The energy performance of a home weighs ever more heavily on its market value. What does a poor EPC rating actually mean for your sale price?
The energy performance of a home has become one of the most important drivers of value in the property market. With stricter European and Flemish regulation, the EPC rating is central to every purchase and sale.
What does a poor EPC rating actually mean?
A home with label E or F is harder to sell and is systematically valued lower by buyers. Banks also apply higher interest margins for poorly insulated properties. Research shows that a difference of two EPC labels can cause a price difference of 10 to 25%.
Which renovations have the most effect?
Roof insulation and facade insulation have the greatest effect on the EPC rating. A new heating installation (heat pump, condensing boiler) and high-performance glazing also improve the rating significantly. Solar panels raise overall energy performance but have less impact on the building envelope.
Renovation obligation in Flanders
When you buy a home with label E or F in Flanders, you are required to renovate it to at least label D within five years. A certified valuer always takes this into account in the valuation.