Tenant Guide to Energy Certificate in Spain
If you are a tenant or renter in Spain, understanding the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can help you estimate consumption, negotiate rent and request repairs related to habitability. This article explains in plain language what the EPC is, what information it contains, when the owner must provide it and what rights you have as a tenant when you see energy labels or ads for the dwelling. It also includes practical steps to verify the certificate's authenticity, how to document efficiency issues and which procedures to start if you find irregularities. The guide is intended for renters who want to protect their finances in renting and live in an efficient, safe home in Spain.
What is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
The EPC is an official document describing a property's energy rating and recommendations to improve efficiency. The certificate includes the rating (A to G), estimated consumption and improvement measures. If you see ads or labels on a property portal, the EPC helps compare offers and estimate energy costs.
Your rights as a tenant
- Request delivery or access to the EPC from the owner (deliver).
- Ask for documentation and keep copies as evidence (evidence).
- Request repairs if inefficiency affects habitability or consumption.
- Go to the Court of First Instance if there is a dispute over contractual obligations or eviction.
The Law of Urban Leases regulates basic tenant rights and owner obligations, including prior information in contracts and delivery of relevant documentation[1].
What to do if the label or ad seems false?
If you find inconsistencies between the advertised label and the EPC provided, document all evidence: screenshot the ad, photos of the document and communications with the owner. Good documentation makes administrative or judicial claims easier.
- Capture and save the online ad as evidence (evidence).
- Request the full EPC in writing from the owner and keep the acknowledgement.
- Contact municipal consumer services if you suspect fraud or misleading advertising.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Should the owner give me the EPC before signing the contract?
- Yes, the owner must provide information on energy efficiency; ask for the certificate before signing and keep a copy.
- Can I refuse to pay if the flat has a poor energy rating?
- Poor rating does not automatically exempt rent payment; consult the LAU and consider claims for lack of habitability if applicable.
- Who do I contact if the ad is misleading?
- You can file a complaint with municipal consumer services and, if appropriate, bring a claim in the Court of First Instance; keep all documentation.
How-To
- Request the EPC from the owner in writing and keep the communication (submit).
- Compare the ad label with the EPC received and save screenshots as proof (evidence).
- Contact local consumer services if you detect irregularities and ask about procedures.
- If needed, file a claim in the Court of First Instance or request precautionary measures with legal assistance (court).
Key Takeaways
- The EPC is a tool to compare consumption and potential costs.
- Documenting ads and communications increases the effectiveness of a claim.
Help and Support
- BOE: Consolidated text of the Law of Urban Leases
- Ministry of Justice: Citizen information and procedures
- Poder Judicial: Access to civil jurisdiction
