The energy performance certificate defines the energy performance of a building. The EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is mandatory and valid for 10 years. It allows a potential buyer or owner considering renovations to know exactly the energy footprint of a house or flat.

What is the Energy Passport?

The energy performance certificate is a document that contains the results of an energy performance study of a building. It has been mandatory since 2007. Valid for 10 years, it is considered a source of information. Even if poor energy performance is found, the owner is not obliged to remedy it.

The energy passport is drawn up by architects and consulting engineers recognised by the Ministry of the Economy and by "Myenergy" certified advisors.

When to get an energy passport?

Buildings that are to be demolished are not required to have an energy performance certificate, provided that they do not have a heating system. Properties that are passed on as part of an inheritance or donation do not have to undergo an energy audit.

However, in the following cases, an energy pass is mandatory:

- New construction
- Extension
- Alterations to a dwelling subject to planning permission (wall, roof or windows) of more than 10% which have an impact on energy performance
- Works not requiring planning permission (wall, roof, windows) of more than 10 % of the surface area before works and having an impact on energy performance
- In the case of a sale or rental
- In the case of demolition of a wall or roof of a dwelling in which there is a heating installation
- Conversions of energy installations for an amount exceeding €1,500 if the house is a single-family dwelling, €3,000 for a multi-family dwelling.

New buildings are required to meet NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) standards. This corresponds to an energy class AAA. Only a few exceptions are tolerated if these are due to the location of the building.