New energy rules for French homes in 2025
What holiday homeowners need to know and do
2 minutes to read
What’s changing?
From 2025, new regulations in France will prohibit renting properties with a G energy rating, a key part of the country’s energy efficiency strategy.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), or “diagnostic de performance énergétique” (DPE), are already mandatory for all properties sold or rented in France. They rate energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and guide efforts to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
Why is an EPC important?
EPCs provide detailed insights into a property’s energy performance, including its energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and estimated operating costs. They also recommend upgrades to improve efficiency. Certified professionals must conduct these assessments, and the EPC remains valid for ten years.
Since 2021, EPC ratings have become legally binding, meaning buyers or tenants can seek compensation if a property does not meet its stated energy performance.
Starting in 2025, G-rated properties will no longer qualify for rental, with stricter rules for F-rated homes by 2028.
While these changes do not limit sales, they make renovation costs more transparent, potentially lowering the market value of low-rated properties. Landlords of inefficient homes may choose to sell rather than upgrade, possibly increasing the availability of older properties.
Timelines
Rental bans
• 2025: Properties rated G will be banned from being rented out
• 2028: Properties rated F or below will be banned from being rented out
• 2034: Properties rated E or below will be banned from being rented out
EPC rules for rentals
• From 2025: Properties for rent must have a minimum EPC rating of F or be rated up to 420 kWh per m²
• From 2028: Properties for rent must have a minimum EPC rating of E or be rated up to 330 kWh per m²
• From 2034: Properties for rent must have a minimum EPC rating of D or be rated up to 250 kWh per m²
What action do owners of rental properties take?
These changes are especially significant for foreign owners of holiday homes in France who may rent their properties seasonally. To comply, owners must ensure their properties meet energy standards before renting. Failure to act could mean losing rental income opportunities and facing difficulties in selling low-rated homes at competitive prices.
Owners of G-rated properties should act now by commissioning an energy audit and exploring available renovation grants to improve energy efficiency. Taking early steps can safeguard rental income, protect the property’s value, and support compliance with upcoming regulations.
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