Vaud: what’s changing for property owners from 1 January 2027

1. Heating: renewable when replaced

• New buildings must be heated using renewable energy sources: heat pumps, wood, solar thermal, heat recovery or district heating that is predominantly renewable.
• Existing oil and gas heating systems must be replaced with a renewable system: by the end of 2041 if they were installed before 2020, and by the end of 2046 if they were installed after that date.
• If the heating system breaks down before then, the replacement must already be renewable.
• New electric heating systems (radiators, electric water heaters) are prohibited, subject to certain exceptions.

2. The CECB becomes compulsory for older buildings

Owners of buildings constructed before 1 January 1986 must have a CECB drawn up at their own expense by 31 December 2031. Buildings with a recognised label, such as Minergie, are exempt. The CECB must also be provided to the buyer at the time of sale.

3. Mandatory renovation: only for large buildings

Buildings whose building envelope is classified as F or G on the CECB and which have a heated floor area of 750 m² or more must achieve at least class D:

• by 31 December 2036 for buildings rated G;
• by 31 December 2041 for buildings rated F.

Detached houses and most small blocks of flats are therefore not affected by this requirement. Exemptions may be granted on technical, heritage or financial grounds.

4. Solar panels on new and renovated roofs

New builds and roof renovations must incorporate a solar installation. A transition period applies until 1 July 2027 for certain projects.

What financial support is available?

• Grants from the Buildings Programme for heat pumps, insulation, solar panels and the CECB Plus: see our page on Vaud cantonal grants.
• Support from an accredited professional (AMO): up to CHF 4,000 for a house.
• Tax deductions for energy-saving works.
• Support for landlords who undertake not to pass on the cost of the renovation to tenants’ rents.