Public building energy display (DEC)
Book Public building energy display (DEC)A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) displays the operational energy efficiency of a public building. It uses actual energy consumption figures over the last 12 months, rather than calculated estimates. This allows building users to see how efficiently the building is being run.
When do you need a Public building energy display (DEC)?
A DEC is legally required for public buildings with a total useful floor area over 250 square metres occupied by a public authority or providing public services. They must be renewed annually for buildings over 1000 square metres and every 10 years for buildings between 250 and 1000 square metres.
What happens on the day
An assessor will visit your property to collect data on the building's characteristics and energy meters. They will need access to all areas and previous 12 months of energy bills.
How to prepare
- Gather 12 months of energy bills (gas, electricity, any other fuels).
- Ensure clear access to all energy meters.
- Have details of your building's heating and cooling systems.
- Provide any existing building plans or layouts if available.
How to improve your result
- Monitor energy consumption regularly to identify spikes or unusual patterns.
- Implement energy-saving measures, such as LED lighting or improved insulation.
- Encourage staff and users to adopt energy-efficient practices.
- Review and optimise heating and cooling schedules.
Why it is useful day to day
Having a DEC helps public authorities demonstrate their commitment to energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. It also encourages improvements that can lead to lower running costs.
Why we ask these questions
We ask about your property type, size, and previous energy consumption to understand its energy profile. This information helps us estimate the complexity of the assessment and provide an accurate quote.