If you own, manage, sell or lease a commercial property in the UK, a Commercial Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is not optional, it’s a legal requirement and an essential part of property compliance.
Beyond legislation, a Commercial EPC plays an important role in energy efficiency, running costs and the long-term value of your building. This guide explains what a Commercial EPC is, when it’s required and why it matters to your business.
What Is a Commercial EPC?
A Commercial Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures the energy efficiency of a non-domestic building. It provides an energy rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with recommendations for improving the building’s performance.
Commercial EPCs apply to a wide range of non-domestic buildings, including:
• Offices
• Retail units
• Warehouses
• Industrial buildings
• Hospitality and leisure premises
The EPC reflects the building’s fabric and fixed services; such as heating, lighting and insulation, rather than how energy is used by occupants.
When Is a Commercial EPC Required?
A Commercial EPC is legally required when a commercial property is:
• Built
• Sold
• Let (rented or leased)
The certificate must be available to prospective buyers or tenants before marketing the property. Most Commercial EPCs are valid for 10 years, unless major changes are made to the building that could affect its energy performance.
Failure to provide a valid EPC can result in enforcement action and financial penalties.
Why Does Your Business Need One?
Legal Compliance
Commercial EPCs are a statutory requirement under UK energy regulations. Without a valid certificate, property transactions can be delayed or prevented and penalties may be issued by the local authority.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
Under MEES regulations, most commercial properties must achieve a minimum EPC rating of E to be legally let.
If a building is rated F or G, landlords may:
• Be prohibited from granting new leases
• Face restrictions on existing leases
• Need to register an exemption or carry out improvement works
A Commercial EPC identifies whether your property meets MEES requirements and highlights potential upgrade options.
Lower Energy Costs
The EPC recommendation report outlines cost-effective improvements that can reduce energy consumption, such as:
• Upgrading lighting systems
• Improving heating efficiency
• Enhancing insulation or controls
These improvements can lower running costs, improve comfort for occupants and reduce carbon emissions.
Improved Property Value and Marketability
Energy-efficient buildings are increasingly attractive to tenants and investors. A stronger EPC rating can:
• Reduce void periods
• Improve tenant retention
• Support ESG and sustainability objectives
• Protect long-term asset value
For multi-site portfolios, EPC data also supports better strategic planning.
Planning for Future Regulations
Energy efficiency standards are tightening across the UK. Having an up-to-date Commercial EPC allows businesses and landlords to:
• Plan upgrades proactively
• Budget effectively
• Avoid last-minute compliance risks
Rather than reacting to regulatory changes, an EPC helps you stay ahead.
Who Is Responsible for a Commercial EPC?
Responsibility typically lies with:
• Building owners when selling or letting
• Landlords when leasing commercial premises
Tenants may also need to be aware of EPC ratings, particularly where lease terms or energy costs are affected.
What Happens If You Don’t Have One?
If a Commercial EPC is required but not provided, you may face:
• Financial penalties
• Delays to sales or lettings
• Enforcement action from the local authority
Non-compliance can also create reputational and operational risks for property owners and managing agents.
Commercial EPCs with Clifton Energy
Clifton Energy provides professional Commercial EPC assessments for businesses, landlords and managing agents across the UK. Services are delivered efficiently, with clear reporting and practical guidance to support compliance with EPC and MEES regulations.
Contact Clifton Energy today to arrange a Commercial EPC or discuss your wider energy compliance requirements.