FAQ: Zero Trace | Energy Performance Certificates Birmingham | EPC

To begin with, it will cost nothing. At Zero Trace we appreciate that you don’t want to pay for savings that are yet to happen. Which is why we work on a result based fee structure, meaning that we commit to being your energy consultants for a one year period for free. We will work closely with you to reduce your energy consumption over this time through habitual changes, energy monitoring, and alterations to your property portfolio. At the end of the first year we calculate the percentage saving based on the previous year’s energy spend and retain a portion of the money saved. This calculation also takes into account the increase in annual fuel costs and changes in production. After the first year there is an option to retain Zero Trace on an ongoing contract to ensure savings continue to grow, or clients can continue work in house.

How long will the process take?

The process of reducing energy consumption is one that is ongoing. A continuous effort is required in order to reduce energy consumption and keep it as low as possible. The first stage of the Zero Trace energy solution lasts for one year, but our services can be retained as long as they are needed.

How much could I save?

The amount of energy that could be saved is relative to each individual client. However, in most cases a saving of 10-20% is achievable, some even achieve 40% plus.

How do I know that the solutions offered are the best for my organisation?

Zero Trace Ltd. Is an independent consultancy service that is not connected to any one product, service, or company. We are always tailoring our solutions for each individual client and ensuring the products and services we recommend are of the highest quality and are proven to work.

Will installing energy monitoring equipment effect production or cause down time?

No. The energy logging equipment that is used is totally none invasive. As a result no equipment needs to be shut down during it’s installation

How much does a commercial EPC cost?

The cost of a commercial EPC varies and each quote is prepared on a job-by-job basis dependent on a number of factors including, size, use, location and the availability of plans.

What level of qualification do Zero Trace Ltd assessors have?

Zero Trace Ltd is proud to be able to offer level 3 & 4 EPC reports. This enables us to supply reports for 98% of buildings on the market.

How can I be sure of the quality of your work?

Zero Trace assessors are trained and assessed under the ABBE code of practice and accredited by STROMA. Regular audits are carried out by an independent third party to assure the quality of the work carried out.

How long does an EPC report take?

At Zero Trace we appreciate that sometimes an EPC can hold up a property transaction. As such we guarantee all reports within 10 working days of instruction dependent on access. In circumstances where reports are needed more urgently we are able to work to much shorter deadlines.

How long is an EPC valid for?

10 Years, or until improvements are made to the building that alter its external structure or heating/cooling systems.

Which buildings are exempt from needing EPCs?

Places of worship, temporary buildings with a planned life of under two years, stand alone buildings measuring less than 50m2, a building that is planned for demolition, and a building that has no heating or cooling system installed.

I have a commercial property with a flat above. Can I have the whole property assessed under one report?

If the flat above is accessible only through the commercial unit then it will need one commercial EPC for the whole building. However, if the flat has its own access that does not involve accessing the commercial unit, then it will need one commercial and one residential EPC.

How much does a DEC cost?

The cost of a commercial DEC varies and each quote is prepared on a job-by-job basis dependent on a number of factors including, size, use, location and the availability of plans.

How long is a DEC valid for?

1 year.

How long will it take to calculate a DEC report?

We guarantee all reports within 10 working days of instruction dependent on access. In circumstances where reports are needed more urgently we are able to work to much shorter deadlines.

How can I be sure of the quality of the report?

Do I need a DEC if I am not in the public sector?

No, DEC reports are currently only required for public sector buildings that are frequently visited by the public. Ie Town Halls and Libraries etc.