If you are considering selling your property in Spain, it is important to be aware of the latest changes to Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations. A valid EPC has been a legal requirement for many years, but new rules mean that sellers will now need to think about this certificate much earlier in the sales process.
Until recently, the EPC was only required at the final stage of a property sale — when signing the deeds before the notary. This meant many sellers waited until a buyer was found before applying for one.
However, under the new regulation, an EPC is now also required for a property valuation linked to a mortgage application. In practice, this means that if a potential buyer intends to purchase your home with a mortgage, the valuation surveyor will not be able to carry out their work without seeing the certificate.
As a result, delays can occur if the EPC is not already in place. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that sellers arrange an EPC as soon as the property goes on the market, rather than waiting until a later stage.
In addition to this earlier requirement, European regulations are also raising the standards for energy efficiency. By 2030, residential properties will need to meet a minimum E rating, and by 2033 the minimum will rise further to a D rating.
While this may seem some years away, buyers are already becoming more conscious of energy efficiency. Homes with higher ratings are increasingly attractive on the market, and properties with poor ratings could face reduced demand — or even become more difficult to sell in the future.
Fortunately, there are practical steps homeowners can take to improve their EPC rating, often without major investment. Some effective measures include:
• Improving insulation – Roof and wall insulation can make a dramatic difference to energy efficiency.
• Upgrading windows – Installing double or triple glazing helps reduce heat loss and improves comfort.
• Efficient lighting – Replacing old bulbs with LED lighting is a simple, low-cost step that improves your score.
• Heating and cooling systems – Modern boilers, heat pumps, or efficient air conditioning units can significantly increase your rating.
• Solar panels – While a larger investment, solar installations not only improve your EPC but also reduce energy bills.
For sellers in 2025, the message is clear: an EPC is no longer just a last-minute formality. It is now a critical part of the valuation process, and increasingly important for attracting serious buyers.
If you are preparing to sell your property in Spain, arranging an EPC early will help avoid delays, and considering energy efficiency improvements could make your home more competitive in the market.
At HomeEspaña, we work closely with trusted professionals who can advise on obtaining your EPC quickly and guide you on the most effective improvements for your property.
Contact us to organise a valuation now. EPCs are valid for 10 years, so why wait?
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