Selling an office without energy label C: rules, value and options

Since 1 January 2023, an office building must have at least energy label C to be used as an office (Building Decree, now Decree on Construction Works in the Living Environment). Selling is still permitted, but a buyer will factor the sustainability costs into their bid. Exceptions apply to offices smaller than 100 m² or where office space accounts for less than 50% of the surface area.

What does the label obligation for offices entail?

An office of 100 m² or more must have at least energy label C (primary fossil energy use maximum 225 kWh/m² per year). Without label C, use as an office is not permitted.

Applies to buildings where at least 50% of the surface area has an office function.
Excepted: offices smaller than 100 m², monuments and buildings that will be demolished or transformed within two years.
Enforcement lies with the municipality or environmental service.
A tightening to label A has been announced for 2030; this has not yet been definitively established.

Source: Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), 'Energy label C offices'. Always check the current rules at RVO or your municipality.

What does a missing label C do to the selling price?

A buyer deducts the estimated sustainability costs and the risk of temporary vacancy from their offer. The larger the gap to label C, the larger the discount.

Common measures include LED lighting, insulation, HR++ glass, a heat pump and solar panels. The costs vary greatly per property; an EPA advisor can indicate which measures are needed to achieve label C.

Your options as an owner

Option	When logical
Improve sustainability yourself and then sell	Limited gap to label C, budget available
Selling 'as is' to an investor or fixed buyer	Large investment needed or no time
Transform to residential or other function	Location suitable and zoning plan offers space

Frequently asked questions

Can I sell an office without energy label C?

Yes. Sale is permitted; only use as an office is not allowed without a Label C. The buyer must make the property more sustainable or choose a different use.

Does label C also apply to small offices?

No, office buildings smaller than 100 m² are exempt, as are monuments.

Will there be an A-label for offices?

Label A has been announced for 2030, but this has not yet been definitively laid down in regulations. Keep an eye on announcements from the RVO.

Compiled by the Pandverkoop.nl editorial team. Pandverkoop.nl may be the buyer; our offer is not an independent valuation. Our approach and sources policy. Last updated: 2026-10-12.