ShareStrengthening TM44 compliance: UK businesses face heavier fines for air conditioning inspection failures
UK businesses are now facing significantly higher fines for failing to comply with the TM44 Air Conditioning Inspection regulations, with potential penalties amounting to a collective cost of hundreds of millions of pounds.
UK businesses that fail to comply with TM44 Air Conditioning Inspection Regulations could soon face significantly higher fines, potentially costing the industry hundreds of millions of pounds collectively. According to Green Zone Surveys, the UK government is cracking down on non-compliance to boost energy efficiency and ensure adherence to sustainable energy practices.
The proposed penalty increase – up to £800 per offence, with additional weekly fines until compliance is achieved – sends a strong message: ignoring mandatory air conditioning inspections is no longer an option.
TM44 inspections assess the efficiency of a building’s air conditioning systems, helping businesses: reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, cut operating costs
Despite their benefits, many businesses have neglected these inspections due to historically weak enforcement. A 2020 government consultation revealed widespread dissatisfaction with the current penalty system, which is overseen by Local Weights and Measures Authorities (LWMAs) and enforced by Trading Standards Officers (TSOs).
|
Current System |
Proposed Changes |
|---|---|
|
Fines for non-compliance, but inconsistent enforcement |
£800 fixed penalty per offence |
|
Additional weekly fines until compliance |
Repeated weekly fines until a valid TM44 report is submitted |
|
No legal obligation to implement recommended changes |
Stricter monitoring, but still no mandate to act on recommendations |
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