CEE Roof Insulation Bonus: Eligible work, amounts and procedures

The CEE bonus helps finance roof and attic insulation. This scheme encourages individuals to reduce their energy consumption. Eligible work includes thermal insulation of roofs, attics, walls and floors.

To benefit from this aid, you must use an RGE-certified craftsman. The application must be made before signing the estimate for the work.

The amount of the grant varies according to surface area and climate zone. For example, it can be as much as €10 per insulated m². The bonus can be combined with other grants such as MaPrimeRénov' or the zero-rate eco-loan.

Households in cold zones or on low incomes often benefit from higher amounts. In this way, the State supports projects that reduce heat loss and improve the energy efficiency of homes.

Understanding the CEE premium for roof and loft insulation

Defining the CEE scheme and how it works

Energy Savings Certificates (CEE) oblige energy suppliers like EDF or TotalEnergies to finance work to reduce energy consumption.

Each supplier must create certificates by helping households to make savings. These certificates are then validated by the French government.

For example, a private individual insulates his roof. EDF finances part of the work via the energy bonus. This aid reduces the bill and enables EDF to receive EECs. Roof insulation is one of the most effective ways of reducing heat loss and improving thermal comfort.

Why does the government subsidize roof insulation?

According to ADEME(Agence de la Transition Écologique), a poorly insulated roof accounts for 25% to 30% of heat loss in a house. This energy loss increases heating consumption and bills.

The French government provides funding to help reduce these costs and make homes more comfortable in winter.

Limiting energy loss also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By supporting insulation projects, we are helping to meet climate objectives and reduce environmental impact. This dynamic also concerns professionals: companies too can benefit from aid to facilitate their energy transition.

Difference between classic CEE, coup de pouce (ended), and other aids (MaPrimeRénov')

Conventional CEE comes from energy suppliers. They finance energy renovation work, such as loft and roof insulation, via energy savings certificates.

The "Coup de pouce" scheme, due to expire in July 2021, boosted these premiums for priority operations, including insulation or the replacement of oil-fired boilers. This system targeted households in fuel poverty as a priority.

MaPrimeRénov', managed by the Agence Nationale de l'Habitat (ANAH), is another form of public assistance. It is based on income criteria and also finances renovations such as insulation or the installation of a heat pump.

Unlike CEE, this bonus is fully subsidized by the State. The two forms of assistance can be combined, allowing maximum cost reduction for high-performance insulation work.

💡 Explore the regulations you need to know about for your commercial buildings

What types of insulation are eligible for the CEE bonus?

Loft insulation is eligible for the CEE bonus. Roof slopes are also eligible. Under-roof and external insulation are also covered.

The materials used must meet precise criteria for high thermal resistance.

The work must be carried out by an RGE-certified professional. The application must be made before the work begins. Insulation of walls and low floors is also covered, subject to the conditions defined.

These projects significantly improve a building's energy efficiency and reduce bills.

Attic insulation

Attic space is insulated to reduce heat loss. This insulation uses techniques such as blowing, rolls or loose-fill. Blowing distributes insulation such as glass wool or cellulose wadding evenly over the entire surface.

Rolls are quick and easy to install, ideal for flat surfaces. These methods ensure a better indoor temperature while limiting primary energy consumption.

To qualify for the CEE bonus, a minimum thermal resistance (R) of 7 m².K/W must be met. This standard guarantees high-performance, environmentally-friendly insulation. This type of work often involves large surfaces, generally over 30 m².

Good thermal insulation also reduces electricity bills and improves the Energy Performance Diagnostic (DPE).

Crawl space insulation

Roof rafters are often insulated between the rafters or under the roof. It's ideal for converted attics to improve thermal renovation. A minimum thermal resistance of 6 m².K/W is required.

Work within this threshold reduces energy loss and increases property value.

Materials such as rock wool, wood or standard insulating panels are used. These materials offer long-lasting performance and can be adapted to different types of structure.

Proper installation includes a vapour barrier to prevent damp.

Exterior insulation

Exterior insulation is often carried out using the sarking method or rigid panels. This technique adds an insulating layer above the roof. It ensures better thermal performance without reducing living space.

The vapour barrier is essential to limit moisture infiltration.

