Did you know that you could face fines of up to €6,000 if you sell or rent your property without an Energy Performance Certificate? In addition, having a good energy rating can increase the value of your property by up to 10%. In this article we explain what this mandatory document is, how to obtain it and the advantages it offers beyond complying with the regulations and avoiding possible penalties.

We will also clarify the difference between the energy label and the energy certificate, because although many people confuse them, they are not the same.

What is the Energy Efficiency Certificate (EEC)?

The Energy Efficiency Certificate (EEC) is an official document that evaluates the energy performance of a home or property. Since 2013, it is mandatory to present this certificate in any purchase or rental transaction.

This document is not only a legal requirement, but also allows you to know the real energy consumption of your property and how to improve its efficiency. The CEE is issued by an authorised technician, who assigns an energy rating to the property, ranging from A to G, depending on its energy efficiency. In addition, the CO₂ emissions of the property are also indicated.

Energy efficiency has become increasingly important in Europe in recent years, and Spain is no exception. According to the most recent data, more than 80% of dwellings in the country do not meet European energy efficiency standards. Around 83.81% of rented dwellings, with energy labels type E, F or G, should improve their rating to meet European targets.

Since 2013, all buildings must have this certificate, which includes information on the energy rating, estimated energy consumption and recommendations for improving efficiency. This certificate is valid for 10 years.

How to obtain the Energy Efficiency Certificate?

In order to obtain the CEE, a competent technician (architect, technical architect or engineer) must carry out a study of the home and issue the document. During the technical visit, the professional will analyse aspects such as:

  • Wall and window insulation
  • Heating and cooling systems
  • Orientation of the dwelling
  • Hot water installations
  • Ventilation
  • Energy sources used

Once the analysis has been completed, the technician will register the certificate with the corresponding body in the autonomous community. You will then receive the official document, which is valid for 10 years.

How much does it cost to obtain the EWC?

The cost varies according to the size of the dwelling and the region, but generally falls within the following ranges:

  • Flats: between 100 and 200 euros
  • Single-family houses: between 200 and 400 euros
  • Commercial premises: from 250 euros

What information does the Energy Performance Certificate include?

The EWC includes the following information:

  • Details of the property and the certifying technician
  • Energy rating (letters A, B, C, D, E, F or G and numerical value)
  • Energy performance of the building
  • Recommendations for improving energy efficiency
  • Tests and checks carried out
  • Date of issue and validity

Since 2013, it has been compulsory to present this certificate for any purchase or rental transaction. It is also required when placing advertisements, when making purchase or rental contracts, and in public buildings of more than 250 m².

Benefits of having EWC and what happens if you don't have it

Beyond avoiding penalties, having the Energy Performance Certificate offers several advantages:

  • Economic savingsEnergy efficiency: By understanding energy efficiency, you can optimise consumption and reduce energy bills.
  • Added valueA good energy rating can increase the value of your property by up to 10%, or even more if you take advantage of recommendations to improve efficiency.
  • Environmental awarenessYou contribute to sustainability and reduce your carbon footprint.
  • Planning improvementsThe certificate includes recommendations for improving the energy efficiency of the dwelling.

What happens if you don't get the Energy Efficiency Certificate?

If you do not have an EWC, the penalties can be quite serious. Fines can range from €600 to €6,000. In addition, you will not be able to register rental or sales contracts and you may face claims from buyers or tenants, which creates legal complications.

Difference between energy label and energy certificate

It is important to clarify that an Energy Performance Certificate and an energy label are not the same thing. Although many people confuse them, they are two different things:

  • Energy labelEnergy rating: This is the visual label that shows the energy rating of the property (from A to G) and must be included in any advertisement for sale or rent.
  • Energy certificateThe detailed technical report that includes an exhaustive analysis of the dwelling, its energy characteristics and recommendations to improve its efficiency.

Remember that buying a home is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Investing in energy efficiency is an excellent way to increase the value of your property, up to 10%, and it is also a legal obligation. Don't miss this opportunity to improve your home and avoid penalties!