EPC class G - extremely inefficient
The worst EPC class. Agents must also state it when they have not received the certificate, so it may not reflect the building's real consumption.
Class G - extremely inefficient is the last step of the energy performance scale in Decree No. 264/2020 Coll. It covers buildings whose indicator exceeds the upper limit of class F. For non-renewable primary energy, the figure used in listings, that limit is 3.7 times the value of the reference building.
Two possible meanings in a listing
A class G in a Czech listing can mean two different things. Either an energy performance certificate exists and the building really came out as extremely inefficient, or the agent did not receive the graphic part of the certificate from the seller. In that case Act No. 406/2000 Coll. requires the agent to show the worst class in listings and marketing materials. So G does not necessarily describe the actual condition of the house or flat.
When the agent does receive the graphic part, they state the class from it and keep the certificate for 3 years. A flat owner whose owners' association did not provide the certificate after a written request may use electricity, gas and heat bills for the last 3 years instead.
What to do when buying
- Ask whether a certificate exists and request it. The seller must present it before the contract is concluded and hand it over at the latest when the purchase contract is signed.
- Check the issue date: a certificate is valid for 10 years, or until a major change to the building or a change of heating system.
- If the building really is class G, go through the recommended improvement measures included in the certificate and get quotes for insulation, new windows or a new heat source.
Frequently asked questions
Does every building need a certificate?
No. Exemptions include buildings with a total energy reference area under 50 m², listed monuments, buildings in a heritage reserve and holiday homes used only part of the year with low consumption. For buildings constructed and last substantially altered before 1 January 1947, the parties can agree in writing that no certificate is needed.
Is class G a reason not to buy?
Not in itself, but it is a reason to find out why. The class comes from a calculation for typical use; actual energy bills from recent years show real costs better. The type of heating also affects the class, so a different heat source alone can change the result.
Want this information on your property's website?
We find, analyse and clearly present data about the place. On the website for clients and in the location check for the agent - depending on the nature of the information.
The explanation is general and informative, not legal advice. Binding are the land register, the zoning plan and other official sources.