Anyone looking to sell a property prior to it being built will need a Predicted Energy Assessment (PEA), which assesses the building’s energy efficiency potential. PEAs are a legal requirement when selling an unbuilt or unfinished property, and they let potential buyers and relevant authorities know that the property will meet the current energy efficiency standards and expectations.
PEAs are used for planned properties or those still under construction, and are similar to the Energy Performance Certificate required for existing properties. Assessors use the drawings and plans for the building to gauge its energy efficiency potential, considering the likes of heating and ventilation systems, the level of insulation, as well as any double or triple-glazing that will be installed. PEAs also consider the use of any renewable energy sources.
The main elements of a PEA consist of the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for thermal energy, and the Environmental Impact Rating, also known as the CO2 rating. The latter is primarily concerned with the energy efficiency of the property in terms of carbon dioxide emissions.
Why PEAs Are Important
UK law requires all buildings under construction to have a PEA, regardless of whether the owner intends to sell or not. They will usually be supplied to the owner or buyer by the company in charge of the building’s construction. You will need to produce a PEA for any new build properties you own, which should be acquired at the end of the planning stage once the Design Final SAP calculation has been submitted.
There are separate certificates for domestic and commercial properties, with incomplete properties receiving the OCEPC (On Construction Energy Performance Certificate). Public buildings require the addition of a Display Energy Certificate (DEC). Also note that air conditioning systems may require a separate Air Conditioning Inspection certificate.
Who Conducts PEAs?
PEAs must be conducted by qualified Energy Assessors who will be accredited by the government. You can speak to a member of the team here at Brecker Grossmith to find Energy Assessors in your local area.
After Construction is Complete?
Both sellers of unbuilt properties and those who buy them should be aware that the PEA is only relevant while the building remains unfinished. Once construction is complete, the PEA must be replaced with the usual Energy Performance Certificate for existing buildings.The updated certificate will document the actual energy efficiency of the property, as opposed to the predicted energy efficiency outlined in the PEA.
The process of securing the necessary energy efficiency certifications will also highlight areas where energy efficiency can be improved, which can be especially useful prior to beginning the construction work.
If you want to find a local Energy Assessor or learn more about Predicted Energy Assessments and Energy Performance Certificates, then contact Brecker Grossmith today to speak to an experienced team of chartered surveyors specialising in commercial property in London.
