DPE (Energy Performance Certificate) in Bordeaux

When is a DPE required?

A DPE is mandatory for every sale and every letting, except in cases set out in the regulations. The rating must appear in the advert, and the full report goes into the technical survey file or the tenancy agreement.

When selling a detached house or a building in single ownership rated E, F or G, an energy audit is also required. See our dedicated energy audit page for details.

What we record during the visit

The surveyor measures floor areas and records how walls, floors and roofs are built, along with any visible insulation. They note the type and condition of windows, the orientation of the home and identifiable thermal bridges.

They identify the equipment: heating, hot water, ventilation and any air conditioning. Your invoices for insulation, window or heating works help account for elements that cannot be seen. The report shows the energy rating, the climate rating and recommended improvements.

How long is a DPE valid?

A DPE is valid for 10 years. Watch out for older reports: DPEs issued between 2013 and 2017 have no longer been valid since 1 January 2023. Those issued between 1 January 2018 and 30 June 2021 have no longer been valid since 1 January 2025.

If your DPE predates July 2021, you will need a new one to sell or let. A DPE issued on or after 1 July 2021 remains valid for 10 years from its date.

Ratings and lettings: the timetable

Since 1 January 2025, homes rated G can no longer be offered for rent. Homes rated F will follow from 2028, then homes rated E from 2034.

Rents on homes rated F and G are frozen: no increase on reletting, at the annual review or on renewal of the tenancy. An accurate DPE tells you where your home stands and which works would move it up a band.

Bordeaux and Gironde buildings and the DPE

Bordeaux échoppes and stone buildings in the Chartrons, La Bastide or Caudéran have thick but rarely insulated walls, high ceilings and old joinery. Houses from the 1950s to the 1990s in Mérignac, Pessac, Talence and Bègles raise other issues: lofts, single glazing, ageing electric heating.

Right-bank housing, villas around the Basin, timber houses and holiday homes in the Médoc, in Lacanau or Carcans, and wine estate buildings each have their own features. Our surveyors are Qualixpert-certified and insured. Free quote within 24 hours on +33 6 98 13 41 53, visit within 24/48 hours, report within 48 hours.