Portugal’s energy certificate (certificado energético) summarises a property’s energy class and improvement measures. For covered sales and lettings, a valid certificate should exist before advertising, and the key information should reach the buyer or tenant before the promissory contract and the final deed.
When it is required
Know when the certificate is mandatory
- Before advertising
As a rule, do not market a covered property for sale or rent without a valid energy certificate. The listing should show the energy class.
- Before the promissory contract
Make the certificate (or the essential information in it) available before signing a CPCV or similar commitment.
- Before the deed or authentication
At completion, the certificate number is normally recorded. Without a valid document, the act can stall when the duty applies.
- Check exceptions against official sources
Some cases are excluded or follow special rules. Do not assume an exemption: confirm on the SCE portal or with whoever formalises the deal.
For sellers
Get the certificate before you go to market
- Hire a qualified SCE expert
The certificate is issued by a registered technician after a site visit, based on the building, systems and use.
- Gather plans and useful documents
Floor plans, the property tax booklet, the technical housing sheet when it exists, and system descriptions speed up the visit.
- Book the visit early
Leave time for corrections, a return visit or clarifications before photos and advertising.
- Show the class and recommendations clearly
State the class plainly. Improvement measures help explain the property without promising works you will not do.
For buyers
Read the certificate as a decision tool
- Ask for the number and validity
Confirm it matches the right unit and is still in force.
- Weigh class against price and comfort
A weak class need not stop a purchase, but it belongs in negotiation, running costs and any planned works.
- Read the suggested measures
Treat them as preliminary technical guidance, not a fixed quote.
- Cross-check the rest of the paperwork
The certificate does not replace the land registry, licences or condominium checks. It sits with the set in documents before buying.
Completion
Avoid late-stage surprises
Align the certificate with the CPCV, mortgage and deed timetable. If it is missing, expired or refers to another unit, fix that before compressing deadlines. Keep the official SCE PDF and confirm the number that will appear in the final deed.
Verified sources
Official information to check
General information reviewed against official sources available on September 21, 2026. It does not replace legal, tax, financial or technical advice for your circumstances.