Published: May 2026 · Reading time: 5 min

Energy label for listed buildings: required from 2026

For a long time, listed buildings were exempt from the energy label requirement. That is changing: from 29 May 2026, owners of listed buildings also need a valid energy label when selling or renting their property. In this article you can read what this means for you, how to apply for a label and what to watch out for with a historic property.

What changes for listed building owners?

Until now, owners of national and municipal listed buildings did not need an energy label. With the new rules, that exception is removed. In practical terms this means:

• 🏛️ When selling your listed property, a valid energy label is required
• 🔑 When renting, you must be able to present the label to the tenant
• 📣 You are required to state the label letter in sale and rental listings

If you have no plans to sell or rent? Then you don't need to do anything right now. The requirement only applies when the property comes to market.

What exactly is an energy label?

An energy label shows with a letter and colour how energy-efficient a home is. The scale runs from G (red, least efficient) to A++++ (green, most efficient). For the assessment, the energy advisor looks at:

• The insulation of roof, facade, floor and windows
• The ventilation of the property
• The fixed installations, such as heating and hot water

For listed buildings, the label often comes out lower than for modern homes. That makes sense: thick historic walls, original window frames and single glazing are simply less insulating. A lower label is not a problem — it is a fair snapshot and you are not required to change anything.

Applying for an energy label for your listed building

A valid energy label may only be drawn up by a certified energy advisor who is authorised to register the label in EP-online (the official RVO register). The process takes a few steps:

• 1. Make an appointment — schedule a property inspection with a recognised advisor
• 2. Property inspection — the advisor visits your property (approximately 60-90 minutes)
• 3. Calculation — energy performance is calculated according to standard NTA 8800
• 4. Registration — the label is officially recorded in EP-online and is valid for 10 years

Hollands Duurzaam is BRL 9500-MWA-W certified and has extensive experience with older and listed properties throughout the Green Heart region. We handle the entire process from inspection to registration.

How does the energy advisor determine the label for a listed building?

During the inspection, the advisor carefully maps out the building characteristics of your property. Especially with a listed building, this is custom work: original details, unusual constructions and previous (often limited) sustainability measures require an experienced eye.

Do you have building plans, invoices for insulation work or documentation about the listed status? Please provide these. It helps the advisor to draw up the most accurate label possible and prevents measures from being overlooked.

Making a listed building more sustainable — what to watch out for

Sustainability improvements are not required, but many listed building owners do want to make their home more comfortable and energy-efficient. With a listed building, special rules apply because the protected character must be preserved:

• Permit — for many interventions on a listed building you need an environmental permit. Consult your municipality in advance.
• Custom insulation — think internal insulation, roof or floor insulation that does not affect the appearance.
• Heritage glass — specially thin insulating glass that fits in original window frames.
• Installations — more efficient heating or ventilation can often be installed without damaging the listed building.

With every property inspection, Hollands Duurzaam provides free personal improvement advice. This way you know which measures suit your listed building and actually have an effect — without affecting its character.

Frequently asked questions

Is an energy label required for a listed building?

Yes, from 29 May 2026 when selling or renting. Previously, listed buildings were exempt from this.

Can a listed building receive a low energy label?

Yes, and it is quite normal. Due to limited insulation possibilities, the label often comes out lower. You are not required to improve this.

Do I have to make my listed building more sustainable?

No. Only the energy label is required when selling or renting. Sustainability improvements are allowed, but require custom solutions and sometimes a permit.

How long is the energy label valid?

10 years. After that, you apply for a new label for a new sale or rental.

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