This solution guarantees thermal continuity and reduces thermal bridges. To qualify for the CEE bonus, the work must meet certain criteria, such as sufficient insulation thickness.

Only RGE-certified companies can carry out this work. These points are crucial for financial eligibility. External insulation can ideally be complemented by an innovative solution such as Cool Roof, which reflects solar heat and further optimizes thermal comfort.

Under-roof insulation

Under-roof insulation improves thermal comfort and reduces bills. For attics that can be converted, it's possible to insulate without removing the roof covering. Thin solutions, such as rigid panels, are ideal for small spaces.

These materials guarantee performance close to that of sloping roofs. A vapour barrier is often added to prevent moisture problems.

Eligible work qualifies for the CEE insulation bonus. To qualify, the materials used must meet current standards. This insulation contributes to the energy transition by reducing heating consumption.

It is part of an overall approach to home improvement.

Conditions of eligibility for CEE insulation grants

The work must meet specific criteria. The craftsman chosen must hold RGE (Reconnu Garant de l'Environnement) certification. You must apply for the CEE premium before signing the estimate.

Without this step, financial assistance cannot be granted. The home must have been built at least 2 years ago.

The amount of the grant depends on the climate zone. H1 regions (cold climate) receive more support than H3 zones (mild climate). Attics, sloping ceilings and flat roofs are eligible if the insulation materials used meet the required standards.

To further reduce the remaining costs, it can be combined with MaPrimeRénov'.

Technical criteria

The minimum thermal resistance required is 6 kW/m² for lost attics and 7 kW/m² for roof slopes. Materials must carry ACERMI certification and comply with NF EN ISO/CEI 17025 and NF EN 45011 standards.

A suitable vapour barrier is essential to avoid moisture problems.

Only an RGE-certified craftsman can carry out the work to qualify for the bonus. The work must be carried out in accordance with standardized operation sheets, in particular BAT-EN-112, which provides a clear framework for these operations. The application must be made before the estimate is signed, and must be submitted at least 7 days before the work begins.

Home eligibility

Homes must have been built at least two years ago. This applies to both single-family homes and apartment buildings. Only homes located in mainland France are eligible for energy-saving certificates (CEE).

Both primary and secondary residences are eligible. The location of the home (climatic zones H1, H2, H3) can influence the amount in €/m². These criteria help reduce energy consumption and improve thermal performance.

Beneficiary eligibility

Owners, lessors or usufructuaries can apply for the CEE bonus. Tenants must have the agreement of the owner. The amount of the bonus may vary according to income.

Work must be carried out by an RGE-certified professional. The application must be submitted before the estimate is signed. A period of 7 days must elapse before work begins to validate eligibility.

How much is the CEE premium for roof insulation?

The CEE premium for roof insulation varies between €5 and €10 per m². The amount depends on the climate zone. Low-income households receive €7 per m².

For other households, it's €6 per m², with no means-testing required. Work must be carried out by an RGE-certified craftsman to be eligible.

This bonus can be combined with MaPrimeRénov' and other public grants. For example, a 100 m² home in a cold zone can get up to €1,000. The application must be made before the insulation work begins.

This rule guarantees funding for projects that meet criteria such as the use of high-performance insulation materials.

Amount in €/m² according to climate zone and resources

The amount of the CEE premium for roof insulation varies according to climate zone (H1, H2, H3) and household resources. These differences are designed to benefit low-income households, and to tailor assistance to regional energy needs.

Climatic zones influence amounts, as heating needs differ. In zone H1 (cold regions), subsidies are maximized. For H2 (temperate) and H3 (hot), the amounts are reduced. Low-income households benefit from higher grants to encourage energy renovation.

Calculation examples

Here are some concrete examples of how to calculate the CEE roof insulation premium:

Each scenario shows the potential savings on annual bills. Amounts include climate zone criteria and type of insulation chosen.

Cumulation with MaPrimeRénov' and other grants

The Prime CEE is used first to reduce the cost of insulation work. MaPrimeRénov' then supplements it according to household income. For example, a modest family can receive up to €25/m² with MaPrimeRénov' after deducting the Prime CEE.

It can also be combined with a zero-rate eco-loan (éco-PTZ) to finance the remainder of the work. Local and regional grants are available in certain areas for specific projects.

