The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a mandatory document that evaluates a property’s energy consumption. For landlords, the obligations are:
- Before listing: have a valid EPC certificate
- In advertisements: mention the EPC score (class A to G)
- During viewings: make the certificate available to prospective tenants
- At signing: attach the certificate to the lease or provide a copy to the tenant
Penalties: fines of €250 to €5,000 depending on the region for absence of an EPC certificate when renting.
| Aspect | Brussels | Wallonia | Flanders |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum score | No (but affects indexation) | No | No (2050 target: label C) |
| Ad mention | Class + kWh/m²/year | Class + kWh/m²/year | Class + kWh/m²/year |
| Max fine | €2,500 | €1,000 | €5,000 |
| Valid for | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years |
| Indexation impact | Yes (E, F, G limited) | No (for now) | No (for now) |
In Brussels: the Brussels Housing Code provides a mandatory renovation calendar. The most energy-hungry properties will need to achieve a minimum score or risk being unable to be rented.
In Brussels, the ordinance of 20 October 2022 limits rent indexation based on the EPC score:
- EPC A, B, C, D: full indexation allowed
- EPC E: indexation limited to 50%
- EPC F: indexation limited to 25%
- EPC G: indexation fully frozen
This measure aims to encourage property owners to renovate their buildings. In Wallonia and Flanders, similar measures are under discussion.
On LeaseBelgium: the platform automatically takes your EPC score into account during indexation calculations and alerts you if your property is subject to restrictions.
- Contact an accredited certifier: list available on your region’s website
- Property visit: the certifier inspects insulation, heating, ventilation, windows
- Score calculation: based on technical characteristics (not actual consumption)
- Certificate issuance: official document with score from A (very efficient) to G (very energy-hungry)
Cost: between €150 and €350 for an apartment, €250 to €600 for a house. This cost is borne by the property owner.
Tip: if you plan renovation works, wait until they are completed before ordering the EPC to benefit from a better score.