EPC: the new measures for homes under 40m2

The housing sector is currently facing major challenges, and a new strategy is being put in place to address them. Following the commitment of the Prime Minister, Gabriel Attal, to deliver a "shock" in favour of housing, the Minister for Ecological Transition and Housing, Christophe Béchu, has announced a revision of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

In a recent interview with Le Parisien, the minister emphasised the need to correct a calculation bias affecting the EPC, and announced the launch of a consultation for the reform via a decree. He explained that this bias, linked to the size of homes, leads to an erroneous classification in the "F" and "G" categories for nearly 27% of homes under 40 square metres. This correction is expected to enable around 140,000 homes under 40 m² to move out of the energy sieve category.

EPC, a quick reminder

Introduced in 2006, the EPC rates the energy performance of homes from A to G, and since July 2021 it has also taken into account their impact on the climate. A recent study by the Council of Economic Analysis has highlighted certain shortcomings of the EPC, notably an error in estimating the energy consumption of some properties.

What regulations?

Regarding the regulations, since 1 January 2023, the most energy-hungry homes have been banned from being rented out, and from 2025 the rental of homes rated G will be completely prohibited in order to meet France's climate objectives. However, the minister specified that amendments will be made to clarify the rules, particularly with regard to the work required to re-let homes rated G.

And finally?

In parallel, announcements are expected to simplify the MaPrimeRénov' energy renovation support scheme, following discussions with stakeholders in the construction sector. Finally, discussions are planned with stakeholders in the banking sector to develop new financing schemes, particularly for people experiencing difficulties in obtaining a property loan.