Many still have doubts as to whether or not the Energy Performance Certificate is compulsory and its scope. What is it? Who does it affect? What is it for? Is it compulsory?

This article aims to clear up the doubts we’ve been hearing:

1– What is the Energy Performance Certificate?

It is an official document that shows the energy efficiency rating of a property (home, retail premises, office space, etc.), a description of its energy characteristics and recommendations for improvement.

For the document to be valid, it must be registered with an official body of the autonomous community.

2- Who does it affect?

Except for some exceptions (historical buildings, etc.) all homes, retail premises and buildings up for sale or rent are required to have this certificate as of 1 June 2013.

3- Is it compulsory?

Owners or intermediaries selling or renting a property are required to have and display this document. Absence of this document is governed by Royal Decree 235/2013. The certificate is valid for 10 years.

4- What if I don’t have a certificate?

Any owner or intermediary that tries to sell or rent a property without the certificate after 1 June 2013 may receive up to three types of fines, ranging in severity and from 300 to 6,000 euros.

5- What is its purpose?

The Energy Performance Certificate aims to regulate and work towards more efficient and sustainable construction in terms of the environment.

This certification program also aims to encourage leasing and purchasing of more eco-friendly properties.