{"id":19009,"date":"2025-07-25T16:54:15","date_gmt":"2025-07-25T16:54:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/energy-class-in-apartments-why-the-energy-performance-certificatematters\/"},"modified":"2025-07-29T20:17:46","modified_gmt":"2025-07-29T20:17:46","slug":"energy-class-in-apartments-why-the-energy-performance-certificatematters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/energy-class-in-apartments-why-the-energy-performance-certificatematters\/","title":{"rendered":"Energy Class in Apartments \u2013 Why the Energy Performance Certificate<br>Matters"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"19009\" class=\"elementor elementor-19009 elementor-18735\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4ce92d9d e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4ce92d9d\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1939ceb6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1939ceb6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"articol\"><div class=\"text\"><p>When you&#8217;re thinking about buying or renting an apartment, the energy class should be an important factor. It shows how energy-efficient the property is and directly impacts your monthly costs and the long-term value of the property. <\/p><h2>What is the energy class and the energy performance certificate<\/h2><p>The energy class of an apartment is an indicator of its energy efficiency, similar to the labels on home appliances. This classification gives you a clear idea of how much energy the property consumes and helps you estimate maintenance costs. But what exactly does the energy certificate represent and why is it important?  <\/p><p>The Energy Performance Certificate, also called the energy certificate, is an official document certifying the energy performance of a building. It includes detailed information about: <\/p><ul><li>Primary and final energy consumption<\/li><li>CO\u2082 emissions<\/li><li>Recommendations to improve energy efficiency<\/li><li>Energy classification<\/li><\/ul><p>In practice, the energy certificate classifies properties based on their annual energy consumption, expressed in kWh\/m\u00b2\/year. The classification ranges from class A (most efficient) to class G (least efficient), helping you quickly identify low-energy properties. <\/p><p><img decoding=\"async\" contenteditable=\"false\" draggable=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Clasa-energetica%CC%86-la-apartament.jpg\" alt=\"Apartment energy certificate, energy class highlights the importance of performance\" data-provider=\"8\" data-imageid=\"101\" data-aiprompt=\"A photorealistic shot capturing a close-up of an energy performance certificate, with the energy class &#039;A&#039; prominently highlighted. The certificate is lying on a table in a modern apartment. Styled with soft, natural lighting, focusing on the details of the document and the importance of energy efficiency. Reflecting a theme of sustainability and informed decision-making.\" data-generating=\"false\" title=\"\"><\/p><h2>Classification of energy classes and their meaning<\/h2><p>To better understand what each energy class means, let\u2019s take a look at how the classification system works and what it implies for you, as an owner or tenant of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/apartamente\/2-room-apartments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"canonical noopener\">two-room apartment<\/a> or any other type of apartment. Which is the best energy class and what advantages does it offer? <\/p><p><strong>Energy Class A \u2013 Maximum Efficiency<\/strong><\/p><p>Apartments in class A are the most energy-efficient. With a consumption of up to 125 kWh\/m\u00b2\/year, these properties offer: <\/p><ul><li>Minimal energy bills<\/li><li>Consistent thermal comfort all year round<\/li><li>Reduced environmental impact<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Energy Class B \u2013 Good Performance<\/strong><\/p><p>Properties in this class are energy efficient and a good choice for those seeking comfort and savings.<\/p><p><strong>Energy Class C \u2013 Average Performance<\/strong><\/p><p>Many older apartment buildings that have undergone improvements fall into this category. It represents a balance between cost and efficiency.  <\/p><p><strong>Energy Class D \u2013 Below Average<\/strong><\/p><p>Apartments in class D consume more energy and may require investments to become more efficient.<\/p><p><strong>Energy Class E \u2013 Poor Performance<\/strong><\/p><p>Properties in class E often have insulation and heating system issues, resulting in high energy bills.<\/p><p><strong>Energy Classes F and G \u2013 Very Poor Efficiency<\/strong><\/p><p>These classes reflect very low energy performance, high costs, and a negative environmental impact. Major renovations are needed to improve efficiency. <\/p><h2>The impact of the energy class on energy consumption and bills<\/h2><p>The difference between energy classes is directly reflected in your utility bills. An apartment in class A can consume up to 6 times less energy than one in class G. This difference translates into significant monthly savings. But how large are these savings, exactly?  <\/p><p>For example:<\/p><ul><li>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/apartamente\/3-room-apartments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"canonical noopener\">three-room apartment <\/a>of 70 sqm in class A: approx. 8,750 kWh\/year<\/li><li>The same apartment in class G: over 57,400 kWh\/year<\/li><\/ul><p>This difference means savings of hundreds or even thousands of lei per year. In the long term, an apartment with a good energy class is a smart investment. <\/p><p>Additionally, energy-efficient apartments offer better thermal comfort with consistent temperatures, which contributes to a more pleasant living experience. Whether you\u2019re looking for a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/apartamente\/studios\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"canonical noopener\">studio apartment<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/apartamente\/with-garden\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"canonical noopener\">garden apartment<\/a>, or a small cozy space, choose one with high energy efficiency! <\/p><h2>What factors influence energy efficiency?<\/h2><p>The energy efficiency of your apartment depends on several important factors that help reduce energy losses.<\/p><p><strong>Thermal insulation<\/strong><\/p><p>It is the main barrier against heat loss. Good insulation can reduce energy consumption by up to 40%, making it the most important investment for energy efficiency. <\/p><p><img decoding=\"async\" contenteditable=\"false\" draggable=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Clasa-energetica-izolatia-termica-small-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"External thermal insulation of a block of flats, energy efficiency\" data-provider=\"8\" data-imageid=\"102\" data-aiprompt=\"A photorealistic shot capturing the exterior of an apartment building undergoing thermal insulation work. Workers are applying insulation panels to the facade. Styled with bright daylight, focusing on the process of insulation and its impact on energy efficiency. Reflecting a theme of home improvement and energy conservation.\" data-generating=\"false\" title=\"\"><\/p><p><strong>Window quality<\/strong><\/p><p>Windows with double glazing and good frames reduce heat loss. Old windows can be responsible for up to 25% of heat losses. <\/p><p><strong>Heating systems<\/strong><\/p><p>Modern boilers or efficient centralized heating systems help reduce consumption. New technologies can improve efficiency by 20\u201330% compared to older systems. <\/p><h2>How the energy class affects the selling or rental price<\/h2><p>On a scale from A (very efficient) to G (very inefficient), this classification directly influences the perception of buyers and tenants, and therefore the asking price and the time required to complete a transaction.<\/p><p><strong>Advantages for energy-efficient properties (classes A, B, C)<\/strong><\/p><p><strong>1. Higher selling prices<\/strong><\/p><p>Homes with a higher energy class can be valued up to 5\u201315% more compared to similar but less efficient ones. They are perceived as: <\/p><ul><li>More modern<\/li><li>Better insulated<\/li><li>Equipped with efficient heating and cooling systems (heat pumps, condensing boilers, etc.)<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>2. Shorter time on the market<\/strong><\/p><p>Apartments in classes A or B sell and rent faster because buyers are attracted by the idea of lower bills and improved comfort. Real estate investors increasingly target such properties, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/apartamente\/4-room-apartments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"canonical noopener\">four-room apartments<\/a>. <\/p><p><strong>3. Tenants willing to pay more<\/strong><\/p><p>In a context of rising energy prices, many tenants are willing to pay a higher monthly rent in exchange for lower utility costs.<\/p><p><strong>4. More stable resale value<\/strong><\/p><p>In the long term, energy efficiency ensures slower depreciation, especially in the context of new European regulations penalizing inefficient buildings.<\/p><p><strong>Challenges for inefficient properties (classes F, G)<\/strong><\/p><p><strong>1. Difficulties in selling or renting<\/strong><\/p><p>Properties with poor energy ratings can stay on the market for months without offers, especially in major cities with competitive listings.<\/p><p><strong>2. Significant price reductions<\/strong><\/p><p>To attract potential buyers, owners often need to lower the price by 10\u201320%, mainly due to high heating and maintenance costs.