You've likely heard of both TM44 inspections and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), but what's the real relationship between them?
At ACI Reports, we're experts in commercial energy assessments, and in this article we’ll explain why understanding the link can be valuable for your business.
Understanding TM44 Surveys
A TM44 report is a legal requirement for all commercial buildings in England and Wales with air conditioning systems that have an effective rated output of more than 12kW.
This isn't just a recommendation, it's a mandatory assessment that must be completed every five years.
The primary purpose of the inspection is to assess the energy efficiency of your AC system.
Our certified air conditioning assessors will evaluate the system's operational efficiency, its size relative to the building's needs, and how well it is being maintained.
The inspection results in a formal report that provides clear recommendations for how you can improve energy performance and reduce running costs.
Understanding EPC Inspections
An EPC certification provides an overall rating of a building's energy efficiency. Much like the energy labels on household appliances, an EPC assigns a grade from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
This certificate is required whenever a commercial building is built, sold or rented, and it is valid for 10 years.
While an EPC inspection considers many factors, including insulation, lighting, and heating, its goal is to give an overall view of the building's energy usage and carbon emissions.
It serves as a valuable tool for prospective buyers or tenants to understand a property's potential energy costs.
The Crucial Link between Your TM44 and EPC
So, what's the connection? Think of it this way: a building's air conditioning system is often one of its largest energy consumers. Because of this, the operational efficiency of your AC system directly influences your building’s overall EPC rating.
The findings from a TM44 inspection directly inform the EPC assessment.
The data and recommendations detailed in your TM44 report can be used by an EPC assessor to achieve a more accurate and, in many cases, more favorable EPC rating.
By ensuring your AC system is efficient and compliant through a TM44 inspection, you're taking a significant step toward improving your building's overall energy performance and securing a better EPC score. This combined approach allows for a truly comprehensive energy assessment.
What This Means For You
Understanding the link isn’t just about compliance, it’s about protecting your investment and maximizing your property's value.
- Compliance and Fines: Both inspections are legal requirements. Non-compliance can lead to significant fines, so tackling both proactively is a smart business decision.
- Cost Savings: An efficient AC system, identified through a TM44 survey, leads to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills. A better EPC rating also signals lower running costs, which is a major benefit for your bottom line.
- Market Value: A higher EPC rating makes your property more attractive and marketable. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, a building with a strong energy performance certificate stands out to potential buyers and tenants.
Why Choose ACI Reports?
At ACI Reports, we specialise in both TM44 and EPC certification, offering a streamlined process that saves you time and ensures accuracy.
We don't just provide a report, we give you a detailed plan for improving your building's energy performance. By entrusting both assessments to us, you can be confident that the data from one will seamlessly inform the other, leading to a more complete and beneficial outcome for your property.
Trust ACI Reports to help you navigate these assessments with expertise and care.
Get in touch today to schedule your inspections and unlock the full energy-saving potential of your property.