Is the EPC certificate mandatory for rental in Belgium? Rules per region.
Yes, the EPC certificate is mandatory for every letting of a dwelling in Belgium. This obligation has existed since 2011 in all three regions and applies to all types of residential leases.
The landlord must hold a valid EPC certificate before publishing the rental listing. The score must appear in the listing (press, internet, agency window) and the full certificate must be annexed to the lease.
| Region | Legal basis |
|---|---|
| Brussels | COBRACE ordinance of 2 May 2013 |
| Wallonia | Decree of 28 November 2013 (energy performance) |
| Flanders | Energiebesluit of 19 November 2010 |
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Score / label | Letter from A (excellent) to G (poor) |
| Estimated consumption | In kWh/sqm per year |
| CO2 emissions | In kg CO2/sqm per year |
| Recommendations | Suggested improvement works |
| Validity | Expiry date (10 years) |
The certificate is issued by a certified assessor approved by the regional authority. The cost ranges from EUR 150 to 400 depending on property size and complexity.
| Region | Fine (no EPC) | Fine (EPC not displayed in listing) |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | EUR 500 - 25,000 | EUR 250 - 25,000 |
| Wallonia | EUR 250 - 25,000 | EUR 250 - 25,000 |
| Flanders | EUR 500 - 5,000 | EUR 500 - 5,000 |
Beyond fines, the absence of an EPC can have indirect consequences:
Regions are intensifying inspections, notably by cross-referencing online listings with EPC databases. Publishing a listing without an EPC score is easily detectable and sanctioned.
1. Order the certificate. Find a certified assessor on your region’s portal. Allow 2 to 4 weeks between ordering and receiving the certificate.
2. Facilitate the audit. The assessor needs access to all rooms, including the loft. Prepare available technical documents (plans, insulation sheets, heating documentation).
3. Include the score in the listing. The EPC score and consumption in kWh/sqm per year must appear in every listing.
4. Annex to the lease. A copy of the certificate must be attached to the lease upon signing.
5. Store and track. Archive the certificate and note the expiry date. A rental management software alerts you automatically before expiry.
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