The Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008 aim to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and reduce carbon emissions. The regulations require the provision of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) when buildings are constructed, sold, or rented, to inform prospective owners or tenants about the energy performance of the property.

Key requirements include:

1. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs): Must be provided during the construction, sale, or rental of buildings, detailing the building's energy efficiency and recommendations for improvement.
2. Display Energy Certificates (DECs): Public buildings over 250m² frequently visited by the public must display a DEC showing the building’s energy performance.
3. Inspection of Air Conditioning Systems: Regular inspections of air conditioning systems with an effective rated output of more than 12 kW to ensure efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

These regulations apply to:

• Building Owners
• Landlords
• Sellers
• Real Estate Agents
• Public Authorities

Overall, the regulations ensure transparency in energy performance, promote energy efficiency, and contribute to environmental protection.

The Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008 stipulate specific evidence requirements to ensure compliance:

1. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs):
   • Provision: An EPC must be provided to potential buyers or tenants at the earliest opportunity.
   • Content: The EPC must include the building's energy efficiency rating and recommendations for improvement.
   • Validity: EPCs are valid for 10 years and must be updated as needed.
2. Display Energy Certificates (DECs):
   • Public Display: Public buildings over 250m² frequently visited by the public must display a DEC.
   • Annual Renewal: DECs must be renewed annually.
   • Advisory Report: Accompanying the DEC, an advisory report is required, valid for seven years, outlining measures to improve energy performance.
3. Air Conditioning Systems Inspection:
   • Regular Inspections: Air conditioning systems with an output of more than 12 kW must be inspected at regular intervals (at least every five years).
   • Inspection Reports: Detailed inspection reports must be maintained, outlining the system's efficiency and recommendations for improvements.
4. Documentation:
   • Record Keeping: Property owners and managers must keep records of all EPCs, DECs, and air conditioning inspection reports.
   • Availability: These documents must be made available to relevant authorities upon request.

These evidence requirements ensure transparency in energy performance and facilitate ongoing improvements in building energy efficiency.