These schemes considerably reduce bills and promote renewable energy.

How can you benefit from the CEE premium to insulate your roof?

The CEE bonus helps finance the insulation of your roof. Follow these simple steps to benefit.

1. Get a detailed estimate from an RGE-certified craftsman. Make sure the work includes compliant solutions (vapour barrier, bio-sourced or traditional insulation).
2. Apply before signing the estimate. Any prior signature cancels the possibility of obtaining the bonus.
3. Prepare the necessary documents, such as a copy of the estimate, an affidavit and proof of the property (energy bills, DPE).
4. Check that the property is in mainland France and more than 2 years old. This is one of the key eligibility criteria.
5. Provide tax information if requested. Although the bonus does not require means-testing, it can influence the amount paid.
6. Contact a partner like IZI by EDF or France Rénov to simplify the process, or use their online calculator to estimate your gain.
7. Respect the deadlines set between the administrative formalities and the insulation work under the roof or lost attic space.
8. Choose efficient materials that reduce your energy consumption(kWh cumac). These choices guarantee lower energy bills in the future.
9. Wait for validation and receive your financial aid directly after the work has been validated by the chosen RGE craftsman.
10. Combine this assistance with MaPrimeRénov' or other public schemes to further increase your energy savings!

Application steps

Applying for the CEE insulation grant involves a number of precise steps. These steps ensure that the application process runs smoothly and that you receive the grant.

1. Find an RGE (Reconnu Garant de l'Environnement) craftsman. This label certifies that the work carried out complies with standards. This choice is mandatory to benefit from the CEE energy bonus. Consult specialized directories or reliable platforms.
2. Sign a compliant estimate before starting work. The dates of the estimate and the start of the work are crucial. Signing after the work has begun makes the bonus ineligible.
3. Submit the application with all the necessary documents. Provide a copy of the signed estimate, a declaration of honor and the supporting documents requested as proof of eligibility.
4. Have the insulation work carried out by your chosen RGE-certified craftsman. Compliance with the specified techniques is essential to validate your application.
5. Receive the premium once your complete file has been validated by the CEE organization you have chosen. An online simulator enables you to estimate the amount in advance, depending on your home and climate zone.

Deadlines and documents to be supplied

There must be a period of 7 days between the signing of the estimate and the start of the work. This period complies with regulations to ensure proper installation. The work must be carried out by an RGE-certified craftsman to qualify for the incentives.

Several documents are essential. You'll need a signed estimate, a sworn statement, a detailed invoice and proof of the craftsman's RGE certification.

Keep all these documents for at least 6 years to ensure complete traceability. This obligation also protects against malpractice.

Who to contact

Energy suppliers such as EDF, TotalEnergies and Engie distribute the CEE bonus. They are called "obligés" by the French government. Other players, such as Effy, Hellio or IZI by EDF, act as agents or delegates.

They help you put together your file and take the necessary steps. For example, IZI by EDF offers a simple form to ask questions.

Avoid abusive canvassing. Some companies promise low-cost work but don't meet the criteria. Always check that the company is RGE (Reconnu Garant de l'Environnement) certified.

When in doubt, opt for recognized players to secure your project and reduce your energy bills.

Which insulation materials should I choose to benefit from CEE?

Insulation materials must be ACERMI-certified. Biobased insulation materials such as wood wool or hemp are eligible. They offer good insulating power and are environmentally friendly.

Traditional products such as glass or rock wool are just as effective. A minimum thermal resistance of 7 is required to validate the work.

Installation must be carried out by an RGE-certified professional. This guarantees the quality of the work and access to the CEE bonus. The materials chosen must help reduce energy bills and improve the home's performance.

Choosing the right insulation reinforces an overall energy renovation strategy.

Focus on biobased insulation

Biobased insulation materials offer significant thermal benefits. They limit heat loss and lower energy consumption. What's more, like biomass and solar energy, they are environmentally friendly and reduce heating-related emissions.

Cellulose wadding, wood wool and hemp are the most common. These materials respect the environment and health by avoiding chemical products.

They become eligible for the CEE bonus if they have a recognized certification. Their production uses renewable resources, which greatly reduces the ecological footprint.

