Embarking on an energy renovation project requires understanding various assessments, notably the energy performance diagnosis (DPE), which is legally mandated for property sales or rentals. It evaluates energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, impacting future energy costs and rental eligibility. While the DPE is essential, homeowners may also benefit from optional energy audits and thermal assessments, which offer deeper insights into energy efficiency and specific improvement recommendations. These assessments help owners identify issues and enhance their property’s energy performance.
Understanding Your Energy Renovation Project
If you’re embarking on an energy renovation project aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and thermal comfort in your home, you’ve likely come across the term “energy performance diagnosis” (DPE). However, it’s important to note that the DPE isn’t the only assessment required when considering renovations for your house or apartment. There are other diagnostic options available that may be more suitable for your specific needs.
The Importance of Energy Performance Diagnosis (DPE)
Primarily, the DPE is a legal requirement during the sale or rental of a property, with a few exceptions outlined in the Construction and Housing Code. This diagnosis is part of the essential real estate diagnostics and is derived from comprehensive analyses of the property combined with data provided by the previous occupant. The DPE evaluates the annual energy consumption of the dwelling, assigning it an energy label that ranges from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient). Additionally, it assesses greenhouse gas emissions, offering a climate label that follows the same ranking system.
The DPE serves a crucial role for prospective buyers or tenants, as it helps them anticipate their future energy expenses, understand the existing equipment, and receive recommendations for potential energy improvement measures. Properties that receive a G classification are deemed thermal sieves and cannot be rented out. This restriction is set to extend to properties rated F in 2028 and E in 2034. The overarching aim is to prevent the rental of substandard housing, ensuring tenant well-being and motivating property owners to undertake renovations that will lower the carbon footprint of the building sector.
It’s worth noting that certain financial assistance programs for energy renovations require a prior DPE. This includes initiatives like Ma Prime Rénov. The responsibility for obtaining the DPE lies with the property owner, and while the process is regulated by the Agency for the Environment and Energy Management (ADEME), prices can vary. It’s advisable to gather multiple quotes to find the best deal and ensure that the diagnostician is ADEME-accredited, as the DPE remains valid for a decade.
The Benefits of an Energy Audit
While the DPE is mandatory, the energy audit is an optional but often more insightful assessment for homeowners looking to enhance energy performance. This comprehensive audit delves deeper into the specifics of the property, analyzing thermal insulation, existing windows, and all heating, hot water, ventilation, air conditioning, and lighting systems. By closely reviewing the energy bills from the past three years, the auditor can calculate the annual primary energy consumption accurately.
The professional conducting the audit will compile a detailed report that includes a prioritized list of recommended improvements along with estimated costs, in accordance with the regulations established in February 2013.
Utilizing a Thermal Assessment
The thermal assessment is another optional diagnosis that can be beneficial. Conducted by a certified thermal engineer or a thermal study office, this assessment helps property owners evaluate thermal exchanges within their homes. During winter, it focuses on heat loss, while in summer, it examines how heat enters through vulnerable areas of the property.
This precise evaluation identifies issues such as air leaks, thermal bridges (areas lacking insulation that facilitate heat transfer), and energy-consuming appliances that may need replacing. Ultimately, the thermal assessment provides targeted recommendations for energy renovation work and guidance on selecting more efficient equipment.