Display Energy Certificates (DEC).
Operational energy ratings for public buildings — based on how much energy your building actually uses, not its design. We produce your DEC and advisory report and keep you on top of renewals.
A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) shows the actual, measured energy performance of a building based on its metered consumption over the previous twelve months. Unlike an EPC — which rates a building’s design — a DEC reflects how the building is really run, rated on an A–G scale against a typical benchmark.
DECs are required for large public buildings that are frequently visited by the public, and must be displayed prominently. They are accompanied by an advisory report setting out cost-effective measures to improve energy performance.
Your DEC, start to finish.
Energy assessment
We gather twelve months of metered energy data, calculate your operational rating and produce the DEC itself, ready to display.
Advisory report
The required advisory report identifying practical, cost-effective measures to cut your building’s energy use and improve its rating.
Renewals & reminders
DECs need renewing on a set cycle. We track your deadlines and prompt you in good time so you never fall out of compliance.
When you need a DEC
- Your building is occupied by a public authority or institution providing a public service.
- It has a total useful floor area over the qualifying threshold and is frequently visited by the public.
- Your existing DEC is approaching its renewal date — annual for larger buildings, longer for smaller ones.
One accredited team, start to finish.
Accredited assessors
Produced by accredited energy assessors and lodged correctly, so your certificate is valid and enforceable.
Clear, actionable advice
The advisory report flags the measures most likely to move your rating, prioritised by value — not a generic checklist.
Deadline tracking
We keep your renewal dates on file and remind you ahead of time, so a lapsed DEC never lands you a penalty.
One provider
Combine your DEC with EPCs, SBEM and air testing across a portfolio and deal with one team throughout.
Display Energy Certificates — your questions
What is the difference between a DEC and an EPC?
An EPC rates a building’s theoretical energy performance based on its design and construction. A DEC rates its actual operational energy use, based on real metered consumption over the last 12 months. Public buildings often need both.
Which buildings need a DEC?
DECs are required for buildings occupied by public authorities and frequently visited by the public, above a qualifying floor area. Typical examples include schools, hospitals, libraries, leisure centres and council offices.
How often does a DEC need renewing?
For buildings over 1,000 m², the DEC is valid for one year and the advisory report for seven. For smaller qualifying buildings, the DEC is valid for ten years. We’ll confirm the cycle that applies to you and track it.
Where does the DEC have to be displayed?
The DEC must be displayed prominently in a place clearly visible to the public — typically the main entrance or reception area of the building.
Related services
Get a quote for display energy certificates.
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