An energy label for your house in the Netherlands? What is the difference between a B-label and a D-label? That was what somebody asked me this week. Good subject for a blog.
A house is not a car or electrical device. But they have in common that they all have an energy label.
In this blog you will find what an energy label is, but also the new regulations in 2021.
What is the energy label?
An energy label for a house gives you an estimate of how much energy a house will cost you. That is good to know before you buy or rent a house. Also, there is mentioned what to do to improve your house. The aim is that you will think about how to make your house more sustainable. Even the estimated costs are in there.
Due to European regulations, all houses need to have an energy label when they are for sale or for rent. If not, the owner risks a fine of a few hundred euros. The energy label is valid for 10 years.
In 2015 every house in the Netherlands received an indication. This is based on the characteristics and construction year of the house.
Which gradations do you have?
The gradations run from A++++ to G. A is very energy efficient (green) and G is not insulated at all (dark red). If an energy label is still an indication, normally the colour grey is used. However, before you buy a house, the final label needs to be handed over. There are 10 characteristics on which the label is based.
Why is the energy label important before you buy a house in the Netherlands?
Before you buy a house in the Netherlands, checking the energy label is important. The reason is:
– Gas and electricity are expensive.
– You know on forehand how much energy and gas the house will need. Of course, it depends also on your own behaviour.
– It also gives you an indication of where you can improve your house.
Normally, a house with an A-label is more expensive than a house with a D- or G-label.
Where do you ask for an energy label?
The only way to ask for an energy label is at the website of the Dutch government. In 2022 an energy label for your house in the Netherlands will cost at least €250-€300. This depends on the type of house, the time the energy advisor needs and which documentation is available. It is valid for 10 years.
3 steps you can take:
Step 1 Check if the house already has an energy label on https://www.ep-online.nl/.
Step 2 Search for all the documents about the house. Bills from construction companies, drawings, pictures, receipts etc.
Step 3 Search for a certified advisor on this website.
Step 4: Plan the appointment with the advisor.
How to improve the energy label of your house?
The 10 characteristics on which the energy label is based are:
1. Type of house.
2. Size of the house.
3. Construction year.
4. Kind of glass. Are there single-glass, double-glass or even triple-glass panels?
5. Facade insulation.
6. Roof insulation.
7. The kind of heating system which is used. Read here more about 8 ways to heat your house in the Netherlands.
8. Separate heating system for hot water (not the kitchen boiler).
9. Ventilation system
10. Solar panels and solar boiler.
So, if you want to have a better label, you can improve one of the above characteristics. Don’t know where to begin? That is really normal, for a Dutch is it already tricky. You can contact me, and we will make a plan together.
There are several subsidies for improving your house. You can check on: https://www.verbeterjehuis.nl/energiesubsidiewijzer/.
Conclusion
It is worthwhile checking the energy label before you buy a house in the Netherlands. The label gives you valuable information about how to improve your house to make it more energy efficient. If you bought a house, you could improve the insulation and heating system. That improves the label too! Your house probably has more value in the future.
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