Case Study: Complex Level 4 EPC Assessment for artsdepot, London N12 0GA

Client Overview

artsdepot is a vibrant arts and entertainment venue located in North Finchley, London, serving as a cultural hub for the local community. The building spans over 6,000 square metres across five floors and was constructed in 2004.

The Challenge

artsdepot approached Generation Consulting Limited with an urgent requirement: they needed a Level 4 EPC assessment completed within two weeks to support their lease renewal negotiations. This presented several significant challenges:

Technical Complexity

• Building Scale: Over 6,000m² across 5 floors with complex architectural features

• HVAC System: Sophisticated air distribution system utilizing multiple Air Handling Units (AHUs)

• Zoning: Over 70 individual thermal zones requiring detailed modelling

• Missing Data: No existing documentation for AHU specifications, ductwork leakage rates, or Specific Fan Power (SFP) values

• Time Constraints: Two-week deadline for a project that would typically require considerably longer

The combination of the building's architectural complexity and the need for accurate modelling of the extensive AHU system made this a particularly demanding Level 4 assessment.

Our Approach

Drawing on our experience working with the charity and cultural sectors, including previous projects with Groundwork UK, we understood the operational and financial pressures artsdepot faced. Our team:

1. Conducted comprehensive site surveys to capture the building's complex architecture and HVAC infrastructure

2. Created detailed thermal modelling with over 70 zones to ensure accuracy

3. Applied professional expertise to work with software defaults where historical data was unavailable, while maintaining compliance and accuracy

4. Delivered within deadline without compromising on the quality of the assessment

Key Findings & Recommendations

EPC Rating Achieved

C-71 - A solid rating that accurately reflects the building's 2004 construction and current HVAC system performance.

Energy Efficiency Improvement Opportunities

We identified several practical improvements that could enhance the building's energy performance:

1. AHU and Ductwork Testing

   • Air leakage testing of AHUs and ductwork

   • Investigation of actual SFP values for the AHU system

   • Potential Impact: Using actual measured data rather than software defaults could improve the EPC rating

2. Motor Efficiency Upgrades

   • The original 20+ year-old system remains in good condition

   • Modern electric motors offer significantly improved efficiency

   • Budget-dependent upgrade that could deliver long-term energy and cost savings

3. System Optimization

   • Further investigation of the AHU systems to optimize performance

   • Potential for controls and BMS improvements

Outcomes

✓ EPC delivered on time - Two-week deadline met, enabling lease renewal to proceed
✓ C-71 rating achieved - Accurate assessment reflecting the building's age and systems
✓ Clear improvement pathway - Actionable recommendations provided for future energy efficiency gains
✓ Professional partnership - Complex technical challenge managed with expertise and efficiency

Why This Matters

Property managers and commercial building owners face increasing pressure to:

• Meet lease requirements and regulatory compliance

• Understand their building's energy performance

• Plan cost-effective energy efficiency improvements

• Work to tight timescales

This project demonstrates Generation Consulting Limited's ability to deliver accurate, compliant Level 4 EPC assessments for complex commercial properties, even under challenging time constraints.

Project Statistics

| Building Type | Arts & Entertainment Venue | | Floor Area | 6,000+ m² | | Floors | 5 | | Thermal Zones | 70+ | | HVAC System | Multiple AHUs with air distribution | | Construction | 2004 | | Assessment Level | Level 4 | | Completion Time | 2 weeks | | Final Rating | C-71 |

About Generation Consulting Limited

We specialize in energy assessments for complex commercial properties, bringing technical expertise and practical understanding to every project. Our experience spans the charity sector, cultural venues, and diverse commercial properties across London and beyond.

Need a Level 4 EPC assessment? Whether you're facing a tight deadline or dealing with a technically complex building, we deliver accurate, compliant assessments with actionable recommendations.

Contact us: www.generation.co.uk