News: All you need to know about the Spanish Energy Efficiency Certificate

The purpose of the Certificado de Eficiencia Energética (CEE) is to ensure that homes are able to run more efficiently and in turn reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Back in 2013, Spain introduced a new law obliging property owners to get this energy efficiency certificate before they are able to sell or rent their properties.

The certificate offers the seller all the relevant information about energy consumption while it informs the buyer about the energy characteristics of different buildings in their decision prior to the signing of a lease or purchase agreement, making it possible to compare the energy costs.

Here is how it works: the certificate assigns an energy rating to each home on a scale which ranges from "A" (the most efficient) to "G" (the less efficient) and it must be registered by the building owner with the Autonomous Administration.

The energy performance certificates are issued by qualified professional technicians who are authorised to undertake building projects, or architects. They will visit the property to take measurements and collect information before drawing up and certifying the report. The certificate is then valid for 10 years unless any renovation or changes to the property are carried out.

If you are trying to sell or rent out your Costa Blanca property, make sure you hold an EPC. Otherwise you can be fined.