ᐅ Incorrect Energy Certificate / Energy Performance Certificate

Created on: 27 Jan 2015 10:38
O
Orschel
O
Orschel
27 Jan 2015 10:38
Hello,

I hope someone can answer my question or is familiar with this topic. Our house construction is now completed, and at the end of the project, we received all the documents again from our architect. I noticed that the energy certificate, or energy performance report, was incorrectly prepared. For example, it mentions a ventilation system that we do not have...

The certificate was issued by our architect. What would happen in case of a sale, or could we face any problems? Who is responsible for the accuracy of the certificate?
W
Wastl
27 Jan 2015 17:19
You need to have a new, valid energy performance certificate issued when selling the house.
If KfW funds were applied for, incorrect information was provided, which has legal consequences. In that case, I would contact the architect as soon as possible.
In principle, if it is agreed in the contract, you can insist on the issuance of a correct energy performance certificate. You must report this defect in writing to the architect and demand rectification.
O
Orschel
27 Jan 2015 17:27
No, we have not applied for KfW funds. So the issue would only arise if we ever decided to sell the house (which is not planned).
If I now report this apparent defect in the ventilation system and receive an updated certificate that is still incorrect (which I cannot verify as a layperson), then wouldn’t the signatory issuer be held liable, or would I as the homeowner be responsible?
W
Wastl
27 Jan 2015 17:35
What do you mean by "dran"? I am not a lawyer, but as I understand it:
If you are aware of a defect, you have to disclose it; otherwise, it could be considered (fraudulent) misrepresentation. If you do not know that the certificate is incorrect, why should you be held liable? In that case, you could shift the responsibility to the architect, as they sign off on the accuracy of the energy performance certificate.
O
Orschel
27 Jan 2015 17:44
That’s true... In that sense, you are of course right, and the exhibitor is responsible for the things they mess up. I will address the other matter again anyway...
Thank you very much!