Energy label required when selling and renting: rules and fines (2026)
Are you going to sell or rent out a property? Then you are legally required to have a valid energy label. No label means a fine of up to € 1,030. In this article you can read exactly when an energy label is required, what exceptions exist, how high the fines are and what changes from 29 May 2026.
When is an energy label required?
A valid energy label is required in the Netherlands at three moments:
- 🏠 When selling — you must be able to present a valid, definitive energy label at the transfer before the notary. The notary checks this.
- 🔑 When renting — you must be able to present the label to the tenant when entering into a new rental contract.
- 🏗️ On completion of new construction — a newly completed home receives an energy label.
In addition, you are required to state the label letter in sale and rental listings, for example on Funda or Pararius. Offering a property without stating the label can already lead to enforcement.
How high is the fine without an energy label?
Do you not have a valid energy label when selling or renting? Then the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) can impose a fine:
- Private individuals: up to € 515
- Business sellers and landlords: up to € 1,030
For comparison: an official energy label costs from € 220 at Hollands Duurzaam. Applying for a label in time is therefore not only required, but simply cheaper than the risk of a fine — and you avoid delays in the sale or rental.
What changes from 29 May 2026?
From 29 May 2026, new rules apply around the energy label. The most important changes:
- New label design — the energy label now shows more information about insulation, installations, CO₂ emissions and concrete sustainability options.
- Listed buildings no longer exempt — owners of national and municipal listed buildings now also need an energy label when selling or renting. Read more about the energy label for listed buildings →
- More enforcement by municipalities — municipalities get broader powers to check the label requirement and act on violations.
Important: labels issued before 29 May 2026 remain valid for the remaining ten-year term. You do not need to apply for a new label as long as your current label is still valid.
Are there exceptions to the energy label requirement?
For most homes the requirement applies in full, but there are a few exceptions. An energy label is usually not required for:
- Temporary structures with a usage period of no more than two years
- Detached buildings with a usable floor area of less than 50 m²
- Unheated or barely heated buildings (such as some industrial halls and barns)
- Holiday homes used only part of the year
Not sure whether your situation falls under an exception? Just contact us — we are happy to think along with you.
Energy label required for estate agents and landlords
Do you sell or rent out properties professionally, for example as an estate agent or property manager? Then it pays to arrange the energy label early in the process. This avoids delays at the transfer and lets you include the label letter directly in the listing. Moreover, the higher fine of € 1,030 applies to business parties.
Hollands Duurzaam works with various estate agents and landlords in the Green Heart region. We inspect properties quickly and deliver the label reliably, so you can focus on the sale or rental. View our partnership options →
Frequently asked questions
Is an energy label required when selling?
Yes. At the transfer before the notary you must be able to present a valid, definitive energy label. Without a valid label you risk a fine.
Is an energy label required when renting?
Yes. When renting out, you must be able to present the label to the tenant and state the label letter in the listing.
Does the requirement also apply when extending a rental contract?
The label requirement mainly applies when entering into a new rental contract. A tenant may always request the label, so it is wise to have one.
How long is an energy label valid?
10 years. After that, you apply for a new label for a new sale or rental.
How quickly can I get an energy label?
At Hollands Duurzaam usually within a few working days after the property inspection. Express service within 24 hours is possible at an additional cost.
Need an energy label?
Avoid a fine and arrange your energy label in time. At Hollands Duurzaam you pay from € 220 for an official energy label including free improvement advice. We are BRL 9500-MWA-W certified, member of AVEPA and registered in EP-online.