ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES (EPCs)
What is a Commercial EPC?
A Commercial EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rates the energy efficiency of a non‑domestic building from A–G. It is legally required when selling, letting, or constructing a commercial property.
When do I need a Commercial EPC?
You need a Commercial EPC when a building is sold, leased, or newly constructed. It is also required for MEES compliance.
How long does a Commercial EPC last?
A Commercial EPC is valid for 10 years.
Who can produce a Commercial EPC?
Only accredited non‑domestic energy assessors. CCA Environmental provides Level 3, 4 and 5 EPCs.
What information is needed for an EPC survey?
Floor plans, access to plant rooms, HVAC details, lighting information, and building fabric details.
How long does a commercial EPC assessment take?
Typically 1–4 hours depending on building size and complexity.
How quickly can I receive my EPC certificate?
CCA Environmental usually delivers EPCs within 2–3 working days.
What affects the EPC rating?
Insulation, glazing, HVAC efficiency, lighting, controls, and building age.
Can an EPC rating be improved?
Yes — through upgrades such as LED lighting, insulation, efficient HVAC, and renewable technologies.
What buildings are exempt from needing an EPC?
Places of worship, temporary buildings, industrial sites with low energy demand, and some listed buildings (case‑dependent).
Do listed buildings need EPCs?
Often exempt, but MEES may still apply. CCA Environmental can advise case‑by‑case.
What is a Level 5 EPC?
A specialist EPC for complex buildings requiring dynamic simulation modelling (DSM). CCA Environmental provides Level 5 EPCs using IES software.
What is DSM modelling?
A detailed 3D energy model used for complex buildings to produce accurate EPCs and improvement strategies.
How much does a Commercial EPC cost?
Costs vary by size and complexity. CCA Environmental provides fixed‑fee quotes.
Can I fail an EPC?
No — but a low rating may prevent letting under MEES regulations.
TM44 AIR CONDITIONING INSPECTIONS (ACIs)
What is a TM44 inspection?
A legal inspection of air‑conditioning systems over 12kW, required every 5 years.
Who needs a TM44 certificate?
Any building with cooling systems totalling 12kW or more.
How often is a TM44 required?
Every 5 years.
What happens during a TM44 inspection?
An assessor reviews system efficiency, maintenance, controls, and provides recommendations.
What are the penalties for not having a TM44?
Fines of £300 per system and potential enforcement action.
How long does a TM44 inspection take?
1–3 hours depending on system size.
What documents do I receive?
A full TM44 report and lodged certificate.
Can TM44 inspections reduce energy costs?
Yes — recommendations often reduce cooling energy by 10–30%.
Does CCA Environmental provide TM44 inspections?
Yes — UK‑wide coverage with fast turnaround.
What systems are exempt from TM44?
Systems under 12kW, or those replaced entirely within the last 5 years.
DISPLAY ENERGY CERTIFICATES (DECs)
What is a DEC?
A Display Energy Certificate shows the actual energy use of a public building.
Who needs a DEC?
Public buildings over 250m² that are frequently visited by the public.
How long is a DEC valid for?
Over 1,000m²: 1 year
250–999m²: 10 years
250–999m²: 10 years
What is an Advisory Report (AR)?
A companion document recommending energy improvements.
What data is needed for a DEC?
12 months of energy bills and floor area details.
Can private buildings get a DEC?
Yes — many organisations use DECs voluntarily to demonstrate sustainability.
Does CCA Environmental produce DECs?
Yes — including Advisory Reports.
MEES REGULATIONS
What is MEES?
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards requiring commercial properties to achieve EPC rating E or above.
What is the current MEES requirement?
Minimum EPC rating E.
Are MEES rules changing?
Major Changes were announced in June 2026. Full details can be found here: https://cca-ltd.uk.com/mees-update-2026/
What happens if my building is below an E rating?
You cannot legally grant a new lease or continue an existing one.
What are the penalties for non‑compliance?
Fines up to £150,000 depending on rateable value.
What exemptions exist under MEES?
7‑year payback exemption
All improvements made exemption
Devaluation exemption
Consent exemption
All improvements made exemption
Devaluation exemption
Consent exemption
How do I register a MEES exemption?
Through the PRS Exemptions Register. CCA Environmental can assist with evidence and submission.
Can CCA Environmental help improve EPC ratings?
Yes — through modelling, upgrade strategies, and Level 5 EPC analysis.
BOILER UPGRADE SCHEME
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
A government grant supporting the installation of low‑carbon heating systems.
How much funding is available?
Up to £7,500 for air‑source heat pumps.
Who is eligible?
Most domestic and small non‑domestic properties.
What are the benefits?
Lower running costs, reduced carbon emissions, and improved EPC ratings.
Can CCA Environmental advise on heat pump suitability?
Yes — through EPC modelling and energy assessments.
What is an air source heat pump?
A low‑carbon heating system that extracts heat from the outside air.
Do heat pumps improve EPC ratings?
Yes — often significantly.
Are heat pumps suitable for commercial buildings?
Yes, especially small offices, retail units, and modern buildings.
What are the running cost benefits?
Heat pumps can reduce heating energy use by 30–50%.
Can heat pumps help with MEES compliance?
Yes — they are one of the most effective upgrade measures.
CARBON FOOTPRINT & MODELLING
What is a building’s carbon footprint?
The total greenhouse gas emissions from its energy use, materials, and operation.
How can I reduce my building’s carbon footprint?
Through insulation, efficient HVAC, renewables, and smart controls.
What is building energy modelling?
A digital simulation of a building’s energy performance.
Why is modelling beneficial?
It identifies cost‑effective improvements and supports MEES, EPC, and sustainability goals.
Does CCA Environmental offer modelling services?
Yes — including Level 5 DSM modelling using IES.
GENERAL ENERGY & COMPLIANCE
What is BREEAM?
A sustainability assessment method rating buildings from Pass to Outstanding.
What does BREEAM measure?
Energy, water, materials, waste, health, transport, pollution, and management.
What is the WELL Building Standard?
A certification focused on occupant health, wellbeing, and comfort.
Can CCA Environmental support BREEAM or WELL?
CCA can provide energy modelling, EPCs, and sustainability guidance that support these frameworks.
How do I know which assessment I need?
The total greenhouse gas emissions from its energy use, materials, and operation.
Can one survey cover multiple requirements?
Often yes — EPC, TM44, and MEES assessments can be combined.
Do energy improvements always require major works?
No — many improvements are low‑cost and quick to implement.
How do I book an assessment?
Contact CCA Environmental via the enquiry form or phone.
Do you offer nationwide coverage?
Yes — CCA Environmental covers all of the UK.
How fast can you attend site?
Typically within 48–72 hours depending on location.