Improving EPC or Selling As-Is: The 2026 Calculation for Belgian Homeowners

In Flanders, owners of homes with an EPC label E or F are now legally required to renovate to at least label D within five years. Similar measures are being phased in across Brussels and Wallonia, targeting energy-inefficient buildings to meet climate goals. For many owners, this means that doing nothing is no longer an option if they wish to maintain the property's market value.

This legislative pressure creates a dilemma for those who have inherited a house or are going through a divorce. The costs for insulation, heat pumps, or high-performance glazing are rising rapidly, while the time required to manage these renovations is often underestimated. For some, the financial and emotional burden of a long-term renovation project is simply too heavy during an already difficult period.

By 2026, building materials and specialized labor are expected to remain high-cost factors. A renovation from label F to D can easily cost tens of thousands of euros, depending on the state of the roof and heating systems. Owners must weigh these certain costs against the potential increase in the final selling price once the work is completed.

Property owners often find that the 'added value' created by a renovation does not always cover the 1:1 investment cost, especially in older neighborhoods. Furthermore, the risk of 'unforeseen costs' during renovation is high in older Belgian homes. This uncertainty makes a direct calculation difficult for families who need to liquidate their assets quickly to settle an estate or debt.

Selling a home in its current state, or 'as-is', provides immediate clarity and avoids the stress of managing contractors. While the selling price might reflect the necessary renovation costs, the speed of the transaction can be a significant advantage. In cases of bankruptcy or urgent relocation, the liquidity of the asset is often more important than the theoretical maximum price after a two-year renovation.

Prospective buyers on the traditional market are increasingly cautious about homes with low EPC scores because their borrowing capacity is limited by the bank's renovation requirements. This often leads to long lead times and many failed viewings. Professional buyers like Pandpartners.be specialize in these types of properties, offering a solution where the technical state of the home is accepted immediately without conditions.

When deciding whether to renovate or sell, it is crucial to look at your personal situation. If you have the capital and the time to oversee a renovation, improving the EPC can be a solid long-term investment. However, if you are dealing with a sensitive situation like a legacy or a forced sale, the peace of mind of a guaranteed sale often outweighs the potential profit of a renovation.

For those who choose not to enter the complex world of permits and subsidies, a direct sale offers an exit strategy. This allows heirs or ex-partners to close a chapter quickly and fairly. By choosing a partner who understands the local regulations in Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels, you ensure that all legal obligations regarding the EPC and renovation duty are professionally handled.