Since 2015, a registered energy label has been mandatory when selling. Labels range from A++++ (very efficient) to G (very inefficient). The label is based on insulation, heating system, ventilation and any solar panels.
The difference in heating costs between a G and A label can be up to €2,000–€3,000 per year. At current energy prices, this is a significant monthly expense.
Common improvements: roof insulation (often most effective), HR++ glazing, floor insulation, and cavity wall insulation. The ISDE scheme offers subsidies, and the National Heat Fund (Warmtefonds) provides low-interest loans.
Note: the label on Funda is sometimes outdated. Always check the registration on EP-Online (the official database) for the current label. Groundwerk does this automatically.
A strong energy label also unlocks extra borrowing room. Under the 2026 Nibud/RVO guidelines, you can borrow above your regular maximum mortgage for an energy-efficient home: up to €30,000 extra for label A++++ or higher, €25,000 for A+++, €20,000 for A++, €15,000 for A+, and €10,000 for label A. Label B or lower gets no bonus.
Note: this energy-label mortgage bonus is being scaled back from 1 January 2027 — the bonus for A+++ and A++++ drops from €25,000–€30,000 to €20,000. The solar panel net-metering scheme (salderingsregeling) also ends on 1 January 2027, which lengthens the payback period for new solar panels. If you’re planning to add solar or other upgrades, sooner is better than later.