A new IEQ label for homes to accompany the energy label

Abstract

An Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) label (or 'IEQ profile' as it is called in the Netherlands) has been developed in the Netherlands specifically for homes. The label is meant to be used in conjunction with the standard energy label and the graphic design is set up accordingly. The IEQ label expresses the 'risk level' for eight distinct IEQ aspects: thermal comfort in winter, overheating in summer, air exchange (ventilation), moisture & mould, combustion gasses (from heating appliances), daylight penetration, noise from installations and noise insulation. The method for the IEQ label has been recently published in the Netherlands and a pilot project has been carried out in which the first 11 homes in the Netherlands have been provided with this new IEQ label. Most people do not consider IEQ when e.g. buying or renovating a house. The IEQ label visualizes information about comfort and health quality of a home to (future) inhabitants. It thereby assists them in making informed decisions about comfort and health related issues when improving the energy performance.