Did you know ?

Since July 2021, the method for calculating the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) for residential properties has been thoroughly revised to simplify its interpretation and improve its reliability. What information is now considered, and how has the classification of properties evolved?

The EPC is a document that outlines the energy characteristics of a property, including its heating, hot water production, cooling, and/or ventilation systems. The EPC now consists of a single label derived from the two previous ones:

• The energy label, ranging from green to red, which indicates the primary energy consumption (from A to G).
• The climate label, purple in colour, which shows the amount of greenhouse gases emitted (from A to G).

It is important to note that the new label depends on both energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, so these two factors must be balanced. As such, properties with a lower rating (E, F, G) will gradually be banned from rental from 2025 onwards. Future buyers and owners of "thermal sieve" properties will need to plan for renovations.

Another key change is that blank EPCs are no longer permitted. A diagnostic must now be carried out for all residential properties, with some specific exceptions. Additionally, the calculation based on bills is no longer used, as it was deemed unreliable. The new estimates now take into account factors such as lighting and auxiliary consumption, among others.

At Midi-Pyrénées Sotheby’s International Realty, we are committed to supporting buyers in their energy renovation projects by offering, for example, the assistance of our specialised partners.