Public Buildings: DEC generally needed. EPC generally not.

Trading Standards have been made aware that some producers of commercial Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) may be writing to local parish councils telling them they need EPCs for their village halls etc. and risk large fines if they do not comply. This is not correct because an EPC is only required for a building when constructed, sold or let.

A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) and advisory report are required for buildings with a total useful floor area over 1,000m2 that are occupied in whole or part by public authorities and by institutions providing public services to a large number of persons and therefore frequently visited by those persons.

For further information on DECs see http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/displayenergycertificates and note the flowchart on page 9 to help you find out whether your building may require a DEC.

Help and advice is available freely from Trading Standards to parish councils and businesses. Prosecution is only used only as a very last resort if appropriate. Contact Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.