The impact of RE2020 on renovations: a revolution in Bordeaux's real estate landscape

The Réglementation Environnementale 2020 (RE2020) is the new environmental regulation that follows on from the RT 2012 (Réglementation Thermique 2012), tightening up energy and environmental performance requirements for buildings. Its main goal is to reduce the consumption of energy by buildings and limit their impact on the environment, by optimizing the use of bio-sourced raw materials and improving their thermal insulation. Initially intended for new builds, the RE2020 also impacts the renovations market, a crucial issue in a city such as Bordeaux, where the architectural heritage and real estate constraints impose specific restrictions.

According to the statistics, almost 60% of Bordeaux's housing stock was built before 1975, which implies that many buildings have inadequate energy performance. With its numerous stone buildings and listed districts, Bordeaux must also reconcile its ecological ambitions with the preservation of its architectural and patrimonial identity.

RE2020 and renovation: concrete changes in Bordeaux :

Climate zoning and impact on renovations
Bordeaux is located in a H2c climate zone, characterized by hot summers and relatively mild but wet winters. These conditions call for strategic choices in terms of materials and ventilation to improve energy efficiency while ensuring thermal comfort for residents.

 - Obligation to improve airtightness without compromising natural ventilation: this requires the use of adapted solutions such as airtight joinery with integrated ventilation grilles.

- Preference for moisture-resistant bio-sourced insulation materials such as wood wool, cellulose wadding and hemp, which help to regulate humidity and temperature naturally.

- Promotion of high-performing ventilation systems, such as double-flux CMV adapted to older buildings, to optimize ventilation while limiting heat loss.

Legal obligations - RE2020 certification is mandatory for extensions over 50 m² or major renovations involving significant changes to the building's thermal structure.

- Maximum primary energy consumption (PEC) threshold adapted to the local climate and taking into consideration the building's carbon emissions over its entire life cycle.

- More stringent requirements on the greenhouse gas emissions of the materials used, promoting the use of natural and recyclable materials.

Challenges and opportunities for high-end renovations in Bordeaux Technical challenges - Heritage conservation: the installation of double-glazing is a complex task on listed buildings, as it must meet strict aesthetic standards while improving energy performance.

Outlook: How RE2020 will remodel the Bordeaux real estate market Trends - Rise of local eco-materials, notably Bordeaux stone and refractory brick, adapted to the constraints of Bordeaux's climate.

- Increasing demand for LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) diagnoses in transactions, to assess the environmental impact of renovations.

- Testing self-energy consumption solutions with photovoltaic installations discreetly integrated into roofs.

Opportunities
Value of renovated RE2020 properties

RE2020-compliant properties are increasing in value. Some buyers and investors are now concerned about the energy efficiency of the properties they acquire. This is particularly the case in heritage areas such as Bordeaux and its city center, where quality renovations are becoming a major asset for resale.

Attractiveness to eco-sensitive global clientele Wealthy buyers are looking for properties that combine luxury values with respect for the environment. This is a fast-growing segment.

Free consultation with our experts Bordeaux Sotheby's International Realty

Are you planning an RE2020-compliant renovation in Bordeaux? Our Bordeaux Sotheby's International Realty experts can point you in the right direction !!