: Display Energy Certificates (DECs) required for all public buildings over 1,000m2.
Air-Conditioning System Inspections: First inspection of all existing air-conditioning systems over 250kW must have taken place by January 4, 2009. First inspection of all remaining air-conditioning systems over 12kW must have occurred by January 4, 2011.
For more information go to www.communities-gov.uk/planningandbuilding
SCOTLAND
EPCs: EPCs required for all newly constructed buildings. For marketed sales of dwellings, and EPC must be provided with Home Pack. From January 4, 2009 EPCs will be required for the sale of all other buildings and for rental of buildings. EPCs for public buildings must be on display by January 4, 2009.
Air-Conditioning System Inspections: Inspections of air-conditioning systems over 250 kW are being introduced from January 4, 2009. Inspections of all remaining air-conditioning systems over 12kW required from January 4, 2011.
Further information can be found at www.sbsa.gov.uk/epc.htm
NORTHERN IRELAND
EPCs: required for the sale of existing dwellings and for all newly constructed buildings. From December 30, 2008. EPCs will be required for the sale of commercial buildings and for commercial premises and residential buildings being offered for rental.
DECs: DECs musy be displayed in all public buildings over 1000m2 that are frequently visited by the public from December 30, 2008.
Air-Conditioning System Inspections: Any air-conditioning system newly installed after December 30, 2008 must be inspected within five years of installation. First inspection of existing air-conditioning systems over 250kW must have taken place by January 4, 2010. All remaining air-conditioning systems over 12kW must have occurred by January 4, 2011.
To find out more, go to www.epbdfpni.gov.uk
FP692
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