Mandatory EPC NR certification in Flanders from 2025: What owners of large properties need to know
- Lundrim Meshi
- Jul 5
- 4 min read
A decisive step for energy efficiency in non-residential buildings
The Flemish region is firmly committed to achieving carbon neutrality, introducing increasingly strict regulations to improve the energy performance of buildings. After targeting the residential sector, it’s now the turn of the non-residential real estate market (offices, shops, logistics sites, hotels, etc.).
Starting January 1, 2025, the EPC NR certification (Energy Performance Certificate for Non-Residential Buildings) will become mandatory for all large units with a usable floor area of 1,000 m² or more. This marks a gradual but firm shift, requiring many property owners to reassess the efficiency of their assets.
Why is the EPC NR certification being implemented ?
The goal of the EPC NR certificate is twofold:
To inform owners, investors, buyers and tenants about the energy quality of the buildings they occupy or acquire.
To drive renovations, reducing energy consumption in line with European and Flemish climate targets.
In practice, the EPC NR assigns an energy label to a building, summarising its performance. It’s a tool that will gradually steer the market toward better-insulated properties equipped with more efficient, low-carbon systems.
The key dates to remember in Flanders
Since 2023
The EPC NR certificate has already been required when:
Selling non-residential units (including transfers of rights like superficies or long lease),
or signing new rental agreements.
This ensures any new owner or occupant is immediately informed.
From January 1, 2025
All non-residential units with a usable floor area of at least 1,000 m² must have a valid EPC NR certificate, even if there is no change of ownership or tenant. This is a major milestone, introducing a broad structural obligation.
From January 1, 2026
A year later, this obligation will extend to smaller non-residential buildings, under 1,000 m². Thus, the entire non-residential real estate market will progressively be covered.
From 2028 and 2030
Starting in 2028, large public buildings (administrative and collective infrastructures) must not only have an EPC NR certificate but also achieve at least an energy label “E”. Since 2024, these buildings are already required to hold an EPC NR, replacing the old EPC Public.
From January 1, 2030, all non-residential buildings, regardless of size, must reach at least an “E” label. Simply possessing a certificate will no longer suffice; owners must prove their building’s effective performance.
What does this mean for property owners and investors ?
These developments mark a decisive moment for the real estate market in Flanders, offering both opportunities and significant challenges.
Many buildings will require renovations to achieve an acceptable energy label: upgrading roof and façade insulation, installing more efficient HVAC systems, switching to LED lighting or adding photovoltaic panels are often unavoidable.
Owners who plan ahead can spread their investments over time, avoid last-minute rush projects in 2029, and keep control of costs. For investors, a poor energy score may deter tenants or lower resale value. Conversely, strong energy performance can become a powerful selling point and help maximise the property’s long-term value.
Practical recommendations to prepare
To stay compliant and competitive, property owners and real estate managers are strongly advised to:
Conduct a detailed energy audit to pinpoint the most energy-intensive elements and prioritise improvements.
Create a multi-year renovation plan, scheduling works based on available budgets and technical opportunities.
Explore regional grants and incentives in Flanders, which can significantly reduce initial investment (such as the Fluvius EBP for non-residential buildings).
Raise awareness among tenants and users, since a portion of energy savings also depends on daily behaviour (heating settings, ventilation, lighting practices).
The bottom line
The EPC NR certification is a key instrument pushing the non-residential building stock toward standards aligned with climate goals. Starting in 2025, large surfaces over 1,000 m² in Flanders will be directly impacted, followed by a gradual extension to the entire sector.
From 2030, achieving at least an “E” label will be mandatory for all non-residential buildings. Preparing now ensures owners can protect their asset values, control costs, and actively contribute to the vital energy transition.
FAQ about EPC NR certification in Flanders
What is the EPC NR certification in Flanders ?
The EPC NR (Energy Performance Certificate for Non-Residential Buildings) assesses the energy performance of non-residential buildings in Flanders. It informs owners, investors and tenants about energy efficiency levels and encourages upgrades to reduce consumption and emissions.
When does the EPC NR become mandatory for large surfaces ?
Starting January 1, 2025, all non-residential buildings in Flanders with a usable floor area of 1,000 m² or more must have a valid EPC NR certificate.
What are the next deadlines for smaller buildings ?
From January 1, 2026, the requirement will also apply to non-residential buildings under 1,000 m². From 2030, all such buildings must achieve at least an energy label “E”.
What are the risks of non-compliance ?
Beyond possible administrative penalties, a building without a certificate or with an insufficient label may lose market value or deter buyers and tenants who care about energy efficiency.
How can property owners prepare ?
They can commission an energy audit to identify priorities, plan the necessary renovations, take advantage of regional grants, and work with tenants to optimise building use and reduce waste.
