Update: 12 July 2026. Entry supplemented with changes introduced in 2026 (new certificate template with energy classes, obligations in advertisements). Regulations in this area are changing – verify details and current status in the Ustawa o charakterystyce energetycznej budynków (Act on the Energy Performance of Buildings) and in the central register maintained by the ministry.
What is an energy performance certificate
A certificate (colloquially: energy certificate) is a document that specifies how much energy a building or unit consumes – for heating, hot water, ventilation, and cooling. Key indicators are EP (primary energy), EK (final energy), and EU (useful energy). The certificate is prepared by an authorised person, entered in the central register of energy performance of buildings, and the document itself receives a number in this register.
What 2026 changes: energy classes A+–G
The biggest change in years: certificates are getting a new, graphic design with energy classes from A+ to G — as clear as labels on household appliances. Class A+ is reserved for buildings that produce more energy than they consume, A means a zero-emission building, and G means the most energy-intensive. This is the implementation of the EU building directive (EPBD):
- energy class and EP indicator in advertisements — sales or rental offers must include this data, so "class" will become a real price argument for properties;
- end of exemption for historic buildings — buildings under conservation protection, previously exempt, also need a certificate when sold or rented;
- new buildings — zero-emission direction: minimal fossil fuel consumption and RES as standard, certificate upon commissioning;
- Certificates issued earlier generally remain valid until the end of their term — but when selling, it is worth checking whether a document without a class will weaken the offer compared to competitors who already show the class.
Who is affected by the obligation (rules from 2023)
- for sale — the buyer must receive the certificate with the notarial deed, and the notary records its transfer;
- for rent — the tenant receives a copy of the certificate upon concluding the agreement;
- for new buildings — the certificate is attached to the notification of completion of construction (with the exception of, among others, houses up to 70 m² built for own use);
- parameters from the certificate must also be included in the sales or rental advertisement.
Failure to provide a certificate when required may result in a fine. If you live in your own home and do not plan to sell or rent it — you still do not need a certificate.
How long is it valid
The certificate remains valid for 10 years. It loses its validity earlier if works changing the energy characteristics have been carried out in the building — e.g., thermal modernisation or replacement of the heat source. A paradox? Only apparent: after insulation or furnace replacement, a new certificate usually shows a better class — which works to the seller's advantage.
How the certificate preparation looks like
- we collect data about the building: areas, partitions, windows, heating system and ventilation (technical documentation helps, and in its absence — a local inspection);
- we perform calculations of energy characteristics;
- the certificate is registered in the central register and you receive it with a number — in electronic or paper version.
How much does it cost
The price depends on the type of property — a certificate for an apartment is cheaper than for a house or an entire building. At ENERTIA, you know the price upfront, before commissioning: order a certificate online, and we will prepare the document without leaving your home where documentation is sufficient.
Selling or renting in 2026? Don't leave the certificate until the last minute before the notary — and if your advertisement is to compete with offers showing the energy class, a document in the new design is an asset, not a formality.
