Glossary
Energy audit (audit énergétique): what it is and when you need one
Quick definition
An audit énergétique is a detailed energy assessment of a residential property, carried out by a certified professional. It goes significantly further than the standard DPE: where the DPE gives the property a letter rating, the audit produces a full renovation roadmap. It identifies the main sources of heat loss, models the expected impact of different renovation scenarios on energy consumption and running costs, and recommends a sequence of works to improve the property's energy class. Since April 2023, an audit is mandatory when selling properties classed F or G on the DPE. It is also required to access MaPrimeRénov' parcours accompagné, the scheme for major multi-measure renovation projects.
What is the difference between an audit énergétique and a DPE?
The DPE (Diagnostic de Performance Energetique) rates the property from A to G based on estimated energy consumption and CO2 emissions. It is a snapshot and is required for all property sales and rental listings. A diagnostiqueur completes it, typically in a few hours.
The audit énergétique builds on the DPE data but goes much further. It requires a longer on-site inspection, detailed modelling of the building's fabric and systems, and the production of at least two renovation scenarios. Each scenario shows what works are needed, what they would cost, what energy savings they would generate, and what DPE class the property would achieve after completion. The audit is a planning tool, not just a rating.
Both documents may be produced at the same time by a qualified professional, but they are distinct documents serving different purposes.
When is an audit énergétique required?
There are two situations where an audit is legally required:
- Sale of a property rated F or G: since 1 April 2023, an audit must be provided to prospective buyers of any single-family house classed F or G on the DPE. Properties classed E were added to this obligation from 1 January 2025. The audit must be included in the dossier de diagnostic technique handed over before the sale completes.
- MaPrimeRénov' parcours accompagné: this is the pathway for homeowners undertaking substantial renovation projects covering multiple measures. An audit is required before works begin to define the renovation programme, confirm the starting energy class, and set the target improvement of at least two DPE classes.
Outside these two situations, an audit is not legally required. However, it is worth commissioning voluntarily before planning significant renovation work, since it provides better guidance than the DPE alone on which measures will have the most impact.
What does an audit include?
A compliant audit énergétique must cover:
- An assessment of the building's current energy performance (consistent with the DPE methodology)
- Identification of the main sources of heat loss: building envelope, windows, roof, floors, thermal bridges
- At least two renovation scenarios, each showing a recommended package of works
- For each scenario: estimated works cost, expected energy savings, expected DPE class after completion, and indicative payback period
- One scenario must target Class B or better; another must propose an intermediate step on the way there
- Information on available subsidies for the recommended works
The audit does not specify exact products or contractors. It provides a framework for planning renovation. Your subsequent quotes and contractor decisions are separate from the audit itself.
How much does an audit énergétique cost?
The cost is set freely by the auditor and is not regulated. For most residential properties, expect to pay 400-800 EUR. Larger or more complex properties may cost more. The cost is not subsidised directly, though it can be included in the works budget for a MaPrimeRénov' parcours accompagné application in some cases. The auditor is paid independently by the homeowner.
Who can carry out an audit énergétique?
Not everyone qualified to carry out a DPE is qualified to carry out an audit. The audit must be done by one of the following:
- A certified energy auditor holding a specific qualification (architecte, ingénieur, or a diagnostiqueur with an additional audit certification)
- A Mon Accompagnateur Renov' (MAR) for projects going through MaPrimeRénov' parcours accompagné
You can find certified auditors through the France Renov' platform at france-renov.gouv.fr, which lists qualified professionals by postcode. Note that the qualirenovation.fr register is for RGE-certified contractors, not energy auditors; the two directories are separate. Check that the professional's certification covers residential energy audits specifically before commissioning.
What is Mon Accompagnateur Renov'?
Mon Accompagnateur Renov' (MAR) is a state-approved renovation advisor. If you are going through MaPrimeRénov' parcours accompagné, using a MAR is compulsory. The MAR can carry out or commission the audit, help you select contractors, check the works are carried out as specified, and manage the grant application. The MAR's fee is subsidised under parcours accompagné for lower-income households. Higher-income households pay a greater share of the MAR fee themselves.
Related terms
- DPE: the energy performance certificate that an audit builds on
- MaPrimeRénov': parcours accompagné requires an audit before works begin
- ANAH: the body that administers MaPrimeRénov' and parcours accompagné
- RGE certification: contractors carrying out audit-recommended works must hold the relevant RGE
- Éco-PTZ: the zero-interest loan that can finance the works recommended in an audit