A guide to the Energy Performance Certificate in Spain
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), known as "Certificado de Eficiencia Energética" in Spanish, is mandatory for property owners in Spain who wish to sell or rent their property. This document provides information about the property's energy efficiency, rating it from A (very efficient) to G (not very efficient). Additionally, it offers recommendations for improving the property's energy efficiency and its impact on energy consumption.
Obtaining an energy certificate involves several steps:
1. Choose an authorized technician: Property owners must select a qualified professional, such as an architect, engineer, or authorized technician, to conduct the energy assessment of the property.
2. Gather the necessary documentation: Before the technician's visit, ensure that you have all the relevant property documentation, including floor plans and technical specifications.
3. Schedule the technician's visit: The technician will conduct an on-site visit to collect information about the property's energy characteristics, including windows, ventilation, heating, air conditioning, and hot water systems.
4. Follow the process: During the visit, discuss potential energy efficiency improvements with the technician.
5. Obtain the certificate: The technician will calculate the energy rating and issue the Energy Performance Certificate. This certificate must be registered with the competent authority in the corresponding autonomous community to be valid.
The cost of an energy certificate varies based on location, property type, and other factors.
It is mandatory to have an energy certificate when selling, buying, or renting a property in Spain, including regular homes, second homes, and commercial properties. It is also required for buildings with a total useful floor area exceeding 500 m2 and intended for various purposes, such as schools or offices. The certificate is valid for ten years, except if the energy rating is G, in which case the validity is reduced to five years. An existing certificate can be renewed if a better energy rating can be achieved after renovations.
Source: Summary made from an Idealista article
