Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), an element of Home Information Packs (HIPs) will be introduced into commercial property from 6 th April 2008.

Commercial buildings will need an EPC when they are constructed, sold or let. This new regulation is part of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive which requires all EU countries to establish minimum energy performance standards for buildings.

An EPC will provide an energy rating for a building which is based on the performance potential of the building itself (the fabric) and its services (such as heating, ventilation and lighting). It will be accompanied by a recommendation report on how the energy performance of the building could be enhanced. The phased timetable for the implementation of the new regulations is: from 6th April 2008 on the construction, sale or letting of all commercial buildings of more than 10,000 sqm; from 1st July 2008 on the construction, sale or letting of commercial buildings of more than 2,500 sqm and from 1st October 2008 on the construction, sale or letting of all remaining buildings that are not dwellings.