Understanding Display Energy Certificates in London: Compliance and Benefits for Public Buildings

For public buildings and properties frequently accessed by the public in London, a Display Energy Certificate (DEC) is a legal requirement designed to promote transparency and improve energy efficiency. Unlike an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which estimates potential energy performance, a DEC reflects the actual energy consumption of a building over the previous year. This blog explores the laws governing DECs, the assessment process, certification requirements for landlords and public authorities, council mandates, and pricing details to help building managers and landlords stay compliant.
Legal Requirements for Display Energy Certificates

Display Energy Certificates are mandated under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations for public buildings in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Buildings that require a DEC typically:

• Are occupied by public authorities or institutions providing public services.
• Have a total useful floor area greater than 250 square metres.
• Are frequently visited by the public.

For buildings over 1,000 square metres, DECs must be renewed annually, while buildings between 250 and 1,000 square metres have DECs valid for 10 years. DECs must be displayed prominently in a public area, usually in an A3 size format, to inform visitors about the building’s energy usage.
Failure to display a valid DEC and the accompanying Advisory Report can result in fines of up to £1,500 enforced by local authorities. The Advisory Report provides recommendations for improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

The Process of Obtaining a Display Energy Certificate

Obtaining a DEC involves several key steps:

• Initial Assessment: An accredited Low Carbon Energy Assessor collects data on the building’s actual energy consumption over the past year, including electricity, gas, and other fuels.
• Site Visit: The assessor inspects the building’s systems such as heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation to understand energy usage patterns.
• Data Analysis: Using official software, the assessor calculates the building’s operational energy rating, comparing it against benchmarks.
• Report Preparation: The DEC and the accompanying Advisory Report are produced, outlining the energy rating and practical recommendations for improvement.
• Submission and Display: The DEC is registered with the national register, and a physical copy must be displayed prominently within the building.

The process requires cooperation from building managers and access to energy consumption records for accuracy.
Certification Process for Landlords and Public Authorities

Landlords or managing authorities must ensure:

• The DEC is issued by a qualified and accredited Low Carbon Energy Assessor.
• The certificate is valid and displayed according to regulations.
• The Advisory Report is available for review and used to guide energy-saving measures.
• Records of DECs and reports are maintained for inspections by local authorities.

Proper certification and adherence to DEC requirements demonstrate legal compliance and commitment to sustainability.
Council Requirements in London

London borough councils enforce DEC regulations as part of their environmental and licensing policies. Public buildings and those providing public services must:

• Provide a valid DEC and Advisory Report during licensing or inspection processes.
• Display the DEC prominently to inform occupants and visitors.
• Implement recommendations from the Advisory Report to improve energy efficiency where feasible.

Non-compliance can lead to enforcement actions including fines and restrictions on building use.
Pricing of Display Energy Certificate Services in London

The cost of obtaining a DEC depends on building size, complexity, and the assessor’s fees. Typical pricing ranges are:

• Buildings between 250 and 1,000 m²: £300–£700
• Buildings over 1,000 m²: £700–£1,500+

Prices may vary based on urgency, data availability, and additional consultancy services. Many providers also offer energy-saving advisory support alongside DEC issuance.
Booking Your Display Energy Certificate London

For landlords and public authorities seeking professional and accredited services, booking your Display Energy Certificate London through trusted providers ensures compliance with government regulations and supports energy efficiency goals. Their experienced assessors deliver thorough evaluations, detailed reports, and practical recommendations tailored to your building.