Cost guide
How much does a Public building energy display (DEC) cost?
Are you looking for a Display Energy Certificate (DEC) for your public building? You're in the right place to understand the costs. Most public buildings will find their DEC costs fall between £200 and £600 nationally. This guide explains what influences these prices and what you get for your money. A DEC helps show your building's energy performance. It's a useful tool for managing energy and saving on bills.
Typical price
£200 to £600
What changes the price
Building Size
Larger buildings take more time to assess, which can increase the cost.
Building Complexity
Buildings with many different zones or unusual features might require more detailed work.
Data Availability
Having easily accessible, accurate energy bills and operational data can save time and reduce costs.
Assessor Travel
If your building is far from the assessor, travel costs might be added to the price.
Urgency
Needing a DEC very quickly can sometimes mean a higher fee.
Number of Buildings
If you need DECs for several buildings, you might get a discount per building.
Prices by region
| Region | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | £280 | £480 | £600 |
| South East | £250 | £450 | £580 |
| South West | £230 | £420 | £550 |
| East of England | £240 | £430 | £560 |
| Midlands | £220 | £400 | £530 |
| North West | £210 | £390 | £520 |
| North East and Yorkshire | £200 | £380 | £500 |
| Scotland and Wales | £210 | £390 | £520 |
Questions people ask
What exactly is a Display Energy Certificate (DEC)?
A DEC shows the actual energy use of a public building over the last 12 months. It provides an energy rating from A to G, with A being the most efficient. It also comes with a recommendation report.
How often do I need to renew my DEC?
If your building is over 1,000 square metres, you generally need to renew your DEC every year. For buildings between 250 and 1,000 square metres, a renewal is needed every ten years. Your assessor can confirm the exact renewal period for your specific property.
What information do I need to provide for a DEC assessment?
You'll need to provide 12 months of energy bills for all fuels used in your building. This includes electricity, gas, and any other heating or cooling sources. Having these readily available will help speed up the process.
What is a Recommendation Report?
The Recommendation Report comes with your DEC and suggests ways to improve your building's energy performance. It includes measures you could take and their potential cost savings. This report is valid for seven years, even if your DEC needs annual renewal.
Can I get a discount for multiple buildings?
Yes, many assessors offer reduced rates if you need DECs for several properties. It is always worth discussing this with potential providers. CertifySpace can help you compare quotes for multiple buildings efficiently.
How long does it take to get a DEC?
Once all necessary energy data is provided, an assessor can usually complete a DEC within a few working days. The overall time depends on how quickly you can gather your building's energy bills and arrange an assessment visit.