Energy audit
A detailed energy assessment, more comprehensive than the DPE, mandatory since April 2023 when selling F- or G-rated individual houses or single-owner buildings. It proposes phased renovation scenarios and their expected impact on the energy rating. It shapes the financing plan by directing borrowers toward eco-PTZ or MaPrimeRénov' subsidies.
Key points
- Mandatory since April 2023 for selling F or G individual houses and single-owner buildings.
- More comprehensive than the DPE: it proposes phased work pathways.
- Each scenario states the expected energy gain and estimated works cost.
- Guides the financing plan toward eco-PTZ or MaPrimeRénov' subsidies.
Frequently asked questions
How does an energy audit differ in practice from a DPE?
The DPE only measures the current performance of the property and expresses it as energy and climate labels. The energy audit goes further: it analyses the causes of energy loss, proposes at least two progressive renovation scenarios with cost estimates, expected energy gains, and eligible subsidies. It must be carried out by RGE-certified or qualified professionals.
Is an energy audit mandatory for flats in co-ownership buildings?
No, at the time of writing the energy audit obligation at sale applies only to individual houses and single-owner buildings rated F or G. Flats in co-ownership buildings fall under a separate mechanism, the Multi-Year Works Plan (PPT), which applies to the whole building.
How does an energy audit influence sale price negotiation?
The audit quantifies the works needed to improve the property's energy rating. The buyer can use these estimates to negotiate a price reduction corresponding to the cost of required works. Some sellers anticipate this by carrying out works before listing in order to sell at the full renovated value.
In practice
A seller lists a Class F house in Brittany. The energy audit prescribes two scenarios: a first at €18,000 to reach Class D, a second at €35,000 to target Class B. The buyer uses this to request a price reduction.
Official sources
- The energy performance diagnostic (DPE) · Service-Public.gouv.fr
- Sale agreement and loan condition precedent · Service-Public.gouv.fr
- Housing and financing information · ANIL