What landlords and tenants need to know about the energy certificate

High Class A property means that the tenant will have lower PPC bills

Old properties are undoubtedly the "big losers" from the application of the energy certificate to apartment rentals, which applies from today. On the contrary, more points are gained by newly built and renovated properties. This is because tenants will know whether the house they want to rent has the right windows, whether it is energy-intensive and whether proper work has been done to shield it in winter and summer. So a high A-rated property means that the tenant will have lower utility bills as they will use less energy for heating and cooling.
But to take things from the beginning, it should be mentioned that energy certificates are already in force for certain categories of properties and for purchase and sale transactions, but as of today their issuance is mandatory along with every apartment rental contract. In particular, tax offices will not accept new rental contracts if the corresponding certificate is not also present.

Through a series of questions and answers, 24h.gr solves all questions regarding energy certificates.

What does the certificate describe?
The Energy Performance Certificate includes, among other things, the results of the energy inspector's assessment and recommendations for improving the energy efficiency of the building, so that consumers are able to compare and evaluate their actual consumption and any potential for improving energy efficiency.

Is it compulsory?
Yes. As of today for all rental properties that are over 50 square meters.

Which cases are excluded?

• New leases of buildings (residential-apartment) with a total surface area of less than 50 sq.m.
• Extensions of old leases with the same tenant. Amendments to the terms of existing leases (e.g. reductions in rent paid).
• Leases of all types of land (plots and parcels) without buildings. Leases of buildings or parts of buildings or structures housing industries, crafts, workshops, workshops, manufacturing plants, services with substantial electromechanical equipment. This category includes, inter alia, factories, industrial plants, car maintenance and repair workshops, carpenter's workshops, carpenter's workshops, carpentry workshops, food preparation plants, laundries, dry-cleaning shops, ironing shops, organised laundries, self-contained computer centres, research and training laboratories, refineries and power stations.
• Renting of buildings or parts of buildings or structures used for the storage of goods, the keeping of objects or the housing of animals. This category includes, inter alia, general warehouses, agricultural warehouses, harbour sheds, warehouses for shops (but also for housing), museum warehouses, stables, buffaloes, pigsties, poultry houses, etc.
• Renting of buildings or parts of buildings or structures for the parking of cars, two- or three-wheeled vehicles, petrol stations and car washes.

How much does it cost?
The cost varies depending on the type of property. For apartments it is 2 euros per square metre, with a minimum fee of 150 euros. If all owners agree and obtain an energy certificate for all apartments, the cost is 1 euro per square metre.

What do energy inspectors look at?
The fuel that the house needs to be heated in winter. If it has gas, it gets a better score than if the boiler is oil-fired or there are radiators that run on electricity. A solar water heater gives extra points. As do new windows. Also considered are the solar energy absorption coefficient of the walls, the colour the building is painted and a number of other planning issues.

Where can I find an energy inspector?
Not all engineers have the right to sign and issue an energy certificate. Energy inspectors exist on the basis of the Ministry of Environment and have a special identity card. Citizens can locate inspectors in the Register of Energy Inspectors, which is posted on the main website of the Ministry of Environment www.ypeka.gr and in the field "Inspection / Energy Inspection / Register of Energy Inspectors", in the Banks, participating in the "Energy Savings at Home" Program, and in the local Citizen Service Centers (KEP).