The energy certificate is a key document for owners, tenants and buyers. It provides an overview of a building's energy efficiency. But which types are there and what do they mean? This article clarifies the most important questions.

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What types of energy certificates are there?

There are two types of Energy certificates: the consumption certificate and the requirement certificate. Both have different principles and areas of application and are required depending on the condition of the building and year of construction.

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What is the difference between the requirement certificate and the consumption certificate?

The requirement certificate calculates the energy quality of a building on the basis of structural characteristics and heating technology. The consumption certificate, on the other hand, is based on the actual measured energy consumption data of residents.

Requirement certificate

The requirement certificate uses all relevant building data, such as year of construction, building type, technical building features and heating data. This data is calculated under standardized conditions (e.g. climate data, usage behavior, room temperature).

• vantage: The results are independent of the individual heating and usage patterns of residents and therefore provide an objective basis.
• drawback: The significance depends heavily on the care and competence of those who issue the card. Low-cost offers may be less accurate.

Consumption certificate

The consumption certificate uses energy consumption data from the last three years. This data is usually derived from heating cost and consumption statements. Vacancies during the billing period should be taken into account for the most accurate assessment possible.

• vantage: Preparation is usually cheaper and less complex, as existing consumption statements can be used.
• drawback: The results depend heavily on individual heating behavior. Vacancies or exceptional weather conditions can distort the results.

What are the costs for a requirement certificate and consumption certificate?

The costs for a requirement certificate are usually between 300 and 700 euros. The creation is more complex and requires a comprehensive analysis of the building data. A consumption certificate is significantly cheaper and usually costs between 50 and 150 euros, as it is based on existing consumption data.

Requirement certificate or consumption certificate: What do I need?

Whether a requirement certificate or a consumption certificate is required depends on various factors. A requirement certificate is generally required for new buildings, as no consumption data is available. In the case of existing buildings, it depends on the year of construction and the condition of the building. A requirement certificate can always be selected, but there are special regulations as to when a consumption certificate is also possible.

For buildings with five or more residential units, it is always possible to choose the consumption certificate. If the number is less than that, the following criteria apply:

• Building application after 01.11.1977: A consumption certificate is allowed.
• Building application before 01.11.1977, building renovated or modernized: A consumption certificate is also possible.
• Building application before 01.11.1977, no renovation or modernization: In this case, a requirement certificate is required.

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Who can issue the ID card?

Only people who can prove certain qualifications and expertise may issue an energy certificate. This includes:

• architects and civil engineerswho have the necessary education and practical experience.
• Craftsman with additional qualification, such as energy consultant or building energy consultant (HWK).
• Energy consultant with BAFA approval, which are specially trained to issue energy certificates.
• Technician and master craftsman in the construction or heating sectorif they can demonstrate additional continuing education in the area of energy consulting.

You qualified experts via the official List of energy experts the German Energy Agency (dena). This list contains certified specialists who are authorized to issue energy certificates.

What do I need an energy certificate for?

An energy certificate is required by law in Germany and should transparently present the energy efficiency of a building. It is required in the following situations:

• Selling a building or apartment: Buyers can use the energy certificate to evaluate the energy quality of the property.
• Renting: Landlords must present the energy certificate to potential tenants so that they can estimate energy costs.
• new building: Each new building must be equipped with a requirement certificate that proves the energy standards.
• Refurbishment: For major modernization measures, the energy certificate is often used for planning and may be required for funding programs.

Which is better requirement or consumption certificate?

The Requirement certificate provides more accurate results regardless of user behavior and is particularly suitable for older buildings or renovation plans. The Consumption certificate is cheaper and easier, but offers less reliable information. The demand certificate is the better choice for long-term planning, while the consumption certificate is sufficient for well-insulated buildings.

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