™Compliance
Energy performance certificates when letting: check local rules
If you let property anywhere in the EU, one document keeps coming up: the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Here is what it is and why it matters for landlords.
An EU framework, national requirements
The EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive sets a framework for certificates when buildings are sold or rented and for information in advertisements. National schemes, implementation dates and exemptions determine the duties for a particular property: Certificado Energético in Portugal, CEE in Spain, DPE in France and Energieausweis in Germany. Check the current national rules rather than assuming identical obligations across the EU.
What it means in practice
- Confirm whether certification is required and obtain a valid certificate before advertising where the national rules require it.
- Show the energy rating in your listing where your country requires it.
- Provide the certificate, label or other required information to the tenant in the form and at the time required locally.
- Some countries also restrict letting the least efficient homes — check your national rules.
Note: this is general information, not legal advice. The exact obligations and any letting restrictions are national and change — check your country’s scheme before you advertise.