Brussels Goes Green (Part II) - Minimum EPB score and renovation obligations

On 23 February 2024, the Brussels Parliament approved a draft ordinance amending the ordinance of 2 May 2013 containing the Brussels Air, Climate and Energy Management Code in order to implement the so-called Renolution-strategy. Key in this ordinance are the new EPB requirements and the minimum EPB score to be obtained for residential units, which may result in renovation obligations. Fines will be imposed in case of non-compliance.

In this alert our real estate experts describe the new obligations under this ordinance. 

Key highlights include:

  • An overview of the mandatory EPB requirements and the minimum EPB scores that need to be achieved.
  • A discussion on who is responsible for meeting these requirements and the legal implications for co-owners' associations.
  • Insights into the exceptions provided for protected heritage buildings and the invocation of force majeure.
  • The sanctions for non-compliance, including a detailed fine structure that aims to encourage timely renovations.
  • Additional rules such as the upcoming prohibition of fossil fuel-fired heating appliances.