Display Energy Certificate
DEC for public buildings
Understanding Display Energy Certificates (DECs)
Display Energy Certificates (DECs) provide a clear indication of a building’s actual energy consumption, helping organisations monitor and improve their energy efficiency. Unlike Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which assess a building’s potential efficiency based on its design, DECs focus on real-world energy usage.
What is a Display Energy Certificate?
A DEC is a legal requirement for public buildings in the UK with a total useful floor area over 250m² that are frequently visited by the public. It must be prominently displayed to provide transparency about the building’s energy performance. The certificate includes:
An energy rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
A benchmark comparison against similar buildings.
A breakdown of annual energy consumption data.
Why Are DECs Important?
DECs play a crucial role in driving energy efficiency improvements and carbon reduction in public-sector buildings. Benefits include:
Greater awareness of energy consumption and potential savings.
Encouragement of energy efficiency investments.
Regulatory compliance to avoid fines for non-compliance.
Public accountability by displaying real energy performance.
Who Needs a DEC?
A DEC is required for public buildings over 250m² that are occupied by a public authority and frequently visited by the public. Key points include:
Buildings over 1,000m² require an annual DEC and advisory report.
Buildings between 250m² and 1,000m² need a DEC every 10 years, with no advisory report requirement.
Private-sector buildings do not currently require a DEC but may voluntarily obtain one to track performance.
Why Choose Generation Consulting for DECs?
✅ Elmhurst Approved Assessors - fully accredited for DEC assessments
✅ London specialists - experienced across councils, NHS properties, schools, and civic buildings
✅ Renewal reminders - we track your expiry dates so you don't have to
✅ Advisory Report included - we don't just hand you a certificate, we help you understand what it means
✅ Fast turnaround - assessments completed efficiently with minimal disruption to your building
Our DEC Process
1. Book your assessment
Contact us with your building details. We'll confirm what energy data we need from you (typically 12 months of meter readings).
2. Data collection & site visit
We gather your energy consumption data and carry out a site visit to verify building details and floor areas.
3. DEC issued
Your Display Energy Certificate is lodged on the national register and delivered to you - ready to display immediately.
4. Advisory Report
Alongside your DEC, we produce a full Advisory Report identifying energy-saving measures and estimated savings - a useful tool for your organisation's sustainability planning.
Display Energy Certificate FAQs
What happens if we don't display a valid DEC?
Trading Standards officers can issue a £500 fixed penalty fine for failing to display a valid DEC, and a separate £1,000 fine for failing to have a valid Advisory Report. It's an easy compliance box to tick - don't let it slip.
Our DEC has expired - can you help urgently?
Yes. Contact us and we'll prioritise your assessment to get you compliant as quickly as possible.
Do we need a new DEC if we've made energy improvements?
You can request a new DEC at any time if you've made improvements and want the rating to reflect them. A better score is worth having on display.
What energy data do we need to provide?
Typically 12 months of gas, electricity, and any other fuel meter readings. We'll send you a checklist when you book so you can gather everything in advance.
Can you assess multiple buildings for our organisation?
Yes - we regularly work with local authorities and NHS trusts across multiple sites. Get in touch to discuss a multi-site arrangement.
Get Your DEC Sorted Today
Don't wait until an inspector notices an expired certificate on your wall. Get in touch and we'll have your DEC issued and displayed before it becomes a problem.
📞 Call: 07453 249 591
✉️ Email: enquiry@generation.co.uk
Address:
124 City Road
London, EC1V 2NX
Registered in England no: 08900037
Contacts
+44 (0) 7453 249 591
enquiry@generation.co.uk
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