Energy certificates Inspections
that increased and improved training for trading
CIBSE campaigns on EPCs
standards would make them more effective arbitrators.
‘We have been involved in validating EPCs where there A campaign to help train and educate trading standards
has been a disparity between two surveys. Similar officers (TSOs) in the enforcement of rules on EPCs,
buildings can have quite different EPCs, caused by DECs and air conditioning systems is being launched
the ‘default’ position of the system – trading standards by CIBSE.
could have an independent stance policing this if they Factsheets have already been created by the
were to have the knowledge.’ institution on all three topics, which include what
East Sussex Trading Standards is one authority that the regulations are in England and Wales, why they
has adopted a proactive approach towards enforcement have been introduced and how they affects TSOs.
of EPCs and DECs. TSO Paul Taylor is on a two-year The factsheets also include what powers TSOs
fixed contract to ensure compliance levels are high have, what to do if a person is non-compliant, and
within the county. the appeals process.
‘This has included assessing the present level of Jacqueline Balian, managing director of CIBSE
compliance, responding to complaints and enquiries, Services, says: ‘CIBSE has provided guidance for
and carrying out a comprehensive programme of trader TSOs on the type of buildings that are likely to need air
education, while also raising community awareness conditioning inspections and on how to interrogate
through the local media and presentations,’ explains the Landmark register to see that buildings have the
Manchester town hall... Local
Taylor. appropriate EPC or DEC.’
trading standards officers are
‘For retailers who continue to breach the legislation, More details on the campaign will be issued soon.
to be targeted by a new CIBSE
robust enforcement action will be considered. To campaign.
Whittle
To date we have had no
experience of enquiries or
istock/Matthew
enforcement intervention of any
sort by authorities such as trading
standards – John Field
date, this has been unnecessary due to the industries
involved taking on board the advice and ensuring their
operating practices are meeting the requirements.’
Taylor has created relationships with all organisations
that require DECs to ensure advice and education can be
given to assist them in identifying their requirements
and provide continuing support. ‘Projects have been
carried out with regard to commercial properties and
this has identified poor levels of compliance,’ he says.
‘This has therefore highlighted the need for further
work in this area to increase awareness – and, if
needed, enforcement action will be carried out.’
The authority believes its work towards promoting
the message that non-compliance with EPC and AC
requirements is not an option is achieving the desired
results – increasing the awareness of energy efficiency
in buildings.
Indeed, CIBSE is soon to embark on its own
campaign to raise awareness of EPCs, DECs and ACs
among TSOs and to offer training courses to improve
enforcement. It is hoped this initiative will help TSOs
nationally to take a much more active role in the
enforcement of the regulations.
It is conceivable that the slump in the housing
market may be limiting the number of resultant
problems, which could see more referrals to trading
standards made in the future when sales pick up. But
only time will tell if this will lead to more prominent
policing of the energy certificate market. l
www.cibsejournal.com November 2009 CIBSE Journal 37
CIBSEnov09 pp34-37 EPC.indd 37 22/10/09 15:17:44
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