PEB certificate and electrical compliance: what every seller in Belgium needs to know

In Belgium, selling or renting a property requires compliance with certain legal obligations. Among these, two documents are essential: the PEB (Building Energy Performance) certificate and the electrical compliance report. Often perceived as mere formalities, these documents have a direct impact on the perception and success of the sale. In this article, we explain in detail what these certificates are for, who must provide them, and how to obtain them quickly and compliantly.

1. The PEB certificate: mandatory and influential

The PEB certificate assesses the energy performance of a home, taking into account:

• insulation,

• of the type of heating,

• glazing,

• and other technical parameters.

The rating ranges from A (very efficient) to G (very energy-intensive). This certificate is mandatory upon publication of a sale or rental advertisement, regardless of the region (Brussels, Wallonia, Flanders). It is valid for 10 years.

2. Specificities for apartments

As an apartment is integrated into a building, several collective elements influence its score:

• Insulation of facades and roofs,

• Heating system (individual or collective),

• Frame overlooking the common areas.

The overall PEB of a building is not relevant for the sale of an individual apartment. A PEB specific to the private unit, carried out by an approved certifier, is required.

3. Who is responsible for the PEB certificate?

It is the seller or lessor who must have the certificate drawn up. He must:

• Contact an approved certifier,

• Provide plans, technical surveys or proof of work,

• Ensure that the certificate is valid and compliant.

The condominium trustee can sometimes provide useful data (shared boiler, surface area, etc.), but is not responsible for the process.

4. How much does a PEB certificate cost?

The price varies depending on the size of the property and the complexity of the file:

• On average between €150 and €250 for an apartment,

• Additional charges may apply if documents are missing (plans, surveys).

5. Can you sell with a bad PEB?

Yes. The law does not require a good score, only the presentation of a valid certificate. However, an unfavorable PEB can:

• To put off some buyers,

• To provoke a downward negotiation,

• Give a bad first impression of the property.

👉 This is why some sellers choose to improve their score before listing.

6. How to improve a PEB without transforming the building?

Even without major renovations, certain actions can improve the score:

• Change the frames (double or triple glazing),

• Install interior insulation on the walls,

• Replace old convectors,

• Add a smart thermostat,

• Provide recent invoices to the certifier.

7. And the electrical compliance report?

It is mandatory in the event of a sale for goods installed before 1981. The certificate must:

• Be established by an approved body,

• Be presented to the buyer at the time of the compromise,

• Be compliant or not, without preventing the sale (but informing the buyer).

8. What are the risks in the event of non-compliance?

Selling without a PEB certificate or electrical report can lead to:

• Administrative fines (up to €1,000),

• A blockage by the notary,

• The removal of your ad on certain platforms.

  
  

---

🤝 Need help with your PEB?

At Diamant Consult, we take care of:

• Making an appointment with an approved certifier,

• Management of technical documents,

• Monitoring the electrical report,

• And integration into your sales file (private, public or Airbnb).

You save time, gain peace of mind, and ensure a smooth sale.

Contact