ECD 2025: Major changes
The year 2025 marks a decisive turning point for the French property market in terms of the DPE.
Table of contents
DPE 2025 reform: at last a fairer calculation for small areas
Revision of the ECD, which came into full effect in January 2025, continues to correct an historic injustice:
Studios and T1s were heavily penalised by the old calculation method.
From now on, housing less than 40 m² in size benefit from a technical adjustment to take better account of :
the reduced surface area,
limited thermal capacity,
the reality of their consumption.
✔ Many studios are finally moving out of the F or G category
✔ No more rental bans for a majority of them
✔ An immediate increase in asset value
Changes in ECD regulations
Fraudulent energy performance diagnostics: the courts will be even tougher in 2025
In 2025, case law was further strengthened.
Several courts have ruled against sellers who submitted an Energy Diagnostic inaccurate or complacent, holding the dol (fraud) and sometimes total cancellation of the sale.
What the law and judges will be saying in 2025
According to the articles 1137 et seq. of the Civil Code, In addition to the above, any attempt to mislead the purchaser regarding an essential element (including the DPE) constitutes fraud.
Risks :
Cancellation of the sale
Return of the prize
Damages and interest
Criminal proceedings in cases of proven falsification
A clear message for 2025:
The reliability of the ECD is non-negotiable.
The role of the DPE once again confirmed by the Court of Cassation: an information document
In 2025, the Court of Cassation reminded us once again that the ECD is an information document, intended to enlighten the purchaser, but not a guarantee of future energy performance.
This means that :
✔ The diagnostician informs, but does not guarantee
✔ The ECD rating does not prejudge future actual consumption
✔ The purchaser must consider the overall condition of the property and its equipment
For homeowners in 2025 :
- A serious, transparent environmental impact assessment avoids disputes
- Support from a trusted professional is essential
2025 Energy Audit: essential for F and G rated properties
Since 2023, the’energy audit is required to sell a property classified F or G.
Visit 2025, Its role is now central with :
✔ a definitive ban on renting out classified accommodation G,
✔ preparing for the ban on classified accommodation. F in 2028.
Auditing has become the key to :
release financial aid (MaPrimeRénov’, CEE...)
adding value to an energy-intensive property
reassure buyers and investors
In 2025: The energy audit is no longer an option: it's a strategic tool for selling..
🤝 Amanda Properties supports you in the regulation and management of the Energy Performance Diagnosis
At Amanda Properties, We support our customers in :
✔ reading the ECD,
✔ the valuation of the property,
✔ preparation for a compliant sale,
✔ integration of the energy audit,
✔ and the legal security of each transaction.
📞 Contact us to find out more and help you buy or sell in 2025 with peace of mind, transparency and efficiency. We'll answer all your questions.
What are the main changes to the ECD in 2025?
In 2025, the DPE will benefit from a new calculation method that is more favourable to small areas (less than 40 m²), a stronger legal framework against fraudulent diagnoses, and greater importance in the sale or letting of properties classified as F or G. The energy audit will also become central for energy-intensive homes.
Why will the ECD for studios and T1s improve from 2025?
The reform corrects a technical bias against small areas: their thermal characteristics and actual consumption were poorly represented. The 2025 recalculation provides a more accurate assessment, often leading to an automatic improvement in the score.
Can a G-rated property still be rented in 2025?
No. From 1 January 2025, homes classified as G according to the ECD are totally not for hire. This measure is part of the Climate and Resilience Act, which aims to reduce the number of «energy flats».
What about F-rated homes?
Listed homes F can still be rented in 2025, but they will gradually be banned from rental by 2028. Homeowners should anticipate this deadline by carrying out an energy audit and undertaking the necessary work.
Does the DPE make the diagnostician liable?
No, La Court of Cassation pointed out that the ECD is a information document, not a guarantee. The diagnostician is responsible for the accuracy of his methodology but does not guarantee the future performance of the home.
Can a seller be prosecuted for a falsified DPE?
Yes. In 2025, jurisprudence tightened the penalties: a seller presenting a deliberately erroneous DPE can be sentenced for dol (fraud). This may result in the cancellation of the sale and damages.
When is an energy audit compulsory?
Since 2023 and continuing until 2025, the energy audit has been mandatory for all sales of classified accommodation F or G. It is essential for identifying the work that needs to be done, accessing financial aid and enhancing the value of the property.
Does the energy audit replace the DPE?
No.
The DPE remains mandatory for all sales and rentals.
The energy audit is complementary and only required for very energy-intensive properties (F and G).
How can I improve my home's EPD rating?
The main levers include :
thermal insulation,
changing the heating system,
replacement of windows,
ventilation,
efficient overall renovation.
A diagnosis or audit can be used to prioritise work.
Why is the ECD 2025 essential in a property transaction?
Because it influences :
the possibility of renting,
the value of the property,
the confidence of buyers,
access to assistance,
and the projection of the work.
The ECD is becoming a genuine decision criterion, as well as location and surface area.
Can a buyer renegotiate the price because of the ECD?
Yes. A poor ranking can justify renegotiation, This is particularly true if work is required to bring the property up to rental standards or improve energy efficiency.
