Why is an energy performance certificate required?
An energy performance certificate is mandatory when selling real estate. However, not all energy performance certificates are created equal. Property owners can choose between a consumption-based and a demand-based energy performance certificate. What criteria determine whether the more affordable consumption-based certificate is right for you? We'll tell you!
The energy performance certificate provides information about a property's energy efficiency. It allows for an estimation of expected energy costs and thus serves as an important decision-making tool for prospective buyers and tenants. An energy performance certificate is therefore mandatory for every property sale.
The consumption-based energy performance certificate is cheaper
The consumption-based energy performance certificate is significantly cheaper than the demand-based one. The price ranges from approximately €25 to €100, while a demand-based certificate can cost €500 or more. As the name suggests, it provides information about the amount of energy consumed by the property. The calculation is generally based on actual energy consumption data from at least the last three years. This data naturally depends on the individual heating habits of the residents, but even more so on the building's insulation.
Only for properties with more than five residential units
In principle, property owners are free to choose which of the two energy performance certificates they want to have issued – however, certain legal requirements apply. A consumption-based energy performance certificate can only be issued for properties with five or more residential units. The situation is different if the building permit for the property in question was submitted after November 1, 1977. In that case, a consumption-based certificate can also be issued for a residential building with up to four apartments. Another exception applies if the residential building with up to four units was built before November 1, 1977, but already meets the energy efficiency standards of the first Thermal Insulation Ordinance of 1977 or has been renovated or modernized accordingly – in this case, a consumption-based certificate is also permitted. For all other buildings, a demand-based energy performance certificate is mandatory.
Beware of disreputable providers
Not all energy performance certificate providers are reputable – and this can become a real problem for property owners. If the energy performance certificate is defective or missing by the time of the viewing appointment, a fine of up to €15,000 can be imposed! Therefore, pay close attention to who you choose to have issue your certificate.
The energy performance certificate is usually issued by qualified and certified professionals such as energy consultants, architects, civil engineers, and chimney sweeps. Make sure your consultant is independent. Your local professional real estate agent can provide you with impartial advice. They will know exactly which certificate is right for you and tell you when and by whom it needs to be issued.
Do you have questions about the energy performance certificate? Or are you looking for someone to professionally prepare one? Contact us! We'd be happy to advise you.
No results found:
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energieausweis
https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/daten/energie/energieverbrauch-nach-energietraegern-sektoren
Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice for any specific case. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your individual situation.
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About the author
Harry Mohr
Real estate agent (Chamber of Industry and Commerce)Harry Mohr, author of this article
