What is an energy certificate?
An energy certificate is a document that assesses a property on a scale of energy performance from A+ to F, where the former is considered very efficient and the latter not very efficient.
This document is issued by specialized technicians and authorized by the Energy Agency (ADENE), which regulates the energy certification of buildings (SCE).
The energy certificate is compulsory for anyone selling or renting a house, from the moment the owner or real estate agent promotes the property.
How is a house classified in terms of energy certification?
The relevant factors in determining a property's classification include its location, the year it was built, whether it is a house or a building, the floor and area, as well as the constitution of the walls, roofs, floors, among others... The equipment associated with air conditioning, such as ventilation, heating, cooling and the production of domestic hot water, is also part of the set of factors.
The certificate assesses the insulation of windows, ventilation, air conditioning and domestic hot water production and their effect on energy consumption, and points out measures to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort.
In July 2021, new rules came into force that aim to make buildings (housing and services) more efficient, reducing their consumption and emissions and contributing to the fight against climate change.
Of the new rules, we highlight those that consist of the following operations:
- Periodic inspections of technical heating, cooling and ventilation systems;
- Installing infrastructure and charging points for electric vehicles in new buildings or those undergoing major renovations, as well as in commercial and service buildings with more than 20 parking spaces (with exceptions);
- Ensuring that new buildings have almost zero energy needs;
- Installing automation and control systems in buildings with greater energy needs, for more economical, safe and efficient energy management;
- Financial incentives to support building renovations.
How do I apply for an energy certificate?
To apply for an energy efficiency certificate, start by looking for qualified experts in your area of residence, via the Certify is Valuing website. Look carefully at the valuations of different experts, as you may find differences in the price you pay.
You'll need some documents, such as copies of the building's floor plan, urban land registry (via the tax office portal), certificate of registration at the registry office and the house's technical data sheet or other documents with technical specifications, to apply for certification.
The calculations made by the expert will then be entered into the National System for Energy Certification and Indoor Air Quality in Buildings. You can consult a version before the certificate is issued.
I don't understand the energy certificate for my house. Can you help me?
The energy certificate classifies various parameters of your home, such as the insulation of the windows and walls or the energy consumption for heating and cooling the room. Therefore, the energy performance of your home is assessed on the basis of the energy consumption mentioned above.
The certificate shows various pieces of information, the most visible being the energy class. The values are compared with those obtained for a reference building similar to yours. Although it has its weaknesses, this is the only way to achieve as objective a comparison as possible between buildings in the same category.
How valid is an energy certificate?
In the case of residential buildings, the period of validity is ten years. At the Housing and Energy Desk, a partnership between Deco and the local authorities, we are able to advise you on which measures have the most potential to reduce your energy consumption and improve thermal comfort at home.
Source: Idealista/News