Are you planning to sell your home? If so, you’re required to obtain an energy label. This label provides insight into how energy-efficient your home is, both for you and potential buyers. In today’s world, where sustainability is increasingly important, a poor energy label could result in higher utility costs and potentially less interest from buyers. It’s therefore essential to understand your home’s energy label and explore ways to improve it to make your property more appealing.
But what exactly is a preliminary energy label? How does it differ from a definitive label? And what rules have been in place since January 1, 2021? In this blog, we’ll provide all the information you need.
What Is an Energy Label?
An energy label indicates how energy-efficient your home is. This is expressed in letters, where energy label A++++ represents a highly energy-efficient home, and label G indicates very low energy efficiency. When selling your home, having an energy label is mandatory.
A green energy label can positively impact both the sale price and the speed at which your property sells.
What Is a Preliminary Energy Label?
In 2015, every home in the Netherlands was issued a preliminary energy label by the government. This label is based on data from the Land Registry, such as the construction year, size, and type of property. Want to know what energy label your home has? You can look it up for free at energielabel.nl.
What Is a Definitive Energy Label?
A preliminary energy label is only an estimate and doesn’t always account for energy-saving measures you may have implemented. To provide an accurate view of your home’s energy efficiency, it has been mandatory since 2015 to obtain a definitive energy label when selling your property.
When determining a definitive energy label, additional factors are considered alongside the data from the Land Registry, such as:
Double or single glazing in living areas
Wall, floor, and roof insulation
Heating system
Ventilation system
Solar panels
Improving your home in these areas can result in a greener energy label, making your property more attractive to potential buyers. In some cases, subsidies are available for these upgrades.
Applying for a Definitive Energy Label
Since the government doesn’t have complete information about your home, you’ll need to hire an energy advisor to issue a definitive energy label. The advisor will visit your home to assess its energy efficiency and compile a detailed report.
Hiring an energy advisor involves costs. On average, these range between €200 and €300, depending on your home and specific requirements. Because advisors set their own rates, it’s advisable to request quotes from multiple providers.
Energy Label Before January 1, 2021
The cost of hiring an energy advisor may seem high, and that’s understandable, as these costs have significantly increased since January 1, 2021. Previously, you could apply for a definitive energy label online and only pay processing fees, which usually amounted to a few tens of euros.
If you started an application before January 1, 2021, you have until April 1, 2021, to complete it at the lower cost.
An energy label is valid for 10 years. If you already have a definitive label issued before January 1, 2021, it will remain valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.
Conclusion
Understanding your home’s energy label is crucial, especially if you’re considering selling. A green energy label can increase the sale price and shorten the time your property spends on the market. By applying for a definitive energy label in a timely manner and making necessary energy-efficient upgrades, you’ll be better positioned to attract buyers.
Do you have questions about energy labels or want to know how to make your home more energy-efficient? Contact an energy advisor or visit energielabel.nl for more information.