<\/p><p><strong>3. Renovation negotiations<\/strong><\/p><p>More and more buyers ask for additional discounts to cover the cost of energy upgrades: replacing windows, adding insulation, changing the boiler, etc.<\/p><p><strong>Financing opportunities for energy-efficient homes<\/strong><\/p><p><strong>1. Green Mortgages<\/strong><\/p><p>Some banks in Romania and the EU offer:<\/p><ul><li>Interest rates 0.1\u20130.3 percentage points lower<\/li><li>Reduced down payments<\/li><li>Consultancy for obtaining the energy certificate<\/li><\/ul><p>These benefits are conditional on:<\/p><ul><li>Presenting an energy certificate with class A or B<\/li><li>Sometimes, additional documentation about system efficiency (solar panels, heat pumps, etc.)<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>2. Governmental or EU programs<\/strong><\/p><p>Through programs like &#8216;Casa Verde&#8217; or PNRR funding, homeowners can access grants for renovations that improve energy performance. These investments can automatically increase property value and upgrade the energy class. <\/p><h2>What is the energy performance certificate and when is it mandatory<\/h2><p>The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an official document that certifies the energy efficiency of a building or building unit. It is issued by an authorized energy auditor and is valid for 10 years, provided no major modifications affecting the building\u2019s energy consumption are made. <\/p><p>The document reflects the energy needed for heating, cooling, lighting, ventilation, and hot water, and classifies the property into an energy class.<\/p><p><strong>C\u00e2nd este obligatoriu certificatul de performan\u021b\u0103 energetic\u0103?<\/strong><\/p><p>In Romania, the law requires obtaining and presenting the energy certificate in several situations with legal and financial impact:<\/p><p><strong>1. When selling a property<\/strong><\/p><p>The certificate must be presented before signing the sale-purchase contract. Without it, the transaction can be annulled by court upon request. <\/p><p><strong>2. When renting an apartment or space<\/strong><\/p><p>The owner must provide the tenant with the energy certificate. Failure to do so can lead to contract annulment or prevent official registration. <\/p><p><strong>3. For new buildings<\/strong><\/p><p>For construction completion approval, the building permit must be accompanied by the energy certificate, as part of the final technical documentation. <\/p><p><strong>4. After major renovation works<\/strong><\/p><p>If significant changes are made (insulation, heating systems, installations), the energy certificate must be updated to reflect the new performance.<\/p><p><strong>5. For public buildings over 250 sqm<\/strong><\/p><p>Public institutions are legally required to display the energy certificate in a visible place to ensure transparency regarding the building\u2019s energy consumption.<\/p><p><strong>What information does the energy certificate contain?<\/strong><\/p><p>The certificate is a technical document, but it offers essential information for owners, buyers, or tenants. It includes: <\/p><p><strong>&#8211; The property\u2019s energy class (from A to G), indicating overall efficiency<\/strong><\/p><p>This is expressed on a scale from A to G and reflects the overall efficiency of the home.<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; Annual specific energy consumption (kWh\/sqm\/year), giving a clear cost estimate<\/strong><\/p><p>It is expressed in kWh\/m2\/year and provides a clear picture of potential energy-related expenses.<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; CO\u2082 emissions \u2013 relevant for environmental impact, these values are especially important in the context of European emission reduction policies.<\/strong><\/p><p>Relevant for environmental impact, these values are especially important in the context of European emission reduction policies.<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; Technical recommendations for improvements: additional thermal insulation, changing joinery,modernizing installations or installing renewable sources.<\/strong><\/p><p>Concrete suggestions are offered, such as additional thermal insulation, changing joinery, modernizing installations or installing renewable sources.<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; Estimated costs for modernization \u2013 the auditor may include an approximation of the investmentsneeded to raise the energy level of the building.<\/strong><\/p><p>The auditor may include an approximation of the investments needed to raise the energy level of the building.<\/p><p><strong>What happens if you don\u2019t have an energy certificate?<\/strong><\/p><p>The lack of this document can have serious legal and financial consequences:<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; Invalidated transactions<\/strong><\/p><p>Sale-purchase or rental contracts may be considered void if the certificate is not present at the time of signing.