17 November 2020
A sustainable mortgage in the Netherlands
Egle Kemezyte
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An Energy-Efficient Mortgage (EeMap) or sustainable mortgage encourages borrowers to improve their existing homes or invest in sustainable homes. The initiative for green mortgages is backed by the European Union.

The Paris Agreement played an essential role in making mortgages greener. The aim is to lower energy costs and reduce greenhouse emissions by 2050. More than 30 financial institutions joined the initiative in the EU.

Benefits of a sustainable mortgage in the Netherlands

1. Help the environment by reducing greenhouse emissions.
2. Your property has a higher property value.
3. You can sell your property quicker.
4. Lower your utility bills.

If you plan to purchase an energy-efficient home, you can get a discount on your mortgage interest rate in the Netherlands. The interest rate for sustainable homes is lower comparing with regular mortgages. You can get a 100% loan to value (LtV). If you plan to make your home more energy-efficient, you can borrow up to 106%.

What are some examples of making your home more sustainable?

1. Solar panels generate 100% sustainable energy.
2. Cavity wall insulation reduces heat loss.
3. Floor insulation.
4. Roof insulation.
5. Glass insulation.
6. Heat pumps.

Energy labels in the Netherlands

When you buy a house in the Netherlands, the property must have an energy label certificate. The same rule applies if you plan to sell the property, you are obligated to handover an energy label certificate to the buyer. Energy labels rate from A to G.

Homes with an A-label are the most energy-efficient, homes with a G-label are the least energy-efficient. More than half of the Netherlands’ houses have an energy label of D to G. The goal is to upgrade the energy labels and make them more efficient. If you purchase a house with an energy rate below A, you should keep in mind that you must invest money to upgrade it one day.

What’s do energy labels mean?

A deficient energy consumption
B low energy consumption
C relatively low energy consumption
D average energy consumption
E relatively high energy consumption
F high energy consumption
G very high energy consumption

Discounts from mortgage lenders on sustainable homes

Mortgage lenders aim to promote sustainable living by offering a discounted interest rate. The government seeks to promote energy-efficient homes and encourage landlords to improve energy performance at rental properties.

Energy label requirements in the Netherlands 2021

The energy label requirements are changing from next year. Energy labels in Dutch households become more accurate from 2021. Homeowners who plan to rent or sell their homes are required to have an energy label. 

How does it work? 

If you own a home and want to know your energy label, you can apply online by submitting your home specifications. TIP: apply online before January 1, 2021. The application process and pricing will change and become more expensive next year.

How does it work if you don’t have an energy label yet? 

First, you should arrange an appointment with an energy consultant to check your housing dimensions, existing insulation, and installations. The consultant calculates how much energy your house uses, including heating, water, ventilation, and cooling, based on measurements. The new energy label based on the calculations provides more information about making a home more energy-efficient. The evaluation price per apartment is € 100 and € 190 for family homes. The price is based on different factors such as house type, available documents, and the consultant’s calculations.