Reader鈥檚 experience of France鈥檚 DPE energy rating: 鈥榥onsense鈥�
They believe their low rating is inaccurate and devaluing their stone property
Many believe the DPE misrepresents older stone properties (image for representation only)
WhiteSquare / Shutterstock
I was quoted in an article in your May issue regarding the energy-efficiency (DPE) score of my Dordogne farmhouse.
Having challenged the rating, it has moved from a G to an F, so there is some improvement.
However, it still seems extremely unfair that someone who does little more than tap the walls with his knuckles can ruin the value of a property.
Our walls are 1.4m thick, stone and blocks either side.
We have lost two buyers due to this totally false report.
It says the house has no protection from the sun but this is complete nonsense.
We have wood for heating and cooking and use very little of it.
Another point to mention is the cost.
We paid 鈧�850 for the DPE certificate and another 鈧�720 for an [obligatory] energy audit.
A friend with twice the space paid only 鈧�750 for his DPE, so shop around.
I understand the aim of the exercise is to reduce emissions, yet ours came out at a high C.
It is ruining the value of stone properties.
Soon there will be a shortage as no one will be able to sell at a reasonable price.
Connexion reader Terry Scates, by email
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