If you have air conditioning in your commercial building, there’s a good chance your system will require a TM44 inspection. 

Curiously, many building managers are unsure what this type of inspection involves, when one is needed, or whether the relevant regulations apply to their systems.

A TMM44 inspection helps:

  • Improve the energy efficiency of the air conditioning systems at your location
  • Reducing your running costs
  • Lower carbon emissions, and
  • Ensure compliance with relevant UK regulations

Arrange a TM44 inspection today

What is a TM44 inspection?

A TM44 inspection is an official energy assessment of a commercial air conditioning system. 

It establishes how efficiently a system is operating, identifies opportunities to improve performance, reduces energy consumption, and contributes to lower overall operating costs. 

This type of inspection must be carried out by accredited assessors, and forms part of the UK’s compliance framework for commercial buildings.

Want to know what the process involves? Our air conditioning energy assessments page has the answers.

What types of buildings need a TM44 inspection?

It’s a common misconception that only large buildings require TM44 inspections.

Instead, the regulations apply to any commercial building with air conditioning systems that total more than 12kW combined cooling output. 

Several smaller split systems combined can quickly exceed the 12kW threshold.

This applies to many building types, including:

  • Offices
  • Retail premises
  • Hotels
  • Healthcare facilities
  • Warehouses
  • Industrial sites
  • Schools and universities

If you’re reading this and wondering, “Do I need a TM44?”, you should consult an accredited specialist.

Ask us about TM44 assessments

How often is a TM44 inspection required?

TM44 inspections are required by law every five years. 

Major changes to a building or its air conditioning systems, such as replacement equipment or significant upgrades, may make it sensible to review compliance sooner.

Meeting TM44 requirements ensures your business is compliant, and demonstrates that your systems are being assessed for energy efficiency and their environmental impact.

It’s important to remember that TM44 inspections don’t mean that regular maintenance can be neglected.

Our air conditioning maintenance contracts spread the cost of servicing, reducing the risk of breakdowns while extending the expected lifespan of your equipment. 

What happens during a TM44 inspection?

An accredited assessor reviews your building’s air conditioning systems and associated controls.

This will typically consist of:

  • Reviewing system type, size, and age
  • Assessing controls and operating settings
  • Evaluating maintenance records
  • Identifying inefficient operation or oversized equipment
  • Checking airflow and ventilation strategies
  • Recommending energy-saving improvements

Once an assessment is complete, you’ll receive a TM44 inspection report that outlines what’s been discovered along with any recommendations to improve efficiency.

This process helps businesses to:

  • Reduce energy consumption
  • Lower operating costs
  • Improve environmental performance
  • Extend system lifespan
  • Demonstrate legal compliance

How much does a TM44 inspection cost?

TM44 inspection cost will vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Number of systems
  • Building size and complexity
  • Accessibility of equipment
  • Total cooling capacity

Inspections at smaller buildings with simpler systems will cost less than those at multi-site or complex commercial settings.

While business owners might worry when asking ‘How much is a TM44 inspection?’, the cost of compliance is minimal when compared to the energy savings that it can identify (and the penalties applied for non-compliance).

What happens if you don’t have a TM44?

 

If your business doesn’t comply with TM44 requirements, it may be subject to enforcement action and financial penalties.

In practice, this means:

  • Fines for non-compliance
  • Requests to provide valid inspection certificates
  • Increased scrutiny during audits or property transactions

As well as the legal risks, a system that isn’t assessed might be operating at a sub-optimal level, leading to unnecessary energy costs and increased chance of breakdowns.

Learn more here about air conditioning installation solutions for commercial buildings.

How to arrange a TM44 inspection

It’s easy to arrange a TM44 inspection when you work with an accredited provider. 

The process will typically involve:

  1. Reviewing your existing air conditioning systems
  2. Confirming whether your building exceeds the 12kW threshold
  3. Scheduling a site visit with an accredited TM44 assessor
  4. Receiving your inspection report and recommendations

It’s essential that you keep accurate records of any inspections and maintenance to ensure that you remain compliant

TM44 inspection FAQs

Does my building need a TM44 inspection?

If your commercial air conditioning systems exceed 12kW combined cooling output, you’re legally required to arrange a TM44 inspection.

How often do I need a TM44 inspection?

Every five years under UK regulations.

How much does a TM44 inspection cost?

Costs depend on system size, building complexity, and the number of units requiring inspection.

What happens if I don’t have a TM44 certificate?

You may face financial penalties and enforcement action for non-compliance.

Book your TM44 inspection today

As an accredited TM44 inspector, ICE supports commercial clients to ensure compliance, improve their system’s efficiency, and reduce operating costs. 

 

Our professional TM44 inspections and ongoing support make it simple to meet your statutory TM44 requirements while also saving you money.

 

Arrange your TM44 inspection today by getting in touch.