Display Energy Certificate data checklist for a London public building
A DEC uses measured energy, so a complete meter and occupancy story matters as much as the building address.
Confirm that the building is in scope
A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) is generally required where a public authority occupies all or part of a building with more than 250 square metres of total useful floor area and the public visits frequently. A private office does not become subject to the DEC duty simply because it is large. The government's public-building guide explains the tests.
Identify the building and the meters
Start with the address, floor area, principal use and the area that the certificate will cover. List electricity, gas and other relevant energy supplies with their meter identifiers. Where one meter serves several buildings or another occupier, flag this before the assessor begins. A tidy spreadsheet is useful, but the underlying bills or meter records still matter.
Assemble the consumption period
A DEC is based on actual energy use, ordinarily over the preceding 12 months. Check that the dates run continuously and that each fuel has a consistent unit. If bills overlap, contain estimates or leave a gap, note it rather than silently adding figures. Explain major occupancy changes or unusual operating hours so the assessor can understand the record.
Check the certificate and advisory report dates separately
For buildings over 1,000 square metres, a DEC normally lasts one year and the accompanying advisory report seven years. For qualifying buildings over 250 and up to 1,000 square metres, both normally last 10 years. The displayed certificate must be visible to visitors, and the occupier must hold a valid advisory report. See GOV.UK's DEC overview for the current thresholds and durations.
To arrange a Display Energy Certificate assessment, send the building details, meter records and current certificate or advisory report if you have them. We can then identify missing evidence before the assessment is scheduled.