EPC Certificate Mandatory for All Homes in Brussels by 2025

Starting in 2025, Brussels will introduce a significant change regarding the energy performance of residential properties. Until now, the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) was only required for homes that were being sold or rented. However, under new regulations, every property, including apartments in co-ownership, will need to have an EPC certificate by 2025, even if no real estate transaction is taking place. This new rule marks a key step in the region’s energy transition.

What Will Change in 2025?

By 2025, all homes in Brussels will be required to have an EPC, even if the property is not being bought or rented. This means that every household will need to have an official certificate showing its energy performance. Currently, very few homes boast a strong energy rating, with the majority of buildings in Brussels scoring between D and G. Moreover, it is estimated that only 30% of homes are adequately insulated, making energy efficiency improvements an urgent priority.

EPC Certificate Objectives

Up until now, the EPC certificate only served an informational purpose, showing the energy consumption of a property to prospective buyers or tenants. However, the Brussels government has set ambitious goals for the future. By 2050, the region aims for all homes to reach at least a C rating on their EPC. This will require approximately 600,000 homes to undergo significant energy efficiency renovations to meet the target.

Key Renovations Needed to Improve the EPC Rating

In order to improve the energy performance of homes, a list of five priority renovations has been established. These works are essential for reducing energy consumption and making homes more sustainable:

1. Floor insulation
2. Roof insulation
3. Wall insulation (both exterior and interior)
4. Installation of solar panels
5. Replacement of windows and boilers

The goal is to complete all five of these works by 2050, with the requirement to undertake at least one renovation every five years starting in 2030. This will ensure that the Brussels housing stock becomes more energy-efficient and future-proof over time.

The Benefits of Grouping Renovations

It’s important to note that undertaking all five of these energy improvements at once is often more cost-effective and efficient. By addressing all the necessary renovations in one go, you can lower the overall renovation costs and start benefiting from energy savings more quickly. Moreover, organizing the work in a single project simplifies logistics and planning.

Conclusion

By 2025, the EPC certificate will become a mandatory requirement for all homes in Brussels, and the region has set ambitious plans to improve the energy performance of properties by 2050. Renovations such as insulation and the installation of solar panels will be essential in meeting these goals. Homeowners should begin preparing for these changes by taking the necessary steps to make their homes more energy-efficient and comply with future regulations.