Updated: 12 July 2026. The entry has been 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 (Polish Act on Energy Performance of Buildings) and in the central register kept by the ministry.
What is an energy performance certificate
A certificate (commonly: energy certificate) is a document that determines how much energy a building or premises consumes - for heating, hot water, ventilation and cooling. Key indicators are EP (primary energy), EK (final energy) and EU (usable 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 changes in 2026: energy classes A+-G
The biggest change in years: certificates get a new, graphic template 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 - the most energy-intensive. This is the implementation of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD):
- energy class and EP indicator in advertisements - the offer of sale or rent must contain these data, so the "class" will become a real price argument for the property;
- end of exemption for historical monuments - 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, energy performance certificate upon commissioning;
- certificates issued earlier generally remain valid until their expiry date - but when selling, it is worth checking whether a document without a class will weaken the offer against competitors who already display the class.
Who is affected by the obligation (rules from 2023)
- upon sale - the buyer must receive the certificate at the notary deed, and the notary records its handover;
- upon rental - 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 (except, among others, houses up to 70 m² built for own needs);
- parameters from the certificate must also be included in the sale or rental advertisement.
Failure to provide a certificate when required may result in a fine. If you live in your own house 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 expires earlier if works changing the energy performance have been carried out in the building - e.g. thermal modernisation or replacement of the heat source. A paradox? Only seemingly: after insulation or boiler replacement, a new certificate usually shows a better class - which works to the seller's advantage.
What the preparation of the certificate looks like
- we collect data about the building: areas, partitions, windows, heating system and ventilation (technical documentation helps, and in its absence - a site inspection);
- we perform energy performance calculations;
- 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 ordering: order a certificate online, and we will prepare the document without you leaving home where documentation is sufficient.
Selling or renting in 2026? Do not leave the certificate to the last minute before the notary - and if your advertisement is to compete with offers showing the energy class, a document in the new format is an asset, not a formality.
