What is a TM44 inspection and who needs it?

A TM44 inspection is a legal assessment of your building’s air conditioning system to ensure it runs efficiently and complies with UK regulations. If your property has a combined AC output over 12kW, you need one by law.

What happens if I don’t get a TM44 inspection?

Failing to get a TM44 certificate can result in fines up to £1,000. It also affects your energy efficiency and could complicate property sales, leases, or insurance.

How long does a TM44 inspection take?

Most TM44 assessments take just 1–2 hours on-site, depending on your AC system’s size. You’ll get a fully accredited report within 48–72 hours.

1. How do I book a TM44 inspection in the UK?

To book a TM44 inspection, you first confirm that your building has air-conditioning systems over 12 kW. You then request a quote from a qualified TM44 provider, agree on the scope and price, and confirm a suitable inspection date. Once the inspection is completed, you receive your TM44 report and certificate.

2. Can I book a TM44 inspection online?

Yes. Most TM44 inspections can be booked online by submitting a quote request through the provider’s website. After reviewing your building and system details, the provider will confirm pricing and arrange the inspection date.

3. What information do I need to book a TM44 inspection?

You typically need the building address, the type of building, and basic information about the air-conditioning systems such as the number of units or system type. An asset list helps but is not mandatory, as assessors can collect missing details during the inspection.

4. How long does it take to book and complete a TM44 inspection?

Booking usually takes one to two working days after submitting a quote request. The on-site inspection typically lasts between one and three hours, depending on system size. Reports and certificates are usually issued within three to five working days, or faster for urgent inspections.

5. Who is responsible for booking a TM44 inspection?

Responsibility usually falls on the building owner, landlord, managing agent, or the party responsible for the air-conditioning systems. This can vary depending on lease agreements, so it is important to clarify responsibility early.

6. Do I need to shut down my air-conditioning systems for the inspection?

No. TM44 inspections are non-invasive and observational. In most cases, systems continue operating normally during the inspection, and there is no disruption to building occupants.

7. What happens if I delay booking a TM44 inspection?

Delaying a TM44 inspection can lead to non-compliance if your certificate expires. Local authorities can request proof of compliance at any time, and failure to provide a valid TM44 certificate may result in enforcement action or fines.

8. How often do I need to book a TM44 inspection?

TM44 inspections are required every five years for qualifying air-conditioning systems. You should book a new inspection before your existing certificate expires to avoid compliance gaps.

9. Can I book a TM44 inspection urgently?

Yes. Many providers offer emergency TM44 inspections, often completing the inspection and issuing the certificate within 24 to 48 hours. This is useful if you are facing a compliance deadline, audit, or property transaction.

10. How much does it cost to book a TM44 inspection?

The cost depends on the number of air-conditioning systems, site complexity, location, and urgency. While prices vary, the cost of an inspection is usually far lower than potential fines or the operational risks of non-compliance.

How to Book a TM44 Inspection in the UK (Step-by-Step Guide for 2026)

How to book a TM44 inspection in the UK for commercial buildings step by step

January 14, 2026

Written by TM44 UK TEAM

Booking a TM44 inspection should be simple.
Yet many UK businesses delay it, book it incorrectly, or only take action when fines or enforcement letters arrive.

If you are a building owner, landlord, managing agent, or facilities manager and you are unsure how to book a TM44 inspection, what information you need, how long it takes, or how to avoid delays, this guide explains the process clearly, step by step.

This article shows how to book a TM44 inspection in the UK in 2026, based on how inspections actually work in practice.

How to Book a TM44 Inspection in the UK (Quick Summary)

If you want the short version, the TM44 booking process looks like this:

Confirm your building requires a TM44 inspection
Gather basic site and air-conditioning details
Request a TM44 inspection quote
Confirm inspection date and access
Receive your TM44 report and certificate

If you are ready to start, you can request a quote directly via https://tm44.uk/get-quote/

What Is a TM44 Inspection?

