Many organisations already have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) in place and assume this means they are fully compliant with energy regulations. However, for many public access buildings, an EPC alone is not enough.
In reality, many organisations require both an EPC and a Display Energy Certificate (DEC). This article explains the difference, why both matter and how to ensure your building remains compliant.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) measures how energy efficient a building should be, based on its design, construction, insulation, heating systems and glazing.
EPCs are required when a commercial building is:
- Built.
- Sold.
- Rented or leased.
They are typically the responsibility of the building owner or landlord, rather than the occupier.
Key EPC facts:
- Applies to commercial buildings over 50m².
- Legally required to rent or lease a property..3
- Must achieve a minimum rating of E to comply with regulations.
- Valid for 10 years.
An EPC is essentially a theoretical assessment. It does not take into account how the building is actually used day to day.
How do EPC ratings work?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a building’s energy efficiency on a scale from A to G, where:
- A = Very energy efficient (lowest running costs).
- G = Very inefficient (highest running costs).
The rating is calculated using a standard assessment methodology that looks at:
- Heating and cooling systems.
- Insulation and building fabric.
- Lighting and controls.
- Glazing and ventilation.
What is a Display Energy Certificate (DEC)?
A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) measures a building’s actual energy performance, based on real energy consumption data.
Unlike an EPC, a DEC reflects:
- Occupancy levels.
- Operating hours.
- Heating, lighting, and equipment use.
DECs are required for public access buildings and must be clearly displayed in a prominent location where they can be seen by visitors.
Key DEC facts:
- Applies to buildings frequently visited by the public.
- Usually the responsibility of the organisation occupying the building.
- Includes an accompanying Advisory Report with recommendations to improve efficiency.
- Focuses on transparency and accountability for public energy use.
What types of buildings need a DEC?
DECs apply to organisations that provide services to the public. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Medical and GP practices.
- Hospitals and NHS buildings.
- Schools, colleges, and universities.
- Councils and local authority buildings.
- Museums, libraries, and galleries.
- Leisure centres and sports facilities.
- Community centres and public halls.
If members of the public regularly enter your building to receive a service, a DEC is likely a legal requirement.
EPC vs DEC: What’s the difference?
Although they are often confused, EPCs and DECs serve very different purposes.
- EPCs assess how efficient a building should be, based on design.
- DECs assess how efficient a building actually is, based on usage.
Having an EPC does not remove the requirement for a DEC. Many organisations need both to remain compliant.
Why are EPCs and DECs important?
EPCs and DECs are not just paperwork — they are legal compliance documents.
Failure to hold or display the correct certificate can result in:
- Enforcement action.
- Financial penalties.
- Issues during inspections or audits.
Beyond compliance, DECs in particular help organisations:
- Understand real energy consumption.
- Identify inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.
- Demonstrate environmental responsibility and transparency.
What does your business actually need?
DEC requirements depend on the size of the building:
250m² to 999m².
- DEC required.
- Renewal every 10 years.
1,000m² or more.
- DEC required.
- Must be renewed annually.
- After the initial site assessment, only annual energy consumption data is needed.
- A new site survey is required every 7 years, or sooner if the building size changes by 25%+.
What if you own the building?
If your organisation owns and occupies a public access building, you may be responsible for both an EPC and a DEC.
How Consultiv Utilities can help
Consultiv Utilities supports organisations across the UK with EPC and DEC compliance, including healthcare, education, local authorities, and leisure providers.
We offer:
- EPC and DEC assessments for public access buildings.
- Combined site visits to reduce cost and disruption.
- Ongoing support with renewals and advisory reports.
- Clear, practical guidance tailored to your organisation.
If your EPC is out of date, we can often assess both certificates during a single visit, saving time and money. Get in touch today to find out more.
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