Tom Whelan CEO of IEA welcomes new government guidance anounced on the 9th September 2008.

 “This new transitional arrangement will give our customers an opportunity to apply the new EPBD and government regulations in a structured way, engaging us on properties which are actually in a transaction and have an immediate requirement, whilst prioritising those still being marketed, giving the commercial property market much needed time to make this adjustment”.

Mr Whelan further stated;

“over the last  month we have seen a significant increase in the number of enquiries from around the country in relation to EPCs, indicating that there will be a high degree of compliance with the new regulations”.

The guidance from CLG was as follows;

On Tuesday, 9 September 2008 regulations on EPCs were updated to respond to consumer and industry needs. These will come into force for October 2008 and include:

• extending the validity period of the EPC for homes when marketed for sale - currently one year - to three years (this has been the result of extensive consultation)
• clarifying arrangements for the October roll-out for commercial buildings already on the market which will be similar to those put in place in April and July. This means that any non-domestic building on the market before 1st October and remaining on the market will need an EPC by 4th January at the latest. If it is sold or rented out in the meantime, an EPC must be commissioned and then handed over as soon as is practicable. This measure is intended to make it easier for owners and landlords to comply with the legislation, avoid market fluctuations and is in response to expectations from the industry.

Source: IEA/CLG

Environmental measures have been identified by businesses as cost cutting mechanisms.

A survey of companies by government-funded Envirowise revealed that 85 per cent of businesses rated waste prevention, reducing raw material use and energy recovery as the best steps to cut business costs.

According to the organisation, the findings show that enterprises are becoming aware of the benefits of ‘going green’.

Programme manager Elaine Sharp said: “With fuel, energy and raw material costs continuing to rise and changes in the economy persisting in creating challenging marketplaces, there has never been a better time to lead the way in using resources wisely, eliminating waste and ultimately raising environmental standards.”

A “difficult and risky climate” for business has been forecast for the next six to nine months by the British Chamber of Commerce, making any costs savings important for the survival of businesses.

There are various steps which can be implemented in buildings to reduce their overall environmental impact and their costs.

Water conservation and energy efficiency devices can significantly reduce bills, with Envirowise claiming that taking care of water can save up to 30 per cent on water costs.

Source; Energy Saving Trust. 03 September 2008