The commercial EPC certificate cost is higher than a domestic EPC, and for good reason. Commercial and domestic EPCs are fundamentally different assessments. They use different methodologies, require different qualifications, and serve different legal purposes. This guide explains the key differences so you know what to expect before you commission either type.
What Is a Domestic EPC?
A domestic EPC assesses the energy performance of a residential property. The assessor visits the property, records details about the construction, insulation, heating system, and glazing, and uses government-approved software to produce a rating from A to G.
Domestic EPCs are required when you sell or let a residential property in England. The assessment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for a standard home. The cost ranges from £60 to £120 depending on property size and location.
What Is a Commercial EPC?
A commercial EPC, also known as a non-domestic EPC, assesses the energy performance of a commercial building. This includes offices, shops, warehouses, hotels, schools, and any building that is not used as a dwelling.
The commercial EPC certificate cost is higher because the assessment is considerably more complex. Commercial buildings vary enormously in size, use, and mechanical systems. As a result, the assessment requires a Level 3, 4, or 5 qualified assessor depending on the building type, and the methodology used is entirely different from the domestic approach.
How Commercial EPC Certificate Cost Compares to Domestic
For a small commercial property such as a single office unit or retail shop, the commercial EPC certificate cost typically starts at £150 to £300. For larger or more complex buildings, costs rise significantly. A medium-sized office building might cost £400 to £800. A large industrial unit or mixed-use development can cost £1,000 or more.
By comparison, a domestic EPC for a two-bedroom flat costs £60 to £90 in most parts of England. The commercial EPC certificate cost reflects the additional time, specialist software, and higher qualification level required.
Key Differences Between Commercial and Domestic EPCs
- Legal requirement: Both types are required when selling or letting a property. However, commercial buildings above 500 square metres that are frequently visited by the public must also display the EPC in a prominent location.
- Assessor qualification: Domestic assessors hold a Level 3 qualification. Commercial assessors hold Level 3, 4, or 5 depending on building complexity. As a result, commercial assessors are harder to find and command higher fees.
- Methodology: Domestic EPCs use the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) or Reduced Data SAP (RdSAP). Commercial EPCs use the Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) or dynamic simulation modelling for complex buildings.
- Validity: Both domestic and commercial EPCs are valid for ten years.
- Recommendations: Both types include a recommendations report. However, commercial recommendations tend to focus on building services, lighting, and controls rather than fabric improvements.
When Do You Need a Commercial EPC?
You need a commercial EPC when you sell or let a commercial property in England. Furthermore, you need one when a building is newly constructed or undergoes a material change of use. Public buildings above a certain size must also display a Display Energy Certificate (DEC), which is a separate but related document.
For the government’s full guidance on commercial EPC requirements, see here.
Can the Same Assessor Do Both Types?
No. A domestic assessor is not qualified to produce a commercial EPC. If you need both types for a mixed-use building, you will need separate assessors for the residential and commercial parts. This is common in properties with retail units on the ground floor and flats above.
For domestic EPC assessments across your portfolio, see our guide to finding your EPC certificate.
Our sister site ecoinsulation.co.uk covers external wall insulation options for commercial and mixed-use buildings looking to improve their EPC rating before a sale or lease renewal.
Get a Quote for Your Commercial EPC Today
Commercial EPC certificate cost varies by building type and complexity. Contact us today for a fast, accurate quote from a qualified assessor. We cover all commercial property types across England and lodge certificates on the official register the same day.