The survey, “European Property Owners’ Perspectives and Experiences on Building Renovation”, gathered the views of more than 5,500 homeowners and landlords across 32 countries, provides a valuable source of insight into the experiences, motivations and barriers faced by private property owners. Conducted between July and December 2024 in cooperation with UIPI’s national member associations and several EU-funded projects, the study captures a clear message: property owners recognise the benefits of renovation, but struggle to turn intent into action.

According to the results, a large majority of respondents (78%) recognise the benefits of making their properties more energy-efficient, and 84% have either renovated in the past decade, are currently doing so, or plan to within the next ten years. The main motivations include preserving and maintaining their property, improving comfort, and reducing running costs. Yet, despite this positive mindset, only a small fraction, around 13%, have carried out deep renovations reaching high energy standards.

Financial considerations emerge as the most significant barrier. Over a third of respondents say they lack the funds or sufficient financial support to proceed, while many others doubt that the investment is “worth it.” More than one-third of those who had undertaken renovation did so without any form of public or financial aid. Those who did benefit most often accessed tax deductions or direct subsidies.

Technical guidance also appears insufficient. Only 55% of respondents received professional advice during renovation, typically relying on craftspeople first or architects. Awareness of one-stop shops (OSS), integrated service hubs promoted under the EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, remains low, with just 11% of owners aware of such services, though those familiar with an OSS generally found them useful.

The survey further explored attitudes toward key EU policy instruments. Nearly 60% of respondents oppose making Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) mandatory, citing high costs, lack of flexibility, and infringement on property rights. Meanwhile, half of respondents who possess an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) doubt its reliability, and awareness of Building Renovation Passports (BRPs) remains very low, although many owners would adopt one if subsidised.

For UIPI, these results highlight both opportunity and urgency. “Europe’s owners are willing to act, but their ability to do so hinges on affordability and trust,” said Emmanuelle Causse, Secretary General of UIPI. “Policymakers must ensure that renovation policies are realistic, socially balanced, and backed by effective financial and technical support.”

With the EU’s revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive’s implementation phase, the survey serves as a timely reminder that the success of Europe’s green transition depends not only on regulations, but also on the everyday reality of those who own and maintain the buildings where Europeans live.