<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; Fines and sanctions<\/strong><\/p><p>Authorities may apply administrative fines for not having the certificate, especially in the case of public institutions or new buildings.<\/p><p><strong>&#8211; Loss of opportunities<\/strong><\/p><p>Without a good certificate, potential buyers may request significant discounts or even withdraw from the transaction. Also, the absence of the document can exclude the property from certain platforms or banking offers (green loans, financing programs). <\/p><h2>How do you obtain the energy performance certificate?<\/h2><p>The process is simple but must be followed carefully:<\/p><ol><li>Contact an energy auditor authorized by the Ministry of Development.<\/li><li>Provide the necessary documents (plans, blueprints, technical details about the building).<\/li><li>Allow the auditor to perform an on-site inspection.<\/li><li>You receive the certificate in both electronic and physical format, signed and stamped.<\/li><\/ol><p>The price of a certificate varies depending on the size of the property, the complexity of the construction, and the county in which it is located.<\/p><h2>Tips for improving the energy class of an old apartment<\/h2><p>If you have an apartment with a low energy class, there are several actions you can take to improve its efficiency. What are the most effective methods and how can you get started? <\/p><p><strong>Top Priority: Thermal Insulation<\/strong><\/p><p>Insulating exterior walls is the best investment. You can choose between: <\/p><ul><li>External insulation (more efficient, but requires association approval)<\/li><li>Internal insulation (easier to do individually)<\/li><li>Attic or ceiling insulation<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Window Replacement<\/strong><\/p><p>Double-glazed windows can reduce heat loss by up to 25%. The investment usually pays for itself in 5\u20137 years through energy savings. <\/p><p><img decoding=\"async\" contenteditable=\"false\" draggable=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Clasa-energetica-la-apartament-ultima-poza-din-articol.jpg\" alt=\"Double-glazed windows in a modern apartment, energy efficiency\" data-provider=\"8\" data-imageid=\"103\" data-aiprompt=\"A photorealistic shot capturing modern, energy-efficient windows (termopan) installed in an apartment. The windows are letting in natural light, showcasing their clarity and insulation properties. Styled with a focus on interior design and energy conservation, reflecting a theme of comfortable and sustainable living. The apartment should have a contemporary Romanian design.\" data-generating=\"false\" title=\"\"><\/p><p><strong>Heating System Modernization<\/strong><\/p><p>A new heating system can significantly improve energy efficiency. You can opt for modern boilers, heat pumps, or hybrid systems. What are the pros and cons of each option and how can you make the best choice?  <\/p><p><strong>Other Measures<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>Use LED light bulbs<\/li><li>Install programmable thermostats<\/li><li>Seal cracks and leaks<\/li><li>Use thermal curtains<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>How to Plan Your Investments<\/strong><\/p><p>To achieve the best results, prioritize investments as follows:<br>1. Start with insulation<br>2. Replace windows<br>3. Upgrade the heating system<br>4. Apply other supporting measures <\/p><p>Understanding the energy class of apartments is crucial for making informed decisions and contributing to a greener future. By optimizing energy consumption, you not only reduce costs but also help protect the environment. <\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When you&#8217;re thinking about buying or renting an apartment, the energy class should be an important factor. It shows how energy-efficient the property is and directly impacts your monthly costs and the long-term value of the property. What is the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":18803,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[130,133],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-19009","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-useful-tips","category-news"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19009","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19009"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19009\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19030,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19009\/revisions\/19030"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18803"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19009"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19009"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cloud9residence.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19009"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}