Home › Reform of renovation grants in Wallonia: what homeowners and prospective buyers absolutely must know

Reform of renovation grants in Wallonia: what homeowners and prospective buyers absolutely must know

In this article, you will find:

The major changes compared with the previous renovation grant scheme in Wallonia
- The reform imposes stricter conditions on renovation grants in Wallonia, with a compulsory energy audit, a set sequence of works that must be followed and, in most cases, a project-linked loan.
- The aim is to promote comprehensive and effective refurbishments, focusing on insulation, heating and ventilation.
- From 2028, buyers will be required to renovate their properties to gradually meet more stringent energy performance certificate (EPC) standards.
  - 2028: EPC D
  - 2031: EPC C
  - 2036: EPC B
  - 2041: EPC A
This trend is having an impact on the property market: energy-efficient properties are increasing in value, whilst energy-inefficient homes require forward planning and greater expertise.
The current eligibility criteria for renovation grants in Wallonia
The impact of the reform of renovation grants in Wallonia on property prices
Tips for buying or renovating a property with complete peace of mind

The reform of renovation grants in Wallonia marks a significant turning point for anyone considering buying, renovating or upgrading a property in the region. Are you thinking of buying or renovating a property in Wallonia? In this article, you’ll find out exactly what’s changing, the new eligibility criteria for renovation grants in Wallonia, the types of work that are prioritised, and the impact of this reform on the property market.

Whether you are already a homeowner or are considering buying a property, this change to the public support scheme is well worth your attention. It directly affects the feasibility of projects, the overall budget for the work and, ultimately, the value of your property.

Reform of renovation grants in Wallonia:
what really changes for homeowners

Why this change?

The reform of renovation grants in Wallonia forms part of a regional drive to better regulate financial support and accelerate the energy-efficiency refurbishment of the housing stock. The aim is clear: to encourage renovation works that are more coherent, more effective and genuinely efficient in the long term.

The key change is that renovation grants in Wallonia are now linked to taking out a loan for the work. It is therefore no longer possible, in most cases, to obtain a grant without associated funding.

What has changed compared to
compared to the old system?

A more structured approach to support

Before the reform of renovation grants in Wallonia, some homeowners were able to receive financial assistance without a comprehensive overview of the project. From now on, an energy audit is essential in order to establish a logical sequence of works.

An approach to comprehensive renovation

Renovation grants in Wallonia now prioritise projects that genuinely improve a building’s energy performance, rather than isolated and largely ineffective measures.

Is it always worth it?

Whilst this reform may seem more restrictive, it remains beneficial for well-prepared projects. By combining grants and loans at preferential rates, households can finance more ambitious renovations, whilst increasing the value of their property.

For buyers of older or character properties, this reform of renovation grants in Wallonia presents an opportunity, provided they receive the right support.

Reform of renovation grants in Wallonia: what are the obligations after purchasing a property?

The reform of renovation grants in Wallonia introduces a major new requirement for property buyers from 2028: the obligation to renovate the property within a specified timeframe following purchase. This measure aims to speed up energy efficiency improvements across Wallonia’s housing stock and to phase out the most energy-inefficient homes.

In practical terms, a buyer will be required to carry out renovation work to achieve a minimum level of energy performance within five years of the signing of the deed of sale. The required standard will change over time:

From 2028: achieve a EPC D rating
From 2031: achieve a EPC C rating
From 2036: achieve a EPC B rating
From 2041: achieve an A energy performance rating

Until 2028, nothing will change for buyers. However, for future projects, this reform of renovation grants in Wallonia means that more careful consideration is required before purchasing. The cost of the work, eligibility for renovation grants in Wallonia and the need for a loan must now be taken into account right from the negotiation stage.

For savvy buyers, this requirement can also be turned to their advantage. A property with a poor energy performance certificate can be purchased at a more attractive price, provided the necessary renovation work and available financial assistance are properly factored in.

What are the eligibility criteria for renovation grants in Wallonia?

To be eligible for renovation grants in Wallonia, several conditions must be met:

Being a current or prospective owner of a property in Wallonia
Carry out a preliminary energy audit
Follow the recommended sequence of works
Taking out a loan for a renovation project

The amounts of the renovation grants in Wallonia also vary according to household income.

What are the priority works?

The reform of renovation grants in Wallonia focuses on works with a significant energy impact:

Roof insulation
Wall and floor insulation
Replacement of obsolete heating systems
Improved ventilation

This work is essential for reducing energy consumption and improving the comfort of the home.

What impact will this have on property prices in Wallonia?

This reform is already having an impact on the property market in Wallonia. Renovated, energy-efficient properties are becoming more attractive and are increasing in value. Conversely, energy-inefficient properties may see their prices adjusted downwards if they require major works.

What impact will this have on older properties, character properties, agricultural land or woodland?

The reform of renovation grants in Wallonia particularly affects older, characterful properties, which are often energy-inefficient but have significant heritage value. Castles, manor houses, country houses, farmhouses and rural buildings are directly affected by the new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements.

These properties generally require extensive, and sometimes complex, renovation work, which must be planned holistically. Renovation grants in Wallonia can therefore play a key role, provided that the project is properly structured, audited and financed through the loan schemes provided for under the reform.

Agricultural and forestry assets, on the other hand, require an even more detailed analysis.

Why is it important to do your research before buying or renovating?

The reform of renovation grants in Wallonia is a game-changer. Doing your research in advance, reading specialist articles and seeking expert advice will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and maximise the value of your property.

Get in touch with us