Energy Performance Certificates in Canary Wharf

Common property types

• Modern high-rise apartments: The dominant property type around Canary Wharf, in towers like Pan Peninsula, Landmark, and Baltimore Wharf. These typically achieve B or C ratings with double glazing, modern insulation, and efficient centralised heating systems. Assessments are straightforward.
• Converted dockside warehouses: Found around Limehouse Basin, Millwall, and along the docks. Victorian and Edwardian industrial buildings converted to residential use. Quality and EPC ratings vary widely depending on the standard of conversion.
• 1990s Docklands developments: The first wave of residential development around Canary Wharf in the 1990s. These mid-rise blocks have less efficient construction than newer buildings and may score C or D. Some are now reaching the age where boilers and windows need replacement.
• Victorian terraces in Poplar: Away from the towers, streets in Poplar and parts of Limehouse retain Victorian terraced houses with solid brick walls and traditional construction. These score similarly to period housing elsewhere in East London.

Typical EPC issues we find in Canary Wharf

• Communal heating systems: Many Canary Wharf apartment buildings use centralised or district heating. The EPC methodology assesses these differently from individual boilers, and the assessor needs to obtain the system's efficiency data from building management. This can sometimes delay the process.
• Single-aspect apartments: Some high-rise apartments, particularly studios and one-beds, have windows on only one side. While this doesn't directly affect the EPC calculation, poor natural ventilation can lead to overheating and reliance on mechanical systems.
• Floor-to-ceiling glazing: Many modern towers have extensive glass facades. While impressive, large glazed areas can increase heat loss compared to insulated walls, and the EPC calculation considers the ratio of glazing to wall area.