Multi-unit residential building
The requirement applies where the planning application was filed before 1 January 2013, including buildings under single ownership.
Multi-unit building · planning application before 2013
A building-wide DPE helps owners make decisions together
Give owners a shared view of the building's energy performance and a basis for discussing improvements.
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- Scope
- The whole building
- Deadline
- All sizes from 2026
- Renewal
- 10 years, except ratings A to C
WHEN A DPE IS REQUIRED
What applies to your property
Small co-owned building
In mainland France, the requirement extended to co-owned properties with up to 50 units on 1 January 2026. Smaller properties are now covered.
CHECK THE EXEMPTIONS
Scope and renewal
- Planning application filed from 2013 onwards
- These buildings are outside this schedule for mandatory building-wide DPEs. Check which other energy obligations apply.
- A, B or C rating after July 2021
- A building-wide DPE issued after 1 July 2021 with one of these ratings is exempt from 10-year renewal.
KEEP YOUR REPORT HANDY
Can you still use your report?
10 years. A report issued after 1 July 2021 with an A, B or C rating does not have to be renewed.
This assessment is separate from a flat's individual DPE and from an energy audit.
How to prepare for your visit
Gather before the visit
- Building plans, floor areas and technical documents.
- Communal heating data and invoices for completed works.
- Access arrangements with the managing agent and occupants.
During the visit
We collect records from the managing agent, visit communal areas and dwellings as required by the assessment procedure, then prepare the report.
When you receive the report
Check the conclusions, the scope and limitations of the assessment, and any next steps. Keep the whole report, including its appendices.
Plan access in advance
A single contact at the managing agent and agreed times with occupants make it easier to collect the necessary data.
The legal framework,
explained.
Official sourcesLégifrance · French public services
LEGISLATION · LÉGIFRANCE
French Construction and Housing Code · Article L.126-31Read the official guidance (opens in a new tab)
What this means for youSets out the assessment requirement and frequency for qualifying multi-unit buildings.
LEGISLATION · LÉGIFRANCE
French Construction and Housing Code · Articles R.126-16 to R.126-20Read the official guidance (opens in a new tab)
What this means for youSpecify what the assessment covers, how it is carried out and its validity.
PRACTICAL ANSWERS
FAQ
What you may want to know before the appointment
Our building has individual heating. Is it covered?
Yes. The requirement depends on the multi-unit building and when its planning application was filed, rather than the heating arrangement alone.
Does the report determine what work must be done?
The report informs owners. Decisions about works, costs and voting follow the property's co-ownership rules.
Who arranges access to communal areas?
The managing agent or co-owners' representative coordinates access with the assessor. Plan ahead for plant rooms and records for communal equipment.
Which works should the managing agent tell you about?
Work on the building fabric, ventilation or equipment, with any available records. Distinguish completed works from projects that have been approved but not started.
Do we need to arrange access to individual homes?
Yes. Arrange access and gather available records with the managing agent before the visit.
Unsure about
your property?
If a report is difficult to follow, give us a call and we'll talk it through.
06 80 35 31 84