It is essential to understand that Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are not only a requirement for residential properties; commercial properties also need to obtain a valid EPC to be sold, rented, or let. Just as in the residential sector, an EPC rating plays a vital role in the commercial industry, directly influencing the appeal of properties. However, getting commercial EPCs is often perceived as a complicated and costly process. In reality, that’s not the case if you work with the right, qualified, and accredited assessors.
Having worked as Energy Performance Assessors for years, we know the common concerns businesses face. That’s why, in this blog, we’ll address the most frequently asked questions about EPCs and break down the key factors that influence Commercial EPC Certificate costs, helping you understand the prices more clearly.
What is Commercial EPC?
According to UK regulations, every commercial property, except for a few exemptions, is legally required to have a valid Commercial EPC. This certificate is issued after a detailed assessment that calculates the energy efficiency of offices, shops, warehouses, factories, and other commercial buildings. EPC ratings range from A to G, with A indicating the most efficient and G indicating the least efficient. Without a valid EPC that meets the minimum threshold, no owner can sell or rent out a commercial property. It is one of the most essential legal documents, helping not only with compliance but also in improving the value of your property in the marketplace.
Which Factors Impact Commercial EPC Certificate Cost?
Size of the Property
The first factor that determines the cost of EPC is the size of the property. Multi-story buildings, complex structures, and intricate energy systems often require more detailed assessment and technical expertise, which translates into a higher cost for the certificate.
Location of the Property
Another factor that decides the cost of a commercial EPC is its location. Urban areas usually have more demand for it; therefore, chances are that you will come across more competitive rates. Moreover, in some cases, higher demand and long travel distances can result in higher costs. On the other hand, rural areas do not have many accredited assessors, so you can expect higher costs.
Complexity of the Building
Commercial buildings generally have more complicated structures; hence, the commercial EPC costs more than the residential EPC. This is because complex structures, multiple stories, and unconventional floor plans are more difficult to evaluate for energy performance and require much more time and expertise, which in turn incurs higher costs.
Internal Energy Systems
The assessors for the Energy Performance Certificate thoroughly examine energy systems, including lighting, insulation, and heating systems such as boilers and heaters. In situations such as poor insulation or advanced renewable energy systems, the complexity of evaluation increases, which in turn impacts the time required to calculate the effect on energy efficiency and results in an increase in the overall Commercial EPC Certificate cost.
The roughly estimated cost for commercial EPC can range from £300 to £400 for small units or medium-sized offices, and for larger business complexes, this cost can go up to £1,500. However, the charges for EPC don’t depend on a single factor; here, size, location, accessibility, complexity, internal systems and the assessor you choose all cumulatively impact the rates you are going to pay. Therefore, it is advisable to consider all these factors to calculate the expected cost of your certificate.
Tips to Reduce Commercial EPC Certificate Cost:
Though all factors aren’t controllable, like building size, location or structure, but here’s what you can do to save money:
- Provide accurate floor plans, building details and documentation to save assessors’ time.
- Ensure you have a trusted and accredited assessor to avoid errors or the risk of repeated evaluation.
- Focus on improving efficiency by using better insulation and upgraded systems to achieve a better rating, making assessors’ jobs easier and eliminating the need for improvement.
Why Choose EPC Yorkshire for Your Commercial EPC?
If you want to speed up the process of getting your certificate, cut down extra costs, and work with a reliable, accredited provider of EPCs, then EPC Yorkshire is the perfect choice for you. Our qualified team of assessors is trained to carry out in-depth evaluations for every type of property. Whether your building has a complex design or advanced technological features, our experts pay close attention to every detail to accurately calculate its energy performance rating and deliver your certificate with fair results.
Contact us today to book an appointment and receive your Energy Performance Certificate quickly and seamlessly.