From April 2008 all newly constructed commercial property will need to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This requirement applies to all new commercial property as well as existing buildings with a floor area over 500m2. From October 2008 the requirement for an EPC will apply to ALL commercial property sold or leased regardless of square footage.

Certificates will grade performance on a scale from A-G similar to the system used for grading white goods. There are two types for commercial buildings: asset certificates and operating certificates.

Asset certificates (EPC's) will measure the intrinsic energy performance of the building based on its design. Operating certificates will measure how the building is managed and actually performs.

Asset certificates will have to be renewed every 10 years and must be shown to prospective buyers and tenants on points of sale, lease and lease renewal. The certificate must be made available no later than the distribution of the marketing material for the Property.

Operating certificates (otherwise known as Display Energy Certificates) must be renewed on an annual basis and apply to Public buildings with a usable floor area greater than 1000m2. They must be displayed in all public buildings.

For further information contact David Hogg at david.hogg@close-thornton.co.uk or call him on 01325 466461

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