top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Energy certificate rules could see house prices fall in France

The Paris market is most likely to be hit by new regulations, which might see landlords selling on properties with low ratings rather than trying to improve them

The Fédération nationale de l’immobilier (FNAIM) is predicting a fall of between 15% and 20% in the number of property transactions in 2022 Pic: iJeab / Shutterstock

New calculations for property energy certificates which came into force last year could soon start to hit prices, especially property bought to rent, according to experts.

The Fédération nationale de l’immobilier (FNAIM) is predicting a fall of between 15% and 20% in the number of property transactions in 2022 after last year’s record 1.18 million houses and flats sold.

So far, the drop has been due to fewer properties on the market, so prices have remained high. Other factors, such as increased costs for building materials for new houses, and the fact that investing in property is traditionally a good refuge investment in inflationary times, also point to prices staying buoyant.

A big unknown, however, is the effect of the diagnostic de performance énergétique (DPE) energy efficiency rating, according to FNAIM president Jean-Marc Torrollion. 

He said government plans to progressively stop landlords of properties with G (from 2025), F (from 2028) and E energy certificates will see owners try to sell properties, rather than improve their rating.

The cost of any work will be communicated to buyers, and he believes this will lead to lower prices, perhaps by the end of the year.

Paris is likely to be particularly hard hit, as many of the Haussmann-style buildings, built out of stone with little insulation and often with single-glazed windows, fall into lower energy ratings.

A survey by property specialist PriceHubble, commissioned for Le Figaro, showed 33% of Paris flats have, or will have, DPE ratings so low that they will have to leave the rental market under the new rules.

Housing Minister Emmanuelle Wargon welcomed signs that these flats were being sold quicker than others, often at lower prices, anticipating new owners will spend money improving ratings before moving in.

Related stories:

French scam alert: False TotalEnergies petrol ‘loyalty card’ deal

Home energy rating problems and three other French property updates

How do I set a fair price on my French house that I want to sell?

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France