EPC Certificate Mandatory in 2025 for Brussels Properties

In 2025, the regulations regarding the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for buildings in Brussels will change. Until now, the EPC was required only for properties that were being sold or rented. However, starting in 2025, every home in Brussels, including those in co-ownership, will need to have a valid EPC certificate, even if no real estate transaction is taking place. This marks a significant shift for the sustainability of Brussels’ property market.

What is the EPC Certificate and Why is It Important?

The EPC certificate provides information about a property's energy efficiency. Currently, it serves mostly as an informational tool, but the Brussels-Capital Region has ambitious plans for the future. The goal is to achieve an average rating of C for Brussels properties by 2050. Currently, most homes in Brussels have ratings between D and G, and about 30% of roofs are insulated.

What Improvements Are Needed to Improve the EPC Rating?

The Brussels Region has outlined five priority areas for improving energy efficiency and increasing the EPC rating:

1. Floor Insulation: Proper floor insulation is essential to prevent heat loss from the bottom of the house.
2. Roof Insulation: A poorly insulated roof is a major source of heat loss. This work is crucial for improving a home’s energy performance.
3. Wall Insulation (Interior and Exterior): Insulating both interior and exterior walls helps reduce energy consumption and increases comfort.
4. Installing Solar Panels: Solar panels help reduce energy bills and provide a renewable energy source for the home.
5. Window Replacement: Replacing old windows with energy-efficient models reduces heat loss and enhances the building’s energy rating.
6. Boiler Replacement: Installing a more efficient boiler reduces energy consumption and improves the EPC rating.

How to Make the Most of the New Regulation?

The mandatory EPC certificates starting in 2025 will offer more than just environmental benefits—they also bring economic advantages for homeowners. Completing these upgrades all at once can result in significant savings over time. By tackling all these improvements simultaneously, you reduce the need for multiple renovation projects, saving both time and money. Moreover, the energy savings will be immediately noticeable, as the house becomes much more energy-efficient.

What Are the Obligations for Homeowners?

By 2050, all properties in Brussels will need to achieve an EPC rating of C. The Brussels Region has established a phased approach: by 2030, homeowners will be required to complete one of the five priority improvements every five years. This means that starting in 2025, homeowners will not only need to obtain their EPC certificate, but also create a long-term plan to improve the energy efficiency of their property.

Conclusion

Starting in 2025, the EPC certificate will be mandatory for all properties in Brussels, marking an important step toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient Brussels. Homeowners will need to invest in insulation, solar panels, and other energy-saving improvements to boost their property's EPC rating. By taking a phased approach to these upgrades, homeowners can reduce their costs while increasing the value of their property. It’s wise to start planning the necessary renovations now to ensure compliance with the new regulations in time.