Energy Label now mandatory for listed buildings: What changes from 29 May 2026?
As of 29 May 2026, a new requirement applies to owners of listed residential properties: they must also provide a valid energy label when selling or renting out their property. A long-standing exemption will be abolished. What does this mean if you own a listed building?
What was the previous situation?
Owners of protected heritage properties—both nationally listed buildings and municipally listed buildings—were previously exempt from the energy label requirement. When selling or renting out a listed property, there was no obligation to provide an energy label.
This exemption was largely due to the restrictions associated with improving the energy efficiency of heritage properties. Significant insulation measures and other sustainability upgrades are often limited or prohibited because of the building’s historical and cultural value.
What changes from 29 May 2026?
From 29 May 2026, this exemption will no longer apply. Owners of listed residential properties who wish to sell or rent out their home will be required to obtain a definitive energy label. This label must be provided to the buyer or tenant.
The energy label for listed buildings is prepared by a certified energy assessor, who takes into account the property's unique characteristics and restrictions. This does not mean that listed buildings must suddenly meet the same energy performance standards as newly built homes. Rather, the label provides a realistic assessment of the building’s energy performance.
Why is this important?
Owners who are unable to provide a valid energy label when selling or renting out their property may face a fine from the Dutch government (NVWA). In addition, the absence of an energy label can delay or complicate the sales process. Buyers and tenants are legally entitled to receive this information.
Before we can market a property online—whether for sale or for rent—we must receive a valid energy label from you. This requirement has long applied to non-listed properties and, as of 29 May 2026, will also apply to listed residential buildings.
What should you do now?
If you own a listed property and are planning to sell or rent it out in the near future, we recommend taking the following steps:
Verify whether your property is designated as a listed building (national or municipal).
Engage a certified energy assessor with experience in heritage properties. We work with trusted partners who can arrange an energy label quickly and professionally.
Apply for the energy label through the assessor to ensure you have a valid label in place in time.
Advice from your real estate agent
As your real estate agent, we are happy to guide you through this process. We can connect you with certified energy assessors who are familiar with the specific requirements and challenges associated with listed buildings.
This helps ensure that there are no unexpected surprises when selling or renting out your property.
Please feel free to contact us for personal advice.