What is an EPC certificate? Everything you need to know

An EPC certificate (Energy Performance Certificate) is an official document that assesses the energy efficiency of a home or building in Flanders on a scale from A+ (energy-neutral) to F (very poor performance). It is drawn up by a VEKA-certified energy expert and is legally required when selling or renting out a property.

How does an EPC work?

The EPC measures the calculated energy consumption of a building, expressed in kWh/m² per year. A certified type A energy expert visits the property for an inspection lasting on average 1 to 2 hours. During this visit, all energy-relevant elements of the home are examined:

• Building envelope: insulation of walls, roof, floor and windows
• Heating system: type of boiler, efficiency, age
• Domestic hot water: production system and storage
• Ventilation: type A, B, C or D
• Renewable energy: solar panels, solar boiler, heat pump

EPC labels explained

After the inspection, the VEKA certification software calculates the energy score and assigns a label:

Label	kWh/m²/year	Description
A+	≤ 0	Energy-neutral
A	1 – 100	Very energy-efficient
B	101 – 200	Well insulated
C	201 – 300	Average Flemish home
D	301 – 400	Below average
E	401 – 500	Poor performance
F	≥ 501	Very poor performance

In our experience, the majority of existing Flemish homes fall within label C to E. A home with label A or B has typically already undergone significant renovations.

Why is the EPC important?

The EPC is more than an administrative obligation. It gives potential buyers or tenants an objective picture of energy costs. Additionally, the EPC label is linked to the 2050 renovation obligation: anyone who buys a home with label D, E or F must renovate within a certain period to at least label D (by 2032) and ultimately label A or B (by 2050).

How long is an EPC valid?

An EPC certificate is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. After this period expires, a new certificate must be requested if you want to sell or rent out the property. For major renovations, we recommend having a new EPC drawn up, even if the existing certificate is still valid — a better score can increase the value of your property.

Since July 2025: mandatory photo documentation

With the new inspection protocol IP2025 (in effect since 1 July 2025), photos are now mandatory as evidence for each EPC file. This means the energy expert takes photos of insulation, windows, heating systems and other relevant elements during the visit. At our inspections, we have been working with extensive photo documentation for some time, ensuring our clients always receive a complete and transparent file.

Request an EPC at EPC Expert

At EPC Expert, you can quickly and easily request an EPC certificate. Our certified energy experts (recognition numbers EP18784 and EP18782) visit your property for a thorough inspection. You typically receive your certificate within 48 hours of the visit.

Curious about our rates? Check our pricing page or request a free, no-obligation quote.