Energy performance certificates fail to boost action

A survey by the institute found only 21% of owners or tenants would ask for recommendations made by energy assessors providing the EPCs to be implemented.

Almost 30% of clients commissioned detailed surveys from their assessors. One quarter of clients asked for advice to be costed. Most owners or renters commissioned only a standard EPC. A third of energy assessors felt that most clients were looking for the lowest possible cost for a certificate without other considerations.

John Field, director of energy management consultancy Power Efficiency Ltd, said: "One would hope for a higher percentage eventually, but the emphasis has understandably been on compliance."

There will be a gradual rise in focus on the rating and grade achieved and on ways to improve this, he believes.

The institute believes buildings which receive F or G grades should be required to implement the recommendations made by energy assessors which would have the highest impact on their rating.

Roll-out of EPCs for commercial buildings is now complete. All commercial buildings must have a certificate when sold or rented.