Level 3 & 4 accredited assessors
Non Domestic EPC
Everything you need to know about Energy Performance Certificates for commercial, industrial, and public buildings.
What is a non domestic EPC?
A non domestic EPC is an Energy Performance Certificate for any building that is not a dwelling. It rates the building on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years from the date of issue.
The term “non domestic” covers a wide range of property types: offices, shops, restaurants, warehouses, factories, schools, hospitals, churches, leisure centres, and any other building where people work, visit, or receive services rather than live.
Non domestic EPCs are produced using the SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) methodology. This is fundamentally different from the SAP/RdSAP system used for houses and flats, which is why non domestic assessments require a Level 3 or Level 4 qualified energy assessor rather than a standard domestic assessor.
Energy rating
CO₂ emissions score
- A0-25Most efficient
- B26-50
- C51-75
- D76-100
- E101-125
- F126-150
- G151+Least efficient
Lower scores are better. New commercial buildings typically target B or better; sub-E ratings cannot legally be let under MEES.
When is a non domestic EPC required?
Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations, a valid EPC must be available at the following points:
Selling a commercial property
The seller must make an EPC available to prospective buyers as early as possible and no later than the point of marketing.
Letting or renewing a lease
The landlord must provide an EPC to the tenant before the lease is signed. This applies to new leases, renewals, and assignments.
New build or major refurbishment
A new EPC must be produced before the building is occupied. For refurbishments that involve replacing more than 25% of the building envelope, a new certificate is also required.
MEES compliance
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, commercial properties must achieve at least an E rating to be legally let. The EPC is the document used to prove compliance.
Domestic vs non domestic EPC
The two certificate types look similar but the methodology, assessor qualifications, and cost are all different.
| Domestic EPC | Non Domestic EPC | |
|---|---|---|
| Buildings | Houses, flats, bungalows | Offices, shops, warehouses, schools, etc. |
| Methodology | SAP / RdSAP | SBEM or DSM |
| Assessor level | Level 1 or 2 | Level 3 or 4 |
| Register | EPC Register | Landmark |
| Typical cost | £60 - £120 | £199 - £849+ |
| Valid for | 10 years | 10 years |
If you have a mixed-use building (e.g. a flat above a shop), each unit needs its own EPC produced using the correct methodology for that unit type.
Buildings we assess
We produce non domestic EPCs for every category of commercial and public building.
Office & professional
Offices, co-working spaces, serviced offices, banks, call centres
Retail & hospitality
Shops, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, pubs, hotels, B&Bs
Industrial & storage
Warehouses, factories, workshops, distribution centres, self-storage
Healthcare & care
GP surgeries, dental practices, veterinary clinics, care homes, pharmacies
Education & public
Schools, colleges, nurseries, libraries, community centres, council buildings
Leisure & worship
Gyms, sports halls, cinemas, theatres, churches, mosques, temples
EPC vs DEC: which do you need?
An EPC rates the theoretical energy efficiency of a building based on its construction and systems. A DEC (Display Energy Certificate) shows the actual measured energy consumption over the past 12 months using utility meter data.
DECs are only required for public-authority buildings over 250 m² that are frequently visited by the public, such as schools, hospitals, leisure centres, and council offices. They must be displayed in a prominent location within the building and renewed annually.
If you are selling or letting a commercial property, you need an EPC. If you occupy a qualifying public building, you may need both. Not sure which applies to you? Call us on 07429 040520 and we'll advise.
Exemptions from needing a non domestic EPC
Most commercial properties need an EPC, but there are a few exceptions defined in the regulations:
- Places of worship (churches, mosques, temples, synagogues)
- Temporary buildings with a planned use of less than 2 years
- Standalone buildings under 50 m² that are not dwellings
- Industrial sites and workshops where heating is not used primarily for human comfort
- Buildings due to be demolished under a confirmed demolition order
- Agricultural buildings with low energy demand
If your building falls into one of these categories, you do not need an EPC. However, you may still want one for mortgage, insurance, or sustainability reporting purposes. Contact us if you need advice on whether an exemption applies to your property.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a domestic and non domestic EPC?
A domestic EPC covers houses and flats and is produced using the SAP or RdSAP methodology by a Level 1 or 2 assessor. A non domestic EPC covers all other buildings (offices, shops, warehouses, schools, etc.) and is produced using the SBEM methodology by a Level 3 or Level 4 assessor. The two certificates look similar but the underlying calculations and accreditation requirements are completely different.
What does SBEM stand for and how does it work?
SBEM stands for Simplified Building Energy Model. It is the approved software methodology used to calculate the energy performance of non-domestic buildings in England and Wales. The assessor inputs data about the building fabric (walls, roof, floors, glazing), heating and cooling systems, lighting, hot water, and ventilation. SBEM compares the building against a notional reference building to produce the A-to-G rating.
What is the difference between a Level 3 and Level 4 assessor?
A Level 3 assessor can produce EPCs for most non-domestic buildings using the SBEM methodology. A Level 4 assessor can also handle complex buildings that require Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM), such as buildings with advanced HVAC systems or unusual geometries. Our team includes both Level 3 and Level 4 assessors.
What is the difference between an EPC and a DEC?
An EPC rates the theoretical energy efficiency of the building based on its design and construction. A DEC (Display Energy Certificate) shows the actual measured energy consumption over the past 12 months. DECs are required for public buildings over 250 m² that are frequently visited by the public, such as schools, hospitals, and council offices. An EPC is required for sale or lease; a DEC is required for display.
Are there any buildings exempt from needing a non domestic EPC?
Some buildings are exempt, including places of worship, temporary buildings with a planned use of less than 2 years, standalone buildings under 50 m², industrial sites and workshops where heating is not used primarily for human comfort, and buildings due to be demolished. If you are unsure whether your building qualifies for an exemption, contact us and we can advise.
What happens if I let a property without a valid EPC?
Letting a commercial property without a valid EPC is a breach of the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations. The penalty is 12.5% of the rateable value of the property, with a minimum fine of £500 and a maximum of £5,000. Trading Standards are the enforcing authority.
Need a non domestic EPC?
Accredited Level 3 and 4 assessors. Certificates lodged on Landmark in 24-48 hours.