What is an Energy Performance Certificate? Do I need one for my property? Is it different than an “Energy Label?” What are the costs associated with getting one? What actions do I need to take as a property owner in Greece?
It’s likely you have some of these questions in your head as you think about buying or selling in Greece. Perhaps is the first time you’ve heard the term “EPC.” We’ll help demystify what EPC’s mean to you as a buyer and seller, and what actions (if any) you need to take to be issued a certificate.
What is an EPC?
“Energy Performance Certificates”, simply put, measure the energy efficiency of buildings in Greece. “Energy Label” is another word used for EPCs and means the same thing.
EPC’s apply to all buildings including residential buildings, offices, and warehouses, but for the sake of simplicity, we’ll focus on EPC’s for residential buildings.
Do I Need an EPC to Build or Own in Greece?
If you’re buying a home in Greece, it’s not your responsibility to get an EPC. The responsibility goes to the owner.
The certificate is necessary in order to sell or rent out a building that is more than 50 square meters.
Estate Agents in Greece are also obliged to list the energy efficiency class of a property on sale or rental advertisements.
If you are considering purchasing or selling a property that is still under construction, EPC’s are typically issued upon completion of the project. The same applies if you are renovating a portion of your home.
How Did Energy Performance Certificates Start?
As part of a wider European initiative to increase “energy awareness”, the Ministry of Environment and Energy introduced this system to give property seekers visibility into the energy class of the building.
For modern homes built or remodeled recently, it gives buyers an idea of how much energy they may spend in their new home.
For older homes (bring to mind idyllic village settings, where not much has changed in decades), EPC’s help both buyers and sellers know if they need to make updates on insulation to improve efficiency.
These are important factors for owners to keep in mind, as energy consumption in Greece is higher than other European countries. In fact, buildings in Greece are responsible for approximately 36% of the entire country’s energy consumption.
How do I Benefit?
Besides being a requirement that sellers need to include in their rental agreement, there are perks to knowing your energy rating! Knowing the amount of energy you use can be helpful in calculating costs, especially as a prospective buyer. The rating should be taken into account in your rental or purchase decision.
How does the Rating System Work?
It presents the energy rating of the building on a scale of A to H. In Greece, the letters will be in Greek as in the chart below (A+, A, B+, B, Γ, Δ, Ε, Ζ, Η). A+ is the highest possible rating.
Without going into too many details, the score is determined by comparing a building’s energy use compared to a building with “ideal characterics” – in other words, a building with near perfect energy efficiency.
An EPC is calculated from a number of factors, like the construction materials, the type of boiler, insulation, and heating systems. Once an EPC is issued, it lasts for a period of ten years.
Which Category am I Likely In?
Levels A+, A, B+, B
These are mainly for modern buildings constructed after 2012. If you’re exploring newly built vacation homes, you’re likely in this category. These buildings have good thermal insulation, airtight windows, and modern heating or cooling systems.
While a high Energy Performance Rating may not have a significant effect on a building’s market value, a high-level rating will definitely make it more attractive. It also reflects positively on the owner because only 3% of homes in Greece have a rating of B+ or higher.
If you’re a real overachiever, the Ministry of Environment and Energy offers incentives for the installation of Solar and Renewable energy systems. More details are below.
Levels C, D, E
These ratings are usually assigned to houses that have been built between 1980 and 2010. They have some insulation but could use a few upgrades.
Levels F and G
These ratings refers to old constructions that need major updates to be energy efficient. Homes in this category are likely eligible for the ‘Energy Efficiency in Household Buildings’ Programme, headed up by the Ministry of Environment and Energy. The program offers incentives to homeowners (apartments, apartment blocks and houses) that want to start energy-saving renovation work on their property.
Successful applicants receive both grant and loan funding, up to 70% of the cost of renovations. Homes ranks in Levels F and G are eligible for additional bonuses, particularly for updates on window frames, shading systems, and central heating installations.
Read more about the program here.
Do Regulations Change Based on my Location?
No, they are the same in all areas of Greece, whether on the islands or the mainland.
What Actions Must I Take as a Renter or Homeowner?
As a seller, you are obligated to include the EPC in the rental agreement. For the issuance of an EPC, you need to conduct an energy audit, which will calculate the property’s energy rating.
The inspection is done by an specialized engineer from the Energy Inspectors record. The cost depends on the size of the property. After choosing the professional you want to work with, you will provide them a series of documents (listed below), and then will visit the building to inspect the property and issue the certificate.
As a buyer, you have no obligation to organize an energy audit. This task falls on the seller.
What do I Need to Issue an EPC?
To Issue an EPC, you need the following:
- Personal Details (Social Security, Phone number)
- Property Details (Address)
- Property reference number
- Building permits and the reference number
- Floor Plan of the property
- Boiler Maintenance Checklist and AC System
- Communal distribution form or expenditure allocation table per apartment
You’re officially ready to take full advantage of your EPC! For additional questions or a consultation please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at contact@elxis.com.