A TM44 inspection is a mandatory energy efficiency inspection for air-conditioning systems in non-domestic buildings.

It applies when the combined rated output of the air-conditioning systems exceeds 12 kW.

The inspection:

Reviews how efficiently your AC systems operate
Identifies energy waste and improvement opportunities
Produces a TM44 report and certificate valid for five years

If you want a full explanation, read:
What Is a TM44 Inspection?
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/what-is-a-tm44-inspection/

Who Needs to Book a TM44 Inspection?

You need to book a TM44 inspection if:

Your building is commercial or mixed-use
The total AC capacity is over 12 kW
Your TM44 certificate has expired or is missing
You are selling, leasing, or managing the property
You want to stay compliant with UK regulations

If you are unsure about the 12 kW threshold, this guide explains it clearly:
Air Conditioning Systems Over 12kW – TM44 Requirements
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/air-conditioning-over-12kw-tm44-requirements-2025-2026/

Step 1: Confirm That Your Building Requires a TM44 Inspection

Before booking, confirm three things:

Is the building non-domestic?

TM44 inspections apply to commercial buildings. Residential-only properties are excluded unless shared or commercial systems are present.

Is the combined AC output over 12 kW?

Multiple smaller systems are added together. Many sites exceed the threshold without realising it.

Is your TM44 certificate valid?

TM44 certificates are valid for five years.

If you are unsure, this compliance guide helps:
Do I Need a TM44 Inspection? (UK Compliance Guide)
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/do-i-need-a-tm44-inspection-uk-compliance-guide/

Step 2: Gather the Information Needed to Book a TM44 Inspection

To book a TM44 inspection smoothly, have the following ready if possible:

Building details

Full site address
Building type (office, retail, warehouse, etc.)
Approximate size or layout

Air-conditioning details

System types (split, VRF, rooftop units)
Approximate number of units
Asset list or drawings if available

Access details

Site contact name and phone number
Access restrictions or permits
Preferred dates

If you manage complex systems, this article is useful context:
AC Efficiency Problems TM44 Inspectors Keep Finding
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-ac-efficiency-problems/

Step 3: Request a TM44 Inspection Quote

Once you have the basics, the next step is requesting a quote.

A proper TM44 inspection quote should consider:

Number of systems
Site complexity
Location
Urgency

You can request a quote here:
TM44 Inspection Quote Request
https://tm44.uk/get-quote/

To understand why quoting early matters, read:
Why Requesting a TM44 Inspection Quote Is the First Step Toward Energy Efficiency
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-inspection-quote-energy-efficiency-first-step/

Step 4: Choose a Qualified TM44 Inspection Provider

Not all assessors are TM44 qualified.

Before booking, make sure the provider:

Uses trained TM44 assessors
Works to CIBSE TM44 guidance
Issues and lodges certificates
Explains findings clearly

This article explains how professional providers add value:
How TM44 Inspection Companies Reduce Energy Waste and Operating Costs
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-inspection-companies-reduce-energy-waste-operating-costs/

Step 5: Book the Inspection Date and Time

After the quote is approved, booking is straightforward.

Most TM44 inspections:

Take 1–3 hours
Can be completed during normal working hours
Do not require shutting down systems

If you need urgent compliance, use the emergency option:
Emergency TM44 Inspections
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/emergency-tm44-inspections-2025/

Step 6: Prepare the Site for the TM44 Inspection

Basic preparation prevents delays.

