Association: Energy labels for older buildings are unnecessary

Prague - According to the Czech Association of Real Estate Agencies, it is nonsensical to issue energy performance certificates (PENB) for old buildings; this obligation should apply to buildings younger than ten years. Jan Borůvka, the association's general secretary, stated this to ČTK.
        "We consider the obligation for property owners to prepare the so-called energy label for older buildings to be the most serious objection to the amendment to the Energy Management Act effective from January 1 of this year," noted Borůvka. He added that he understands the legislative measures aimed at reducing the energy intensity of buildings.
            The association proposes to draw inspiration from some other EU countries where similar regulations also apply. "The obligation to prepare the energy performance certificate, the values of which would reflect in the so-called energy label, could thus only apply to buildings up to a specified age, such as ten years. This obligation would not then apply to all older buildings," suggests the association representing Czech real estate agencies.
          Energy labels have been mandatory since January 1 for all new buildings or during renovations and sales of apartments. Builders, building owners, or homeowners' associations are responsible for ensuring them. In the case of renting parts of buildings, the new obligation will apply from 2016. Existing buildings are to obtain labels gradually from 2015 to 2019, according to timelines determined by the law.