The visit of the EPC certifier
What documents are required to improve the EPC certificate?
An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a document that measures the energy efficiency of a house or apartment. It assigns a rating from A (very energy efficient) to G (very energy inefficient), allowing prospective buyers or tenants to better understand how much energy the property consumes. In addition to this rating, the EPC often provides advice on how to make the property more energy efficient and reduce its environmental impact.
EPC certification process: Inspection and certificate issuance
During the visit, the certifier collects all the data needed to produce the PEB certificate using the certification software provided by Brussels Environment.
A visit will last at least 1 hour, depending on the size and complexity of the property. The duration of the visit will also depend on the quality of the acceptable evidence presented to the certifier. The higher the quality of the acceptable evidence, the easier and therefore shorter the certifier's visit will be.
The EPC energy score is determined based on the construction materials, insulation values of the roof, walls, windows, doors, and heating, cooling, and domestic hot water systems. When inspecting gas installations, we check:
- The general condition of the dwelling
- The structure of the building: floors, exterior walls, windows, roof, etc. - Heating systems
- Domestic hot water systems
In the absence of plans, measurements will be taken for walls, doors, windows, and floor surfaces. Once the PEB certificate has been produced, it will be given to the owner or their representative by the certifier.
A EPC unit designated for “individual housing” must meet the following four cumulative conditions:
1. Have a usable area (i.e. a “carpet” area) which is at least equal to 18m2;
2. Have at least one private toilet (= for the sole use of the occupants of the accommodation) or at least one connection point to the wastewater evacuation pipes and a cold water supply, in a room reserved for this use, or in a toilet, shower room or bathroom;
3. Have a private bathroom/shower or at least a connection to the sewage system and a cold water supply;
4. Have a clean, private space for preparing meals (kitchen or kitchenette), equipped with a sink and cooking facilities, i.e. at least a connection to the wastewater drainage system, a cold water supply, and electrical outlets for connecting appliances or a gas supply.
A dwelling offered for sale or rent generally meets the legal definition of “individual dwelling.” However, a dwelling that does not meet one or more of the conditions listed does not fall under the “individual dwelling” category and is therefore not covered by the scope of application.
What information does your certifier need to issue an EPC certificate?
The certifier must visit your home to collect all the information necessary to assess its energy performance.
Certain technical characteristics, such as boiler efficiency, the type and thickness of insulation in walls, floors, ceilings, or roofs, and the performance of window frames, cannot always be observed visually. It is therefore essential that you provide the certifier with documentation attesting to these elements no later than the date of their visit. Any elements submitted to the certifier at a later date will result in the file being reopened and additional costs.
We emphasize that the EPC report will only be delivered after payment for the assignment has been made.
Do you live in an apartment in a condominium building?
In this case, access to the boiler room must be requested from the property manager for the certifier and to provide you with documents relating to common facilities or work carried out by the co-ownership, such as the basic deed, renovation invoices, and logbook. If these documents are available on a shared storage platform, all co-owners wishing to sell or rent their apartment will also be able to access them.
