Energy performance certificate (APE): what it is, what it is used for anche how to obtain it to sell your home

Are you selling your home? Find out why the APE is one of the essential documents for completing the sale in a regular manner, without risking penalties or delays in the notarial deed.

What is the Energy Performance Certificate (APE)?

The Energy Performance Certificate, commonly known as APE, is a document required by law that indicates the energy class of a property, i.e., how much energy it consumes for heating, cooling, and domestic hot water production.

Since 2013, it has replaced the old ACE (Energy Certification Certificate). It is valid for 10 years, unless structural or plant modifications require an update.

When is the APE required?

The APE is required in all cases of sale or rental of a property. Without an APE, the deed is null and void: the notary cannot draw up the deed without this document.

In particular, it is required:

• To sell a house: it must be delivered to the buyer before the notarial deed.
• To rent a house: the energy class must be indicated in the property advertisement.
• In the case of major renovations or new constructions

What the APE contains

The APE includes:

• The energy class of the property (from the maximum efficiency A4 to the minimum G)
• The overall energy performance index
• Recommendations for improving efficiency
• Identification data for the building, heating system, insulation materials, fixtures, etc.

How to obtain APE: documents and procedure

To obtain the APE, you must contact a qualified energy certifier (architect, engineer, surveyor, or registered expert).

Required documents:

• Cadastral plan
• Cadastral certificate
• Heating system logbook (if independent)
• Central heating logbook (for centralized systems)
• Year of construction of the property
• Owner's identity document

Procedure:

• Mandatory inspection by a technician
• Collection of data on systems, materials, surfaces, exposure
• Calculation using certified software
• Registration of the APE with the regional energy registry
• Issuance of the certificate

How much does it cost?

The cost of the APE varies depending on factors such as:

• Size of the property
• Region
• Professional fees

What happens if you don't have it?

• You risk an administrative fine of between €500 and €18,000
• The notarial deed will be blocked
• The sale or rental advertisement will be irregular

Improving the energy class: an added advantage

A good APE can increase the attractiveness of the property, allowing you to sell it faster and at a more competitive price.

Consider measures such as:

• Thermal insulation
• Replacement of fixtures
• Condensing boiler
• Solar or photovoltaic panels

Do you need an APE to sell your home?

Toscano will assist you in gathering all the necessary documents, including the APE, to speed up the sale and guarantee a safe and smooth process.