Surveyors in Scotland can now conduct assessments for Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for existing building stock after a protocol agreement was signed this week.
RICS Scotland signed the protocol with the government’s Scottish Building Standards Agency (SBSA).
EPCs were introduced to Scotland following EU legislation and will provide information about the energy efficiency of a building to potential buyers and leasers.
Commercial properties will require an EPC when put on the market for sale or lease and will remain for 10 years.
An EPC will form part of the single survey when introduced in late 2008 for residential sales.
Non-residential properties will require an EPC from 4 January 2009.
Members of RICS who are either Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) or technical members (TechRICS) are now able to conduct assessments provided they have training with the necessary software and knowledge of Scottish building stock and the relevant building regulations.
However, no further accreditation is required, but RICS members must meet the requirements outlined in the SBS protocol, which includes the requirement of training on the relevant approved software.
RICS Scotland is looking at training and guidance for members and is now the fourth professional body whose members can provide EPC assessments in Scotland.
Graeme Hartley, Director of RICS Scotland said:
"The signing of this protocol is an important step forward, particularly with the forthcoming single survey.
"It will enable surveys and EPCs to be done together, providing best value for the public.
"The approach for delivering EPCs in Scotland is very different to other parts of the UK in that they will be provided by existing professionals, rather than creating a new organisation.
"This will mean that on larger existing buildings , Chartered Surveyors can work with architects and engineers to help deliver EPCs.
"I would like to thank the SBSA and our members for helping us to complete the arrangements."
Residential EPCs generated in Scotland are to be registered with the Home Energy Efficiency Database (HEED) which is run by the Energy Savings Trust.
Paul Stollard, Chief Executive of SBSA added:
"The agreement between RICS and the SBSA will, I believe, make a significant contribution towards the delivery of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland and therefore in meeting domestic and European requirements.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to offer my personal thanks to the RICS for their commitment in this respect."
Any RICS members wishing to be kept informed about future EPC training events should contact RICS Scotland Events e events-scotland@rics.org.
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