France's DPE energy rules may leave beautiful older homes worthless

To the Editor,

A recent energy assessment conducted for informational purposes gave our 500-year-old stone house in rural France a grade of F. 

Because our ancient house is in an historic district, it is impossible to apply the remedies required by the energy assessment. 

As second-home owners we have spent our own money to do what we can. 

The roof of our house is now very well insulated, as well as one external grenier wall. 

We use an insert and a wood burning stove to heat our home in the winter. Our wooden windows have been converted to double-paned ones. 

We have recently added an energy-efficient front door and two Velux. Rising damp prohibits the insulation of our walls.

The current standards governing energy ratings must be changed to recognise the value of ancient construction methods. Only by doing so will houses such as ours be protected.

If these standards are not changed it will become difficult – if not impossible – to rent or sell them. 

Eventually, devaluation will result in their destruction. 

How many tourists will visit France to view villages filled with bland, characterless modern houses?

C. D. L. by email

Have you attempted to improve the DPE rating of your home? At what cost? Let us know at letters@connexionfrance.com