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The DPE energy label, explained
The DPE (diagnostic de performance énergétique) is the official energy label of a French home. It tells you how much energy the home uses and how much greenhouse gas it produces.
Why it matters to you
- Every home for sale or rent must have a DPE, and the letter must be shown in the advert.
- Homes rated F or G usually have poor insulation and expensive heating.
- Poorly rated homes are gradually being banned from new rentals, so the label matters if you want to rent out.
- A DPE is valid for 10 years, but older DPEs made before July 2021 are no longer valid.
The scale from A to G
The figure is the yearly energy use in kWh per m². The letter is decided by the worse of two scores: energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
- A70 or lessVery efficient
- B71 – 110Efficient
- C111 – 180Good
- D181 – 250Average
- E251 – 330Poor
- F331 – 420Very poor
- Gmore than 420Extremely poor
Homes rated F or G are often called "passoires thermiques" (energy sieves).
Energy audit before a sale
When a house (or a building with a single owner) is rated E, F or G, the seller must also provide an energy audit (audit énergétique). It is a more detailed study that proposes a step-by-step works plan with estimated costs to reach a better rating.
This does not apply to an apartment in a copropriété (a building shared by several owners). For those, ask about the building's planned works instead.
The rules on DPE, energy audits and rental bans change regularly. Always check the current rules with your notaire or estate agent before you sign. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Want an expert to read the diagnostics?
A French real estate specialist personally reviews the address: cadastral plan, risk plans, sun study, price check, yearly costs and a written summary with advice on next steps. The Complete review adds the diagnostics, contact with the mairie (town hall) and answers to your own questions.
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