EPCs for commercial and public buildings

Energy performance certificates are mandatory for the owners of commercial and public buildings when the buildings are put up for sale or rent or when construction is completed. This category of buildings includes schools and hospitals.

EPCs for existing and new buildings

EPCs are mandatory when either existing or new commercial or public buildings are put up for sale or rent. When space is rented to new tenants, the building’s owner must give each new tenant a copy of the EPC. When a building is sold, the previous owner must give the buyer the EPC.

Requesting an EPC

The procedure for registering an EPC for a commercial or public building is different than for a residence. As the owner of such a building, you do not receive a provisional EPC and cannot convert it online into a definitive one. You have to employ an accredited expert yourself. The expert inspects the building on the basis of a number of criteria. After the inspection you, as the building owner, receive an EPC. The expert has the EPC registered.

Visibly displaying the EPC

Government bodies in public buildings with a floor area of 250 square metres or more must display the EPC so that it is clearly visible for the public. This can be done in the reception area or near the entrance, for example.

Owners of other public buildings with a floor area of 250 square metres or more (such as hospitals, shops, supermarkets, restaurants, theatres, banks and hotels) must also display an EPC if they have one.

Questions about EPCs?

If you are a business person and have questions about EPCs, please contact the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

EPC monitoring

The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate will check whether you have a definitive EPC when your commercial or public building is put up for sale or rent or when construction is completed.