Legislation

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)

EPCs required on construction of all dwellings
EPCs required for the construction, sale of rent of buildings other than dwellings over 10,000 m² from April 08 and all buildings from October 2008
The EPC will show the theoretical energy efficiency of a building, against comparative building benchmarks of similar size, age and usage. This rating is displayed graphically on a scale from A-G
Valid for 10 years
Always accompanied by a recommendation report that provides measures on how to improve the energy rating of the building.

Similar to the EPC, the DEC however also includes information about the actual energy usage of the building – its operational rating
DEC is accompanied by an advisory report which provides recommendations on improving the energy performance of the building
Required for buildings occupied by public authorities or institutions providing a public service to a large number of persons with a total useful area of greater than 1000m²
The DEC must be displayed in a place that is clearly visible to the public
DECs remain valid for one year only
The accompanying advisory report remains valid for seven years.

An assessment of efficiency, a review of their sizing and advice on improvements, replacements and alternative solutions
Required by January 2009 where the total cooling capacity is greater than 250kW and by January 2011 where the total cooling capacity is greater than 12kW
Need to be inspected at intervals not exceeding five years.