The APE (Energy Performance Certificate) is a document that describes the energy characteristics of a building, house or flat. It is a mandatory control tool for the sale or rental of a property. An APE is valid for 10 years. To maintain its validity, the boiler must be inspected as required by law. An inspection of the property is mandatory.
When is it mandatory to draw up the certificate?
Since 1 July 2009, the APE must be drawn up in the case of property sales. Since January 2012, energy performance indices must be included in property advertisements.
The energy certifier is usually a technician qualified to design buildings and systems, such as an architect, engineer or surveyor.
How is the APE produced?
An energy analysis of the property is carried out, taking into account various characteristics. The certifier then performs the calculations using certified software, compiles the document and issues the APE, which summarises the energy characteristics of the property.
The APE must be kept with the boiler manual and handed over to the new owner or tenant.
The certifier must submit a copy of the APE to the relevant regional authority.
Why obtain an energy performance certificate?
As mentioned above, the EPC is required by law.
Its main purposes are:
– A tool for assessing the economic viability of purchasing or renting a property in relation to energy consumption
– A tool for recommending effective energy efficiency improvements
Although it may seem like a mere bureaucratic formality for existing buildings, the APE is a document that will bring significant benefits in the coming years. In particular, there will be:
– An increase in the value of properties with low energy consumption at the time of sale or rental
– Incentives for the construction of energy-efficient buildings and energy-efficient renovations with clear improvements in CO2 pollution levels
APE and digital signature
The certificate can also be signed by the technician with a digital signature. Some regions use this method exclusively to receive APEs in their energy register. Citizens or notaries can use this link to verify the validity of the digital signature: Verify digital signature.
The digital signature is fully legally valid and can replace the paper copy.