DECs (Display Energy Certificates) and ARs (Advisory Reports)

Display Energy Certificates are only required for buildings with a total useful floor area over 1,000m 2 that are occupied by a public authority or an institution providing a public service (further defined as 'one providing a service traditionally associated with local or national Government') to a large number of persons and therefore visited by those persons. They are valid for one year. The accompanying Advisory Report is valid for seven years

Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the actual energy usage of a building, the Operational Rating, and help the public see the energy efficiency of a building. This is based on the energy consumption of the building as recorded by gas, electricity and other meters. The DEC should be clearly displayed at all times and clearly visible to the public. A DEC is always accompanied by an Advisory Report that lists cost effective measures to improve the energy rating of the building.

The requirement for Display Energy Certificates comes into effect from 1 October 2008.

If you are still unsure about whether you need to display a DEC, you can contact EPBD on 0845 365 2468 or e-mail help@epbduk.info to check.

More information can be obtained at the Communities Govt. website here.