Letters: France needs to protect its heritage from DPE certificates
Connexion reader says the energy certificates force unsuitable technology into old homes
Reader says the materials required to get a good DPE rating are not well-suited to his home
Franck Boston/Shutterstock
To the Editor,
Further to your article on DPE energy certification for older properties:
We own a 400-year-old colombage house and I have helped sell around 25 similar properties in my region. I believe the current DPE system discriminates against older homes.
Traditional materials such as clay torchi provide excellent insulation—our home stays cool in summer and warm in winter, with modest energy bills.
We heat mainly with an efficient wood stove and range, supported by shutters and draught-proofing, without needing much electricity.
Yet the DPE model seems biased towards modern technologies like heat pumps, polystyrene insulation and plastic windows.
These can damage timber-framed houses, reduce habitable space, and undermine their heritage character. They are also costly, resource-intensive and often less effective than claimed.
Diagnostics are now used by buyers and banks to drive down prices, affecting sales and lending. This risks discouraging owners from putting older properties on the market, with knock-on effects for agents, artisans and tax revenues.
In the UK, our house would be listed and protected.
France should think more carefully about preserving architectural heritage rather than imposing unsuitable, short-lived technologies.
Those who value energy savings above all else can buy a modern pavilion house; those who choose older homes do so for their character and history.
PM, by email
Have you had an older property assessed for a DPE certificate? How did it perform? Let us know at letters@connexionfrance.com
