Energy audit: understand, compare and decide
An energy audit evaluates the performance of a home or building, analyses energy consumption, and provides renovation scenarios for works. The goal: improve thermal efficiency, the energy class and plan a smart renovation.
Why do an energy audit?
For an owner, an audit provides clear information: the condition of the systems, analysis of equipment, a thermal assessment, and recommended actions. It is also useful for a sale and to better understand your EPC rating (French DPE) and energy class.
Context and goal
Primary intent: informational. This page explains the energy audit, its steps, typical costs and the relevant regulatory obligations.
- Define the energy audit and how it differs from an EPC (French DPE).
- Explain its importance for condominiums and multi-unit buildings.
- Describe the process: site visit, data collection, analysis, calculations, scenarios.
- Give benchmarks for pricing, estimation and possible support (MaPrimeRénov’ depending on eligibility).
Definition: energy audit vs EPC (DPE)
The EPC (France: DPE) assigns an energy class and provides standardized information. The audit goes further: detailed diagnosis, thermal studies, renovation scenarios, cost estimates and prioritization of actions.
The steps of an energy audit
A clear process led by a qualified and appropriately certified auditor depending on the context.
1) Information gathering
Measurements, documents, property condition, usage habits, bills, and key characteristics.
2) Site visit
Inspection of the building/condominium, verification of systems and equipment.
3) Calculations & analysis
Thermal study, energy balance, scenario consistency and expected gains estimation.
4) Report & certificate
Delivery of the report, recommendations, renovation scenarios and prioritized actions.
Legal obligations & regulatory framework
Depending on the law and the property’s energy condition, an audit can be mandatory for certain buildings, especially for condominiums or in specific sale contexts. The regulatory framework sets criteria, scope and required report content.
- Useful to anticipate obligations and improve the energy class.
- Better decisions for planning energy renovation works.
- Reduced costs through planning and prioritizing actions.
Costs, support schemes & MaPrimeRénov’
Costs vary depending on property type (house/building), size, systems and study complexity. Some support schemes may apply depending on your situation and your renovation plan.
Tip: a reliable estimate requires basic information (property type, systems, size and objectives).
FAQ – Energy audit
Clear answers to the most common questions.
What is an energy audit?
An in-depth assessment with analysis, calculations and renovation scenarios to improve energy performance.
Audit vs EPC: what’s the difference?
The EPC classifies the property; the audit proposes a detailed renovation plan (actions, costs, gains).
Why for condominiums?
To assess the building’s energy condition, prioritize works and comply with the regulatory framework.
How much does it cost?
It depends on building type, equipment, size and study scope. A quote provides a clear estimate.