With these insulating materials, your work will improve the thermal performance of your room or home in line with low-energy standards. It also increases comfort, especially in winter. To complete these benefits, some materials can be combined with innovative coatings such as solar paint, which further enhance the building's energy efficiency.

Comparison with traditional insulation

Comparing bio-sourced and traditional insulation materials helps to choose the best for roof insulation. Here's a comparison table based on performance, price, durability and ease of installation.

Impact on overall renovation strategy

Choosing the right insulation materials optimizes the overall renovation strategy. Biobased insulation, for example, improves thermal inertia. This limits temperature variations in summer and reduces the need for air conditioning.

Good insulation of crawl spaces and attic floors, as Michel mentioned, can reduce fuel consumption.

Including this choice in an energy audit guarantees efficient renovation. A well-insulated roof reduces energy bills by up to 30%. This improves thermal comfort and turns an energy sieve into an efficient home.

Matching materials to the DPE also helps to enhance the value of the property on the market.

Pitfalls to avoid to secure your CEE bonus

Mistakes can cost you your CEE bonus. Adopt good practices to avoid common pitfalls.

1. Don't sign the quotation before applying for the premium. The request must be made before any commitment is made.
2. Make sure the craftsman is RGE (Reconnu Garant de l'Environnement) certified. This certification is mandatory to validate your work.
3. Respect deadlines for submitting supporting documents. Missing or late paperwork often cancels the bonus.
4. Choose materials that comply with current thermal standards. This guarantees the eligibility of the work and saves energy.
5. Avoid offers that are too tempting without thorough verification. Some scams promise unrealistic or unclear amounts.
6. Check that your home meets the eligibility criteria for the CEE bonus, such as having been built before July 2014.
7. If you are a landlord, get your tenant's agreement if he or she will benefit directly from the desired energy reduction.
8. Don't combine grants without checking their compatibility, such as MaPrimeRénov' and the CEE bonus, to avoid administrative rejection.
9. Refuse quotes where the amount is artificially inflated to maximize financial aid that is not legitimate.
10. Update the DPE after insulation to prove the energy efficiency achieved and guarantee your rights in the event of a future audit.

Non-compliant work

Non-compliant work cancels access to the CEE bonus. Minimum thermal resistance is required: 6 KW/m² for lost attics, 7 KW/m² for crawl spaces. Materials must be certified and the estimate signed before work begins.

A non-certified product or a late estimate will result in refusal of the grant. Only qualified professionals can carry out the work. If you use unsuitable insulation or ignore these criteria, you will not be eligible for the grant.

Missed deadlines

There must be a period of 7 days between the signing of the estimate and the start of the work. Failure to comply with this rule may invalidate your CEE grant. It is essential to apply for the premium before signing the estimate, otherwise your application will be rejected.

Anticipate the winter period to avoid delays. Submit all documents within the maximum deadline set after the work has been completed. This ensures that your application meets the requirements of the scheme.

Scams and bad practices

Some companies claim to be RGE-certified without actually being so. This can lead to non-compliant work and the loss of your bonus. Inflated invoices and excessive estimates are also common.

These practices are designed to artificially increase the amount of the subsidy.

Always use an RGE-certified craftsman for your insulation work, and benefit from reduced VAT of 5.5%. Use a reliable platform or a certified network to avoid scams.

Check certifications and customer reviews before committing yourself.

Roof insulation as part of an overall energy renovation strategy

Roof insulation reduces heat loss. 30% of energy loss occurs through the roof. Prioritizing this work improves a home's DPE. Glass wool with a thermal resistance of 7 or more is ideal for lost attics.

This meets the requirements of the CEE bonus. The company must be RGE-certified to guarantee eligibility. A better-insulated home reduces heating and hot-water consumption.

This insulation increases the value of the property and is integrated with other steps such as ventilation or insulating windows. For professionals, high-performance insulation is essential to a company's overall energy-saving strategy.

Cumulative grants, including MaPrimeRénov', reduce the total cost of the work. An online simulator helps you forecast the amount of the CEE grant. It also makes it easier to prepare for the next job. By choosing bio-sourced materials, the ecological impact remains low.

This is in line with the objectives of the Stratégie Nationale Bas Carbone by 2025.

