In Belgium

The EPC (Energy Performance Certificate, known as PEB/EPC in Belgium) rates a dwelling’s energy efficiency on a scale from A (very efficient) to G (energy-intensive). It is mandatory whenever a property is sold, rented, or listed for sale or rent.

Each Region has its own rules regarding the EPC:

  • Brussels: the EPC is issued by a certified assessor. Properties rated E, F or G face rent indexation restrictions.
  • Flanders: the EPC is mandatory and minimum energy standards are being progressively introduced for rental properties (minimum label E from 2025, D from 2028, C from 2035).
  • Wallonia: the EPC is mandatory for advertising and signing leases. No indexation restrictions linked to EPC yet.

How it works

Assessment. A certified energy assessor visits the property and evaluates: insulation (walls, roof, floor, windows), heating system, ventilation, renewable energy installations. The assessment takes 1-3 hours.

Validity. The certificate is valid for 10 years. A new certificate must be obtained after major energy renovation works.

Advertising. The EPC label and score must be mentioned in all property advertisements (online, print, agency window).

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Good to know
In Brussels, landlords of properties rated F or G cannot apply annual rent indexation. This creates a direct financial incentive for energy renovation — a property upgraded from G to D recovers the right to indexation, potentially worth hundreds of euros per year.

Practical example

Marc rents an apartment in Brussels rated F on the EPC. His rent is 850 EUR/month but he cannot apply the annual indexation (worth approximately 30 EUR/month after 3 years). He invests 15,000 EUR in roof insulation and window replacement. The new EPC rates the property D. He recovers the right to indexation, gaining approximately 360 EUR/year in indexed rent increases.

Key considerations

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Warning
Renting a property without a valid EPC is an offence in all three Regions. Fines range from 250 to 5,000 EUR depending on the Region. The EPC must be available before the first viewing, not just at lease signing.