Energy performance certificate: What you need to know
The energy performance certificate provides information about the energy consumption of a building at a glance. As with electrical appliances, a colour scale shows whether the building is energy-efficient (green) or energy-intensive (red). But what exactly does the energy performance certificate contain and why is it so important? We explain.
Mandatory information in the energy performance certificate
Every property owner must present an energy performance certificate when marketing their property. This contains:
- Type of energy certificate (demand or consumption).
- Final energy demand or final energy consumption.
- Main energy sources for heating.
- Year of construction of the property.
- Energy efficiency class (for residential buildings).
- Separation of final energy for heat and electricity (for non-residential buildings).
Why is the energy performance certificate mandatory?
Legislation stipulates that buyers or tenants must be informed about the energy status of a building. This enables them to better estimate future energy costs.
Demand certificate vs. consumption certificate
There are two types of energy performance certificate:
- Requirement certificate: Based on a technical analysis of the building (building fabric, system technology). Informative, but more complex and expensive.
- Consumption certificate: Based on energy consumption data from the last three years. Less meaningful as it depends heavily on individual user behaviour.
Energy efficiency: the greener, the better
Properties with low energy consumption fulfil modern standards and are therefore more attractive:
- From 75 kWh/(m²a): EnEV 2014 standard (green area).
- From 50 kWh/(m²a): EnEV 2016 standard, e.g. KfW 55 or KfW 70 houses.
Who is authorised to issue energy performance certificates?
The issuing of the energy performance certificate is reserved for qualified specialists. These include
- Architects and civil engineers (for new buildings and existing properties).
- Heating cost billing company (for consumption certificates).
Costs for energy certificates
The costs vary depending on the type of ID card:
- Requirement certificate: Up to €300, as an on-site technical analysis is required.
- Consumption certificate: From around €100, based on consumption data.
Beware of cheap offers on the Internet: Quality and accuracy are not always guaranteed.
Conclusion: Professional advice pays off
The energy performance certificate is essential for selling or letting your property. Rely on experienced experts to avoid mistakes and unnecessary penalties.
Get non-binding advice now
Robert Schüßler
Property valuer (EIA and IHK)
Note: This text is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Please consult an expert if you have individual questions.
