Frequently asked questions – what is an Energy Efficiency Certificate?
WHAT IS an Energy Efficiency Certificate?In the UK they are known as Energy Performance Certificates. In Spain it is a Certificado de Eficiencia Energética. An EEC provides a rating for a building about energy efficiency and carbon monoxide emissions using an A to G scale. Think of a house like a new fridge freezer, to sell or rent it you must display an EEC to a prospective buyer or tenant.
Read moreWho does the new property law apply to?
An EEC is mandatory for everybody selling a home and must be obtained before a property is advertised. Rental properties that are occupied for more than 4 months of the year must obtain an EEC for prospective tenants. This applies to real estate agents, rental agents and private individuals. Detached properties with a total floor area of less than 50 square metres are exempt. The certificate is valid for 10 years.
Read moreWhy is the EEC being introduced into Spain?
The Spanish government is obligated by the European Parliament directive on the energy efficiency of buildings to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020. Following several years of delays, the EEC was implemented on 1st June 2013. The new law will help, in part, to achieve Spain’s pledge to the Kyoto Protocol.
Read moreWho can issue an EEC?
A valid EEC must be issued by an architect, engineer, or a qualified technician who is authorised to undertake building projects and thermal installations for buildings. The individual will have completed a special government training course on Existing Building Energy Certification, and be trained in the software designed to issue the certificate. They will belong to an official provincial association (colegio oficial) and have a member number.
Sparks work closely with a local architect in order to issue EECs. Our architect is registered at the Colegio de Arquitectos de Alicante having graduated with honours obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, so you can rest assured our Energy Efficiency Certificates are fully authorised.
Read moreWhat is the penalty if you don’t have an EEC?
Failure to comply will be considered an infringement on the law for certification of the energy performance of buildings. Moreover the offense is punishable under Consumer Protection Law.
Significant fines will apply to real estate agents, rental agents, as well as private individuals in the region of 300 to 6,000 euros depending whether the infringement is considered minor, serious or very serious.
AVEN (Agencia Valenciana de la Energía) is the registry of the Comunidad Valenciana is responsible for EEC inspection and control. The Region of Murcia has also created a registry for its own Autonomous Community. The registries will establish and implement a system of independent monitoring.
Read moreHow much does it cost?
150 euros plus IVA, any home, any size.
Contact us for an EEC survey