Brussels in 2030: Up to €100,000 Fine and Prison Sentences for Missing EPB Certificate?

In Brussels, it is currently mandatory to have an EPB certificate (Energy Performance and Indoor Climate) for all properties being rented or sold. This regulation is designed to ensure the energy performance of buildings and encourage owners to make their properties more sustainable. By 2030, this requirement will be extended, and every property in the region will need to have an EPB certificate. Owners who fail to comply may face heavy penalties, including fines of up to €100,000 and even prison sentences.

Is the EPB Certificate Reliable?

However, the current situation surrounding the EPB certificate raises questions about its reliability. Many people are critical of the system, and there is growing concern about the quality of the certificates. The reliability of the score heavily depends on the expertise and integrity of the certifier, leading to a lack of consistency in the results. Furthermore, research shows that errors frequently occur in the calculation of energy performance. This has led to a situation where the potential for fraud is significant. The inspection of these certificates leaves much to be desired; less than 1% of the EPB certificates issued in Brussels and Wallonia in 2022 and 2023 were inspected, which, according to l’Echo, is an alarmingly low standard.

Improvements in Sight

Fortunately, there are also signs of improvement. Policymakers promise stricter controls and a more uniform system, which should increase the reliability of the EPB certificate. However, this may mean that future EPB certificates will be stricter and potentially less favorable for owners than the current versions. The central question arising from this is whether Brussels will be able to fulfill these promises and create a system that is both fair and reliable.

If these improvements are realized, they could not only contribute to better energy management but also lead to a more sustainable future for the city. It is therefore crucial for all property owners to stay well-informed about these changes and prepare for the potential consequences of this new regulation.