Display Energy Certificates (DEC)

A legal requirement for public buildings over 250m² that are frequently visited by the public. Fast, accredited assessments to ensure your compliance and showcase your operational energy efficiency.

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✓ Accredited DEC Assessors✓ Advisory Report Included✓ Landmark Register Lodgement✓ Competitive Public Sector Rates

What is a Display Energy Certificate?

A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) shows the actual energy usage of a building (the Operational Rating) and helps the public see the energy efficiency of a building in a clear, A to G scale.

Unlike an EPC which rates the theoretical potential of the building's fabric, a DEC is based on actual energy consumption over the last 12 months (gas, electricity, and any other fuels).

It must be accompanied by an Advisory Report which highlights recommendations to improve the energy performance of the building.

Do You Need One?

You are legally required to have a DEC if your building meets all of the following criteria:

  • ✓ It is at least partially occupied by a public authority (e.g. council, school, NHS)
  • ✓ It has a total useful floor area over 250m²
  • ✓ It is frequently visited by the public
Fines for non-compliance:

Failing to display a DEC carries a £500 fine, and failing to have a valid advisory report carries an additional £1,000 fine.

Validity Periods

The required frequency of your DEC renewal depends on the size of your building.

Over 1,000m²

Large public buildings like secondary schools, hospitals, and large council offices.

DEC: Every 1 Year
Advisory Report: Every 7 Years
250m² – 1,000m²

Smaller public buildings like primary schools, clinics, and local libraries.

DEC: Every 10 Years
Advisory Report: Every 10 Years

What You Need to Provide

Because a DEC is based on actual energy usage, our assessor will need the following information before the certificate can be lodged:

  • 1
    12 Months of Energy Data
    Meter readings or utility bills spanning exactly one year (e.g. 1st April to 31st March) for electricity, gas, oil, or district heating.
  • 2
    Floor Plans
    Required to accurately calculate the Gross Internal Area (GIA) of the building if a previous assessment is not available.
  • 3
    Site Access
    The assessor must visit the site (unless it is a Year 2-9 renewal for a >1000m² building where no major changes have occurred).

Request a DEC Quote

Provide your building details and we will reply with a fixed quote.