Before the visit:

Ensure plant rooms and rooftop units are accessible
Arrange keys or permits if needed
Inform site staff
Have documentation ready

Use this checklist to prepare properly:
TM44 Inspection Checklist
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-inspection-checklist-2025/

Step 7: What Happens During the TM44 Inspection

During the inspection, the assessor will:

Review system layout and controls
Inspect a representative sample of units
Assess efficiency and suitability
Identify energy-saving opportunities

For a full walkthrough, read:
What Happens During a TM44 Inspection?
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/what-happens-during-tm44-inspection/

Step 8: Receive Your TM44 Report and Certificate

After the inspection:

The report is prepared
The TM44 certificate is issued
Documentation is provided digitally

If you manage buildings for audits or EPCs, this is useful:
Why Building Managers Rely on TM44 Inspection Companies for EPC and Audit Readiness
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-inspection-companies-epc-audit-readiness/

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a TM44 Inspection

Avoid these common issues:

Waiting until enforcement deadlines
Booking non-qualified providers
Underestimating system size
Ignoring expired certificates

For cost comparison, read:
TM44 Inspection Cost vs Non-Compliance Fines
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-inspection-cost-vs-non-compliance-fines/

For enforcement context, see:
TM44 Enforcement Powers Explained (2026)
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-enforcement-powers-inspections-fines-2026/

How Much Does It Cost to Book a TM44 Inspection?

Costs depend on:

Number of systems
Site complexity
Location
Urgency

If your focus is energy savings, this article is relevant:
Top 10 TM44 Fixes That Cut Energy Bills
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/top-10-tm44-fixes-cut-energy-bills-2026/

Why Businesses Choose tm44.uk

Businesses choose tm44.uk because we provide:

UK-wide coverage
Qualified assessors
Clear pricing
Fast turnaround
Certificate lodgement
Ongoing support

If you manage multiple sites, read:
TM44 for Multi-Site Businesses (UK Guide)
https://tm44.uk/news-blog/tm44-for-multi-site-businesses-uk/

👉 Request your TM44 inspection quote today
https://tm44.uk/get-quote/

1. How do I book a TM44 inspection in the UK?
To book a TM44 inspection, you first confirm that your building has air-conditioning systems over 12 kW. You then request a quote from a qualified TM44 provider, agree on the scope and price, and confirm a suitable inspection date. Once the inspection is completed, you receive your TM44 report and certificate.
2. Can I book a TM44 inspection online?
Yes. Most TM44 inspections can be booked online by submitting a quote request through the provider’s website. After reviewing your building and system details, the provider will confirm pricing and arrange the inspection date.
3. What information do I need to book a TM44 inspection?
You typically need the building address, the type of building, and basic information about the air-conditioning systems such as the number of units or system type. An asset list helps but is not mandatory, as assessors can collect missing details during the inspection.
4. How long does it take to book and complete a TM44 inspection?
Booking usually takes one to two working days after submitting a quote request. The on-site inspection typically lasts between one and three hours, depending on system size. Reports and certificates are usually issued within three to five working days, or faster for urgent inspections.
5. Who is responsible for booking a TM44 inspection?
Responsibility usually falls on the building owner, landlord, managing agent, or the party responsible for the air-conditioning systems. This can vary depending on lease agreements, so it is important to clarify responsibility early.
6. Do I need to shut down my air-conditioning systems for the inspection?
No. TM44 inspections are non-invasive and observational. In most cases, systems continue operating normally during the inspection, and there is no disruption to building occupants.
7. What happens if I delay booking a TM44 inspection?
Delaying a TM44 inspection can lead to non-compliance if your certificate expires. Local authorities can request proof of compliance at any time, and failure to provide a valid TM44 certificate may result in enforcement action or fines.
8. How often do I need to book a TM44 inspection?
TM44 inspections are required every five years for qualifying air-conditioning systems. You should book a new inspection before your existing certificate expires to avoid compliance gaps.
9. Can I book a TM44 inspection urgently?
Yes. Many providers offer emergency TM44 inspections, often completing the inspection and issuing the certificate within 24 to 48 hours. This is useful if you are facing a compliance deadline, audit, or property transaction.
10. How much does it cost to book a TM44 inspection?
The cost depends on the number of air-conditioning systems, site complexity, location, and urgency. While prices vary, the cost of an inspection is usually far lower than potential fines or the operational risks of non-compliance.