DECs are only needed for large buildings (over 1,000 sq m useful floor area) that are open to the public, and occupied by public authorities and similar bodies. Organisations likely to be affected included central government, local government, NHS trusts, maintained and community schools, the police courts, prisons, and the armed forces. Executive agencies and statutory regulatory bodies will also be covered. Note this only applies to buildings that are likely to be frequently visited by the public (eg hospitals, schools, leisure centres, municipal golf clubs, public libraries, museums). For example, a leisure centre (if large enough) will require a DEC whether it is operated by the LA or it is contracted out. But a shopping centre would not require a DEC because that is not the sort of service usually or traditionally provided by the public sector. Likewise, an office block housing a government call centre would not need a DEC because the public would not be visiting. © Practical Lawyer