2026 Energy Performance Certificate: The Reform That Changes Everything for Homeowners and Buyers
Since January 1, 2026, the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has been recalculated differently. The result: 850,000 homes have automatically changed categories—without any renovations whatsoever. Some homeowners have avoided a price reduction of €20,000 to €50,000 without even realizing it. Others have sold their homes while incurring an unjustified penalty. Here is everything you need to know.
Why did the DPE change on January 1, 2026?
The new calculation corrects an anomaly that disadvantaged homes heated with electricity. Until 2025, the conversion factor for final energy to primary energy for electricity was 2.3; as of January 1, 2026, it is 1.9.
In practical terms, the method now assumes that generating 1 kWh of electricity consumes less primary energy than before—a reality linked to France’s nuclear power plants and renewable energy sources. The calculated energy consumption of an electrically heated home drops by about 17%, representing an improvement of one to two energy efficiency ratings. According to the Ministry of Ecological Transition, 850,000 homes will no longer be classified as energy-inefficient (F or G) without any renovations.
Direct impact on the market
For sellers: a golden opportunity (if you know about it)
A property rated F or G typically faces an average price reduction of 10% to 25%, depending on its location. With the new calculation method, thousands of owners of energy-efficient homes can obtain an upgraded energy efficiency label for free , directly on the ADEME website, without the need for another inspection. The result: no more unjustified price reductions, and a requirement to display an energy efficiency certificate at
announcement of the day, and potential elimination of the energy audit if the property’s rating changes from F to E or from G to F.
For landlords: a way out
As of January 1, 2025, properties classified as G are prohibited from being rented out in mainland France. The 2026 reform automatically removes some of these properties from G classification, allowing them to continue to be rented out. For the others, MaPrimeRénov’ remains the key program, offering a 10% bonus through the guided renovation process. Please note: 2026 is the final year for these subsidies
on a case-by-case basis; starting in 2027, only comprehensive renovations will be eligible for the highest subsidies.
The price drop of energy-inefficient homes: region by region
The impact varies significantly by region: a G-rated home in Hauts-de-France faces a much steeper price reduction than one in PACA, as heating bills are structurally higher there.
| Region | House rated G (discount) | Apartment rated G (discount) |
| Hauts-de-France | -25 % | -13 % |
| Normandy | -23 % | -11 % |
| Brittany | -22 % | -12 % |
| Centre-Val de Loire | -21 % | -10 % |
| PACA | -12 % | -6 % |
| Paris (city center) | -3% to -5% | Virtually zero |
Case study: A G-rated house worth €200,000 in the Hauts-de-France region loses €50,000 in value; the same house in the PACA region loses only €24,000. In Paris, a paradox: a large proportion of the most viewed properties are rated E, F, or G—buyers base their decisions primarily on the three factors of price, square footage, and location, with the energy performance rating being a factor but not a deal-breaker.
Should you buy a thermal colander in 2026?
Yes, if you're ready to renovate
The 5.8 million F- or G-rated homes represent a wealth of opportunities. The purchase discount (20% to 25% on average for G-rated homes) can offset the cost of the work thanks to financial assistance programs: MaPrimeRénov’ Parcours Accompagné (up to 70% for low-income households), Éco-PTZ (up to €50,000), and a 5.5% VAT rate on energy-efficient renovations.
No, if your calculations don't add up
If the cost of the renovations exceeds the expected increase in value, if the property is part of a condominium (where getting approval for renovations can be difficult), or if you don’t want to tie up capital for 12 to 18 months—move on. Golden rule: always request a cost estimate for the renovations before signing a preliminary sales agreement.
New EPC Requirements in 2026
- Mandatory energy audit required for the sale of single-family homes and single-owner apartment buildings rated F or G—and now E.
- Display the Energy Performance Certificate in the listing as soon as it is posted
- The audit report will be provided following the initial visit for the properties in question.
- Rental of G vehicles will be prohibited as of January 1, 2025; a ban on F vehicles is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2028.
France's energy challenge: What if diversification were the answer?
The reform reflects a fundamental trend: in Europe, the regulatory and tax burden on real estate is growing (rental bans, audits, mandatory renovations, property taxes). An increasing number of French-speaking investors are diversifying part of their assets outside the EU. A market like Dubai offers the opposite profile: a new and high-performing housing stock (no energy performance certificate requirements), no local taxes on rent or capital gains, net returns of 6% to 8%, and a clear framework for estate planning (DIFC wills) and the Golden Visa.
Diversifying does not mean abandoning France: it means rebalancing your portfolio to reduce your exposure to an increasingly restrictive regulatory environment—a decision that should be made based on your tax residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes will take effect for the DPE on January 1, 2026?
The electricity coefficient is being reduced from 2.3 to 1.9. The calculated energy consumption of electrically heated homes is decreasing by about 17%, representing an improvement of one to two energy efficiency classes; approximately 850,000 homes will no longer be classified as energy-inefficient without any renovations.
How can I check my new energy efficiency rating for free?
Owners of electric homes can check their new energy efficiency label on the ADEME website—without needing another home inspection—and update their listings.
Which types of housing will still be prohibited from being rented out in 2026?
Class G properties have been banned since January 1, 2025; Class F properties are scheduled to be banned on January 1, 2028. However, some properties no longer qualify as Class G under the new calculation method.
Should you buy a thermal colander in 2026?
Yes, if you're willing to renovate: the discount (20–25% on G-rated homes) can offset the cost of the work through government assistance. No, if the cost of the work exceeds the increase in value or if the property is part of a condominium.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized legal, tax, or financial advice. Market figures and regulations cited may change; please verify them with the sources.
official sources and consult a qualified professional before making any decisions.
Sources: Ministry of Ecological Transition, ADEME, IMOP, Trackstone, Boursorama Immobilier, France Rénov’, Service-public.fr.
