Commercial EPCs in Norfolk | Non-Domestic Energy Performance Certificates
Commercial EPCs in Norfolk
If you are selling, leasing or marketing a commercial property, you will usually need a valid Commercial Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
Saxon Surveying provides accredited Commercial EPC assessments across Norfolk, including Norwich, Wymondham, Attleborough and surrounding areas.
We regularly assess:
- Offices
- Retail units and shops
- Industrial buildings and warehouses
- Mixed-use premises
- Restaurants and hospitality buildings
- Agricultural and specialist buildings
A Commercial EPC provides an energy efficiency rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and includes a recommendation report outlining possible improvement measures.
When is a Commercial EPC required?
A Commercial EPC is normally required when:
- A non-domestic building is sold
- A commercial property is let to a new tenant
- Premises are marketed for sale or lease
- A new commercial building is constructed
- A building is subdivided into separate units
In most cases, the EPC must be commissioned before the property is marketed.
Failing to provide a valid EPC when required can result in financial penalties for property owners or landlords.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
Commercial EPC ratings are particularly important for landlords due to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations.
Under current regulations:
- Commercial properties generally require an EPC rating of E or above to be legally let.
- Properties rated F or G may require improvement works or an exemption.
- Local authorities can issue significant financial penalties for non-compliance.
MEES regulations mean that EPC ratings are not just informational — they can directly affect whether a property can legally be rented.
See our guide: MEES and EPCs for landlords
Types of Commercial EPC Assessment
Commercial EPCs use different assessment levels depending on the size and complexity of the building.
Level 3 EPC
Used for smaller and simpler commercial buildings, including:
- small offices
- shops
- small warehouses
Level 4 EPC
Used for larger or air-conditioned buildings, such as:
- larger office buildings
- retail premises
- multi-storey properties
Level 5 EPC
Required for complex commercial buildings, often using dynamic simulation modelling.
These may include:
- large office buildings
- complex HVAC systems
- large public buildings
The correct level is determined by the building construction and services, not simply its use.
What is assessed during a Commercial EPC?
Commercial EPCs assess the building itself rather than tenant energy usage.
During a survey we typically examine:
- Insulation – levels around the home/building
- Heating – system type and controls
- Windows – glazing type and approximate areas
- Construction – walls, floors, roof form
- Renewables – PV/solar thermal/other
- Lighting – low energy fittings where relevant
Key factors affecting EPC ratings include:
- Heating and cooling systems
- Ventilation equipment
- Lighting type and controls
- Building insulation and construction
- Layout and zoning
- Renewable technologies such as solar PV
What to expect during a Commercial EPC survey
A typical commercial EPC inspection takes 30 minutes to several hours depending on the building size.
We will usually require access to:
- plant rooms
- heating and cooling equipment
- electrical and lighting systems
- roof spaces where relevant
- building plans (if available)
- Photos may be taken to evidence property features.
- Floorplans may be produced for accurate record taking.
- Survey – our accreditation body may contact you for feedback.
After the inspection, the EPC is produced using approved government software and lodged on the national EPC register.
Air conditioning inspections
Buildings with air-conditioning systems above 12kW cooling capacity may also require regular air conditioning inspections under energy efficiency regulations.
These inspections assess:
- system efficiency
- control systems
- suitability of the system for the building
See our guidance: Air conditioning inspections
Display Energy Certificates for public buildings
Certain public buildings may also require Display Energy Certificates (DECs).
These are typically required where:
- buildings are occupied by public authorities
- the total floor area exceeds 250m²
- the building is frequently visited by the public
DECs differ from EPCs because they measure actual operational energy use rather than theoretical building performance.
Who we work with
We regularly carry out Commercial EPC assessments for:
- commercial landlords
- property investors
- estate agents and letting agents
- facilities managers
- developers
- business owners
Whether you manage a single commercial unit or a large property portfolio, we can help ensure compliance.
Why choose Saxon Surveying?
- Accredited Commercial EPC assessor
- Experience with offices, retail and industrial properties
- Clear explanations of MEES compliance requirements
- Coverage across Norfolk including Norwich
- Professional site inspections and reliable reporting
Book a Commercial EPC
If you require a Commercial EPC for sale, leasing or regulatory compliance, we can help.
Request a Commercial EPC Quote
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