EPCs are one method the government is using in response to climate change and the UK carbon footprint. The government is trying to combat carbon emissions and tackle climate change by 60% by 2050 by introducing EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates). EPCs show the energy efficiency of dwellings or the carbon emissions of non dwellings. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) provides home owners, tenants, landlords, prospective buyers and builders’ information on their properties energy efficiency. Each building is given an energy efficiency grade from A to G. The higher the efficiency grade the less carbon emissions are affecting the environment. Each EPC recommends ways to improve your energy performance by methods such as loft and cavity insulation. Dwellings require domestic Energy Performance Certificates provided by DEAs (Domestic Energy Assessors), whilst Non Dwellings require EPCs from CEAs (Commercial Energy Assessors). DECs (Display Energy Certificates) differ slightly from other energy certificates, as they are based on actual energy consumption.

Commercial EPCs have been introduced to try and help monitor the energy efficiency of buildings and reduce their carbon emissions. Commercial EPCs are created by Energy Assessors who weigh up the factors that affect the efficiency of the energy such as fabric, heating and ventilation systems. Collectively, with a related report which recommends improvements, the EPC advises interested parties about the energy efficiency of the building. As of 4th January 2009 a commercial EPC is required before you sell or lease dwellings and non-dwellings, this only affects newly built dwellings and non dwellings. The commercial EPC is valid for 10 years before renewal, however there are a few exceptions; these include places of worship, barns, sheds and summer houses. A commercial EPC not only benefits the environment it also benefits all home owners and landlords and can prove extremely cost effective.

An energy certificate is an approved and accepted form of documenting energy performance of a building and/or business. There are two types – Energy Production Certificate (EPCs) and Display Energy Certificates (DECs). DECs began in October 2008 they show how businesses are working towards lowering their carbon emissions and carbon footprint. Attaining an energy certificate is straight forward with the help of an accredited Energy Assessor, such as Coles Knapp. The energy assessor will also offer recommendations as to how you can improve your energy efficiency and how you can reduce carbon emissions. When a building is built, sold or let an energy certificate is required by law. A Display Energy Certificate illustrates the buildings actual energy usage and is only needed for buildings that are occupied by public authorities. The DEC is only valid for one year and if you do not possess an energy certificate you could be held responsible for an astounding £1000 fine!

Accredited Energy Assessors calculate the efficiency of the energy or carbon emissions of domestic and commercial buildings. An EPC- Energy Performance Certificate- is given when the assessment is complete. A number of factors affect the rating that it is given after the evaluation including the fabric of the building. EPCs can only be obtained from a qualified Domestic or Commercial Energy Assessor, who have completed relevant training, have passed the assessment and received accreditation. An energy assessor is responsible for conducting an energy assessment on your dwelling or non dwelling and producing an EPC, DEC and Air Conditioning Reports. An energy assessor will look at the size and age of the building and installation levels and the condition of lighting, heating and hot water. If you need to find a qualified energy assessor all accreditation schemes have lists of qualified energy assessors who are available in your local area.