GEAK: building certificate of the cantons
The GEAK (building certificate of the cantons) is a document recognised throughout Switzerland. The GEAK certificate shows how energy-efficient a building shell is and how much energy this building consumes on average (i.e. under normal usage). For this purpose the GEAK categorises buildings in energy classes from A to G – along the same lines as the energy label for washing machines, refrigerators and lights. This enables buildings to be compared with one another, which is helpful not only for purchase and rental offers but also for planned refurbishments.
GEAK Plus
GEAK Plus goes significantly further than the basic GEAK document. GEAK Plus comprises a comprehensive consulting report drawn up by a GEAK expert. It is an initial step towards building refurbishment. It lists specific measures for improving the energy efficiency of the building under analysis, such as window refurbishment, façade insulation and roof insulation. Furthermore, GEAK Plus contains two to three individual options for energy-oriented refurbishment. Its refurbishment plan sets out how the proposed refurbishment can be divided into stages, what investments are to be expected and which funding options are available for the proposed measures.
GEAK and GEAK Plus: the costs
The GEAK costs for a single-family dwelling normally amount to between CHF 450 and CHF 650, depending on the outlay. The GEAK Plus costs for most single-family dwellings lie between CHF 1,800 and CHF 2,200.
GEAK classes: What are they?
The GEAK classes, or to put it more precisely the energy classes pursuant to GEAK, range from A to G – from very high energy efficiency to very low energy efficiency. By way of comparison, a building with energy class A has excellent thermal insulation and windows with triple glazing. Energy class D typically contains old buildings that have been extensively insulated but still contain thermal bridges – i.e. have not been altered much structurally. G as the worst GEAK class is the label for old buildings that are not or are only poorly insulated and have old windows.
GEAK experts
A GEAK certificate can be issued just as easily in Thurgau as in Berne or Zurich: GEAK experts are to be found in all parts of the country and are specialists offering energy consulting and building analyses: a GEAK expert has the requisite training and professional experience. While the term energy consulting is not protected, only certified specialists may issue a GEAK or GEAK Plus.
GEAK funding
GEAK funding – or funding for GEAK Plus – is available in most cantons. It is important to apply for this before the GEAK or GEAK Plus is issued. The best thing is to contact the energy office of your canton or energy officer of your municipality about this in advance.
GEAK stands for "Building Energy Certificate of the Cantons" and is a document recognised throughout Switzerland that issues your property with an energy label. The following 3 factors are taken into account: the quality of the building envelope, the overall energy balance and the direct CO2 emissions. If you also want details of the refurbishment plan, you will need a GEAK Plus.
The GEAK is a 4-page document that maps the energy efficiency of the property and categorises it into one of the energy efficiency classes from A-G The GEAK Plus also proposes 2-3 refurbishment options, each with a classification in efficiency classes A to G. Both are valid for 10 years.
In principle, there is no obligation to have a GEAK carried out. In some cantons, however, a GEAK is mandatory if you are planning to replace a heating system or sell a property. A GEAK is also often mandatory when applying for subsidies.
The costs for a GEAK or GEAK Plus can vary depending on the size and type of property. Here is a rough cost estimate:
A GEAK for a detached house costs between CHF 500 and CHF 800.
A GEAK Plus for a detached house costs between CHF 1,400 and 2,100.
Some cantons offer subsidies for the preparation of a GEAK.
Only certified GEAK experts are authorised to issue this building certificate. At Buildigo, we will be happy to put you in touch with qualified professionals from your region.
Experts can create a GEAK for private and commercial properties. For example: Residential or school buildings, hotels and restaurants.
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