How we produce Commercial EPCs

Posted by Survey Hub Ltd on 26th November 2019 -

One of the most common types of property we get instructed to produce commercial EPC’s (Energy Performance Certificates) for are offices. This is a quick guide to demonstrate how we produce EPC’s for commercial buildings – both large and small.

It’s good to talk

The first thing we do is have a quick chat with the client or the tenant, to establish what we need to inspect, and ask them to walk us through the property so we can get familiar with the layout.

Most buildings have plant rooms and air handling units, which are usually located on the roof. Prior to our site visit, we always inform our client that it’s important for us to get to these areas in order to provide an accurate EPC.

Air Handling Unit and a Heat Pump on the roof

As well as going on the roof to take photos of the air handling units, we also need to have a look above ceiling tiles to check air conditioning ductwork.

Checking above ceiling tiles for insulation and air conditioning Ductwork

 

Plant Room

We take photos of lighting, heating and hot water systems and take accurate measurements in each room of the property, to produce an precise floor plan. We also measure any external doors, as well as windows, floor to floor, and floor to soffit. Furthermore, we look at the wall type and research any data relating to the buildings’ planning history.

Using a Disto to take measurements and get the dimensions of the property

After completing the site inspection, we gather all the information and input onto our  energy modelling software, ‘DesignBuilder’, to produce a accurate and up-to- date EPC draft. The EPC shows the overall energy efficiency rating for the building inspected. The rating is shown on an A-G rating scale, where A is very efficient, and G is the least efficient. If the property achieves an E rating or above, then we will Lodge the EPC and send a copy of the certificate to our clients.

Example of Energy Performance Certificate

The EPC report also includes recommendations on how to improve the energy efficiency of the building. EPCs are valid for 10 years and can be reused as required within that period. If the EPC does not reach an E rating or above, we may approach the client and suggest they consider a MEES review. At this stage, we will model any relevant improvements and review how different solutions – or slight adaptations – may improve the EPC rating. And lastly, we prepare an enhanced recommendations report and analysis, so the client can make an informed decision on which building improvements will have the biggest impact on the rating, and therefore achieve an EPC rating of E or above.

For more information regarding the MEES regulations, please click here, to read our blog.

Any questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]