Why start with the roof

Heat rises. A poorly insulated roof causes up to 30% energy loss. It's a logical priority to reduce heat loss. Improving thermal insulation optimizes a home's overall energy balance.

This rapidly increases comfort and reduces bills.

Roof insulation work offers a rapid return on investment. With the CEE bonus and other grants such as MaPrimeRénov', the cost of the work is considerably reduced.

This type of renovation also boosts the value of the property, helping to improve its DPE rating.

Impact on DPE and property value

Roof insulation immediately improves the property's DPE. A better energy rating reduces energy bills by up to 30%. It also increases property value.

A better-insulated property sells or rents for a higher price.

This improvement makes the property eligible for grants such as MaPrimeRénov' Sérénité or Eco-PTZ. These schemes encourage renovations to achieve optimum energy performance.

A well-insulated roof thus becomes a profitable strategy for homeowners, and the same applies to professional spaces, notably offices, where energy savings significantly improve operating costs.

Next steps to consider

Consider insulating walls to further reduce heat loss. Replace old joinery with high-performance windows. This will increase your home's energy efficiency.

Good ventilation improves indoor air quality and prevents dampness after insulation.

Install a heating system, such as a heat pump, that is compatible with a comprehensive renovation. Carry out an energy audit prior to these steps. This identifies priorities and maximizes the benefits of subsidies such as MaPrimeRénov' or eco-prêt à taux zéro (eco-PTZ).

Plan each stage to optimize your energy savings. Once the work has been completed, consider installing flat-roof solar panels to generate your own renewable energy and boost the benefits of your renovation.

2025 outlook and latest news on the CEE scheme

The CEE scheme will evolve between now and 2025 to reinforce energy renovation. The end of the "Coup de pouce" bonus has already marked a turning point. Assistance will focus more on priority projects such as insulation and domestic hot water.

These changes are aimed at aligning objectives with the National Low Carbon Strategy.

The new rules could give priority to low-income households and the most affected climatic zones. Bonus amounts will vary according to resources and location.

Insulation work, particularly on roofs, will remain at the heart of the scheme, thanks to its direct impact on the DPE.

Future developments

New conditions for the CEE bonus could be introduced. Current discussions are focusing on the addition of technical data sheets specifying eligible work. Certain less efficient materials or processes may no longer be eligible.

A reduction in premium amounts is also envisaged. This will depend on the energy performance targets set for 2025. Assistance could be concentrated on projects offering the greatest energy savings.

Consequences of the end of the rebate

The end of the "coup de pouce" has reduced the amounts available for certain types of work since 2022. Attic or roof insulation remains eligible, but the grants are lower than before.

The classic CEE scheme continues, albeit at a lower level.

It is still possible to take advantage of the current system. Although the amounts are falling, they are still attractive for reducing the cost of the work. Maximize your savings before further reductions.

Link to the National Low Carbon Strategy

The CEE premium supports the objectives of the Stratégie Nationale Bas Carbone (SNBC). It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by improving roof insulation.

The French government is encouraging this type of work, as roofs account for 30% of heat loss from a dwelling.

The CEE scheme is an integral part of the overall policy, encouraging sustainable energy renovation. This scheme helps to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. These initiatives target energy savings in buildings, a key sector for the ecological transition.

Conclusion

Insulating your roof means savings and greater comfort. It reduces your energy bills. It also adds value to your home. The process is quick and easy.

FAQ

1. What work is eligible for the CEE roof insulation bonus?

Thermal insulation work on roofs is eligible, as is the installation of insulating materials that meet current standards.

2. How much can I get with the Prime CEE for roof insulation?

The amount depends on the energy savings achieved and the surface area insulated. It varies according to the energy supplier and the work carried out.

3. What steps do I need to take to qualify for the CEE bonus?

You must choose an RGE-certified craftsman, sign an estimate before the work is carried out, and submit a file to a participating energy supplier.

4. Who can claim the Prime CEE for roof insulation?

All private individuals can apply for this grant, provided their home is more than two years old and the work complies with the specified technical criteria.

To find out more :

• The tertiary sector decree: role, obligations and solutions
  
  
• What is the amount of the CEE bonus, and what are the differences between professionals and private individuals?
  
  
• What subsidies are available to finance cool roofs?