The energy performance certificate is that document with a coloured label —like the one on appliances— indicating how much energy a home consumes. Beyond the formality, it says a lot about what you will pay for electricity and gas, and about the renovations you may need.
What the energy certificate is
The energy performance certificate (EPC / CEE) assesses the energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a home under normal use. A qualified technician issues it after visiting the property and it is officially registered (in Catalonia, with the ICAEN). The result is a label from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
What each letter (A–G) means
| Letter | Efficiency | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| A / B | Very high | Low consumption and emissions. Efficient new build or refurbished. |
| C / D | Medium | Reasonable consumption; the most common in homes in good condition. |
| E / F | Low | High consumption; typical of old buildings without insulation. |
| G | Very low | The highest consumption and emissions. Clear room for improvement. |
Barcelona's old housing stock (Eixample, Ciutat Vella, Gràcia) tends towards E, F and G ratings: buildings without thermal insulation, predating modern regulations. It is not a hidden defect, but it anticipates higher bills and improvement potential through renovation.
Is it mandatory?
Yes. The certificate is mandatory to sell or rent a home, and the label must appear in listings. Whoever sells or rents must have it and hand it over. Not having it can lead to penalties.
How much it costs and how long it lasts
- Cost: a technician issues it; usually around €60–150 for an average home, plus the registration fee.
- Validity: 10 years as a general rule (class G has a shorter validity, 5 years). It must be renewed when it expires.
How it affects your purchase
- Bills: an E/F/G anticipates higher heating/cooling spend; factor it into the cost of living there.
- Renovation and subsidies: improving efficiency (insulation, windows, heating) may grant access to income-tax deductions and grants, and increases the property value.
- Negotiation: a poor rating, combined with the need to renovate, is a price argument.
Old building? Analyze its context, free
The analyzer gives you the year of the building (a good indicator of expected efficiency), the ITE, era-based risks and area price. To understand which flat you are looking at before requesting the certificate.
Analyze my flat →Frequently asked questions
Is the energy certificate mandatory?
Yes, to sell or rent a home, and the label must appear in listings.
How long does the energy certificate last?
10 years in general; class G has a validity of 5 years. It must be renewed afterwards.
Is a G rating a serious problem?
It is not a hidden defect: it is common in old buildings without insulation. It implies higher energy spending and improvement room through renovation (with possible grants).
Who pays for the certificate?
Whoever sells or rents, who must have it. Indicative cost: €60–150 plus fee.
Editorial notice. Informational guide (2026). Validity periods, fees and deductions may vary. Listing Barcelona is an editorial and independent platform.