In recent years, energy efficiency has become a very important issue in all areas of society. Concern for reducing energy consumption –and minimizing environmental impact– has also found a place in the furniture sector through the implementation of different measures. One of them is the energy certificate, mandatory to sell a home.
But what exactly is the energy certificate? Below, the experts from the comprehensive real estate services platform Housfy explain why it is so important and how you can improve it before selling.
When we talk about an energy certificate, we are referring to the official document that evaluates and qualifies the energy efficiency of a habitable home. It is a detailed analysis of the characteristics of a home related to energy consumption. Therefore, thermal insulation, the quality of windows and doors, air conditioning systems and lighting are included, among others.
From this analysis, an energy rating is assigned to the home. This rating is expressed on a scale that goes from the letter A, which indicates high energy efficiency, to the letter G, which indicates low efficiency. The letter A corresponds to the most efficient and sustainable homes, while the letter G is assigned to the least efficient.
Obtaining this document can be somewhat confusing, although it is only necessary to contact a company, architect or engineer authorized to do so. Once the visit to the home is scheduled, the technician prepares the energy efficiency report.
The main objective of the energy certificate is to inform owners and buyers about the energy consumption of a home, as well as its environmental impact.
This document not only provides information on the energy efficiency of your home, but also offers tips to improve it and obtain significant savings in the long term. They range from simple actions, such as using more efficient light bulbs, to more significant measures, such as improving insulation or installing renewable energy systems.
With this information, the certificate becomes, in essence, a document “essential to make informed decisions regarding the purchase, rental or improvement of a home”, say the Housfy experts.
Since 2013, Spain is one of the countries where it is mandatory to have an energy certificate to sell or rent a home. This implies that, when advertising a home, it is necessary to display its energy efficiency label in the ad. In addition, the seller is responsible for providing a copy of the certificate to the buyer or tenant.
Having an up-to-date and well-qualified energy certificate is essential for any owner looking to sell their home. To begin with, because it allows buyers to compare the energy efficiency of different homes and choose more consciously.
A favorable energy certificate can also have a direct impact on the valuation of a home. A property with a high energy rating, that is, more efficient, is usually more attractive to buyers, since it implies lower energy costs and translates into savings on monthly bills.
In addition, the certificate is an indicator of the quality of the property. A home with a good energy rating conveys the image of a well-maintained, modern place that is committed to the environment. This can build trust with potential buyers and make the sales process easier.
There is always the possibility of improving the energy efficiency of your home and obtaining a more favorable certificate before the sale of your home. To do this, the experts from the comprehensive real estate services platform Housfy present us with some key actions.
First of all, consider the importance of thermal insulation. After all, good insulation is like a protective layer for your home, keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer. Consider improving the insulation of ceilings, walls and windows to reduce heat losses and make your home more efficient.
Lighting also plays a crucial role in energy efficiency. Why not replace old light bulbs with energy efficient LED lights? Not only will you save energy, but you’ll also be able to enhance your home’s appeal with more modern lighting.
Another aspect to consider is the appliances. If your appliances have been used for several years, they may be consuming more energy than necessary. Invest in appliances that consume less energy.
Finally, photovoltaic panels. They are presented as an efficient solution to improve energy efficiency thanks to their use of solar energy, and reduce dependence on more polluting sources.
By improving the energy efficiency of your home before selling it, you are creating a more comfortable home. Thus, you reduce your energy costs in the long term, and also demonstrate your commitment to a more sustainable lifestyle.
For this reason, and to promote these modifications, the European Union and the Government of Spain offer a series of personal income tax rebates for those who make them. The deadline is June 30, 2026.
As they explain from the comprehensive home platform Housfy, there are three actions that can be financed by the State: the reduction of energy demand by at least 7%; the reduction of non-renewable primary energy consumption by at least 30%; and carrying out energy rehabilitation works with a reduction of at least 30%.
