The importance of Energiepass when putting a property up for sale
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Rudolphe ABEN
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When selling or renting a property, there are a number of regulations that must be complied with, particularly with regard to the energy performance of the building. The Energiepass, an energy performance certificate, has become compulsory when a property is put up for sale, in accordance with article 17 of the Grand-Ducal Regulation of 09/06/2021. In this article, we will discuss the importance of the Energiepass, its role and the consequences of not having it when putting a property up for sale.
The Energy Performance Certificate obligation
The Grand-Ducal Regulation stipulates that a potential buyer or tenant must be able to consult the energy performance certificate of the building as soon as he expresses his interest, even before signing a contract. This means that the certificate must be available at this stage. The Energiepass is therefore an essential document that must be drawn up and presented before any property transaction.
The role of the Energiepass
The purpose of the Energiepass is to assess the energy performance of a building and to inform potential buyers or tenants. It measures the energy consumption of the building, taking into account its insulation, its heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system and any integrated renewable energy production. The Energy Performance Certificate assigns a rating from A (very efficient) to G (poorly efficient), which allows future occupants to estimate the energy costs associated with the property and compare the energy performance of different properties.
The consequences of not having an Energy Performance Certificate
Despite this obligation, it is common for the Energiepass to be issued only at the time of the notarial act, as notaries will not proceed without this document. This can lead to delays in the property transaction and, in some cases, penalties for the vendor who has not complied with the regulations in force.
It would therefore be prudent for estate agents to request this document before publishing an advertisement for sale. This would ensure compliance, inform potential buyers and tenants from the start of the sales or rental process, and avoid delays and possible sanctions.
The Energy Performance Certificate is an essential document when putting a property up for sale or rent. By informing potential buyers and tenants about the energy performance of the building, it raises their awareness of energy efficiency and helps them to make informed choices. It is therefore essential that sellers and estate agents comply with the current legislation and provide an Energy Performance Certificate at the start of the sales or rental process.