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Nieuws | Possible relaxation of the renovation obligation: what does it mean?

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Possible relaxation of the renovation obligation: what does it mean?

Possible relaxation of the renovation obligation: what does it mean?

 

The Flemish government is considering a relaxation of the renovation obligation, a rule that has been linked to the energy performance certificate score (EPC) since last year. This score indicates how energy-efficient a house is, and currently buyers of houses with an energy performance label E or F are obliged to renovate their house to label D within five years. Over time, these requirements will become increasingly stringent: by 2050, every home must achieve label A. The renovation obligation is part of the Flemish climate objectives and aims to improve the energy performance of the real estate market. 

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Impact of the relaxation on sales and energy efficiency

 

The proposed relaxation means that homes with fossil-free heating could meet label C, entailing lower renovation costs for sellers. According to energy specialist Ruben Baetens of the Institute for Energy & Society at KU Leuven, a house can even achieve label C just by installing solar panels and a heat pump, with no insulation required. This may seem advantageous for owners who want to sell their homes, as these houses would have to meet fewer renovation obligations, increasing their value. However, the relaxation also carries risks: homes may appear more energy efficient on paper, while in reality they continue to generate high heating costs due to lack of insulation. 

Criticism of the EPC score: is one figure enough?

 

The EPC score, intended to reflect the energy efficiency of a home, is facing increasing criticism within the industry. According to Baetens, the calculation of a single figure - which includes insulation, heating and renewable energy - brings too general a picture. Ideally, the score should be divided into specific indicators for insulation, heating, and renewable energy, as is already the case for new buildings. In this way, energy-efficient building can be encouraged in a more targeted way. Critics say the proposed relaxation, whereby a house without insulation can still be considered energy efficient, goes against the original intention of the renovation obligation. 

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