Common mistakes ·
The 7 mistakes that cost you letters on your PEB certificate
On site, a large share of disappointing labels has nothing to do with the actual quality of the home: it stems from missing evidence or poorly transmitted information. The PEB method imposes pessimistic default values as soon as a feature is not documented. Here are the seven cases we encounter most often.
1. Not being able to find insulation invoices
This is the costliest mistake. A roof insulated in 2015 without an invoice is recorded as uninsulated. The owner loses one or two letters for a document that a simple call to the contractor can often retrieve.
2. Confusing a quote, an invoice and a technical data sheet
A quote does not prove that the work was carried out. What matters is a detailed invoice stating the material and thickness, ideally supplemented by the product's technical data sheet.
3. Forgetting annexes and conservatories
A heated conservatory falls within the protected volume and weighs heavily on the result if it is poorly insulated. An unheated annexe, on the contrary, must be clearly identified so as not to unnecessarily degrade the result. This delimitation is done on site, not over the phone.
4. Making the attic or cellar inaccessible
If the certifier cannot observe the insulation, they cannot record it. Clearing the attic hatch and access to the technical room before the visit is part of the most cost-effective preparation.
5. Not declaring solar panels or the heat pump
These installations significantly reduce primary energy consumption, but only if their power and type are substantiated. The installation certificate and technical data sheet are enough.
6. Ordering the certificate too late
The label must appear in the listing. Ordering the certificate after publication puts the owner in breach and delays the listing going live. Allow 2 to 5 days for the appointment and 24 to 48 hours for the document.
7. Comparing certifiers on price alone
A very low price often comes with a rushed survey, and therefore default values. The real criterion is the all-inclusive rate and the time devoted to the visit and to analysing the file.
Key takeaways
- Gather the evidence before the visit: it is the most cost-effective step.
- A detailed invoice showing insulation thickness beats a quote.
- Make the attic, cellar and technical room accessible.
- Order the certificate before publishing the listing.
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