Why does the French property I’m buying not have a DPE diagnostic?

A DPE diagnostic report provides an indication of a property's energy efficiency, as well as its associated heating and upgrade costs.

If you are looking to buy a restoration project, you may find that the property has no heating system or only a fireplace. In this case, the seller may not have provided you with a DPE report. 

Unlike in the UK, it is the seller's responsibility to provide the buyer with the report. If the seller is selling an old building with poor insulation, it may be more cost-effective for them to remove the old radiators. If the property has no heating system, the seller will not incur the expense of carrying out an energy audit and assessment. 

Since March 2024, a diagnostic energy performance certificate (DPE) has not been required to obtain a French government grant, 'MaPrimeRénov', which helps with minor work to improve your home's energy efficiency. However, a DPE is required for the major renovation grant. 

Please note that, from 1 January 2027, the DPE will be mandatory for all grants.

If you are considering applying for a grant, please bear in mind that the current annual limit is 13,000 applications.

If you require advice on succession planning for French assets or conveyancing, our dedicated Cross-Border Team, specialising in French law, is on hand to help.