QNG — Quality Seal for Sustainable Buildings (Qualitätssiegel Nachhaltiges Gebäude)

Definition

The Quality Seal for Sustainable Buildings (QNG) was developed by the Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB). It evaluates buildings across their entire life cycle on the basis of ecological, sociocultural and economic criteria. Assessed factors include greenhouse gas emissions, primary energy demand, pollutants in building materials, indoor air quality, accessibility and use flexibility. Awards are issued by accredited certification bodies working with qualified auditors. There are two stages: QNG-Plus as the baseline and QNG-Premium for particularly demanding requirements. A complete life cycle assessment (eco-balance according to DIN EN 15978) is required. The QNG is closely linked to the sustainability class (NH) of KfW funding and is therefore a mandatory component for the highest funding stage.

When is the term used?

The QNG is mandatory for the sustainability class (NH) in the KfW funding programmes 261 for renovation and 297/298 for new construction. Applicants choosing the NH class typically receive a significantly increased repayment subsidy. The certification effort should not be underestimated: detailed material documentation, an eco-balance and a continuous process from planning to completion are required. For existing buildings the QNG is more demanding than for new construction, as legacy materials are often difficult to document.

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