Energy Performance Certificates when selling property: Everything you need to know
Anyone wishing to sell or let a house or flat cannot avoid the Energy certificate There’s no getting round it. If this document is missing or is not submitted by the deadline, fines of up to 15,000 euros. Find out here what types of energy performance certificates are available and what you need to bear in mind.
What is an energy performance certificate?
The energy performance certificate shows at a glance the Energy standard of a building. Among other things, it contains information on:
- Energy efficiency classes: Scale from A+ (very efficient) to H (high energy consumption)
- Type of heating: e.g. gas, oil or district heating
- Year of construction of the property
For buyers and tenants, the energy performance certificate is an important guide for estimating energy consumption and the resulting costs.
Energy performance certificate or consumption certificate? Explaining the differences
There are two types on energy performance certificates:
1. The certificate of need
The needs assessment is based on a theoretical calculation energy requirements. Factors such as the following play a role here:
- Insulation of external walls
- Energy efficiency of windows
- Heating system and construction method
The needs assessment certificate is particularly suitable for New buildings or properties without consumption data. It provides an objective basis, but does not take into account the residents’ individual heating habits.
2. The consumption certificate
The consumption certificate is based on the actual energy consumption over the last three years. The data is taken from heating bills and hot water consumption. It is cheaper than the energy performance certificate, but less meaningful, as it depends heavily on the occupants.
Who is authorised to issue an energy performance certificate?
Only qualified professionals are authorised to issue energy performance certificates. These include:
- Architects and civil engineers
- Master craftsman with appropriate additional training
- Certified Energy consultant
Make sure you choose reputable providers. Cheap offers on the internet are often of poor quality. You can find lists of independent experts, for example, at KfW Bank, the dena or the BAFA.
When do you need an energy performance certificate?
The energy performance certificate must be provided no later than Viewing must be submitted for the property. Breaches of the regulations may result in fines of up to 15,000 euros. The following therefore applies to sellers and landlords: The energy performance certificate is Obligation.
Get in touch now
Robert Schüßler
Property valuer (EIA and IHK)
Photo: © shironosov
