An Energy Performance Certificate in Portugal remains a legal requirement if a property is to be sold or rented. Find out how the system works, who needs a certificate, and what it typically costs.
What is an Energy Performance Certificate in Portugal?
An EPC, known in Portugal as certificado energético, is an official document that rates the energy performance of a building or independent unit.
- Evaluates a property’s energy efficiency on a scale from A+ (most efficient) to F (least efficient)
- Is issued exclusively by qualified experts recognised and accredited by ADENE
- Includes recommendations on how to improve the property’s performance, such as insulation, windows, heating and cooling systems, or hot water solutions
When is an energy certificate compulsory?
An EPC is required for both new and existing buildings when they are advertised for sale or rent.
- The energy class must be included in property advertisements, whether advertised privately or via an agency
- A valid EPC must be made available to prospective buyers and tenants and delivered to the buyer or tenant at the conclusion of the transaction
Some exemptions can apply (for example, certain small rural buildings, industrial sites, or listed historical buildings under specific conditions), but most standard homes on the market require an energy certificate.
How to get an Energy Performance Certificate in Portugal
Obtaining an EPC is a relatively straightforward process, but it must be done through an accredited professional.
Find a qualified expert
Only experts accredited under ADENE's Sistema de Certificação Energética dos Edifícios (SCE) can issue valid certificates.
Owners can search for these experts via ADENE’s official channels or work through their estate agent, who will often have regular partners.
Request a quote
The overall cost has two components:
- Fixed ADENE registration and issuing fee, which depends on the type and size of the property
- Professional fees charged by the expert, which vary according to size and typology (T0/T1, T2–T3, T4+, etc.)
Schedule the property inspection
Once an expert is chosen, a site visit is arranged. The expert inspects construction elements, heating and cooling systems, hot water systems, and any renewable energy installations.
Prepare documents and technical information
Before the visit, it helps to gather as much information as possible about the property, such as:
- Latest floor plans or project drawings
- The urban property tax document (caderneta predial urbana)
- The land registry certificate (certidão do registo predial)
- Any technical file (ficha técnica de habitação for newer properties), including construction materials, insulation details, window specifications, and system manuals
Review the draft certificate
After the visit, the expert enters all data into the ADENE system and produces a draft certificate. This includes the energy class (A+ to F), estimated annual energy needs and recommended measures to improve the rating.
Receive the official EPC
Once validated in ADENE’s system, the EPC is issued in digital format with a unique registration code. The certificate is typically valid for 10 years, unless major renovation or system changes justify issuing a new one sooner
How much does an Energy Performance Certificate cost in Portugal?
The total cost of an Energy Performance Certificate in Portugal in 2026 is made up of a fixed registration fee on the SCE/ADENE portal and the professional fee charged by the accredited expert who assesses the property.
For residential properties, the registration fee varies according to the type and size of the dwelling:
- €28.00 – T0 and T1 apartment types
- €40.50 – T2 and T3 apartment types
- €55.00 – T4 and T5 apartment types
- €65.00 – T6 or higher
The expert’s own fee can range from around €120–€300 in many urban areas, with higher prices for larger or more complex homes. Prices in high-demand coastal zones or more remote rural areas can be higher due to travel costs and local market conditions.
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