Renovating in Morges: A practical guide for property owners

9 °C and about 43 frost days per year.2 °C, heating requirements are significant, measured at 2681 Kj/year. These conditions demand a high-performance thermal envelope to ensure interior comfort while optimizing energy consumption.

The urban landscape of Morges is evolving rapidly. Between 2020 and 2022, more than 900 new homes were built, placing the city within a regional densification dynamic alongside Lausanne or Nyon.

For owners, this means that renovation often occurs within a dense urban fabric where space management and the preservation of quality of life are essential. The energy transition is at the heart of municipal issues with the 'Cité de l'énergie' label and the goal of carbon neutrality for the territory by 2050.

Energy renovation in Morges is based on a targeted improvement of the building envelope. The 'Programme Bâtiments' offers subsidies for the thermal insulation of walls and roofs, as well as for the replacement of windows.

The goal is to reduce heating needs, which is essential given the local climatic conditions, while improving thermal comfort and enhancing the value of the property.

Investments aimed at saving energy are tax-deductible. The deduction rate is 100% for the costs of replacing old building elements aimed at streamlining consumption. If these costs exceed the net income, they can be carried forward to the two following tax periods.5 tons by 2050.

The city of Morges is actively developing its district heating network. Morges Energies SA, owned by the City and Romande Energie, manages the 'CAD Morges Nord' project, based on wood chips combustion, with an expansion planned until 2031.

A first network using energy from wastewater from the treatment plant has been in operation since 2018. Connecting to district heating is a preferred alternative to fossil fuel systems.

For individual homes, replacing a fossil fuel or electric heating system with a heat pump is strongly encouraged. The 'Programme Bâtiments' grants subsidies depending on the type and power of the installation.

Regarding permits, the installation of a heat pump is generally subject to the simplified procedure or exempt from a building permit. However, noise pollution must be taken into account for air-water or air-air models to ensure respect for the neighborhood.

Managing work in Morges requires special attention, especially in the historic center. Although many jobs, such as changing windows or installing solar panels, are subject to a simplified procedure or exempt from permits, the context changes if the building is protected or located in a protected area.

Consultation with the building police office is essential.

For projects in the old town, particularly the creation of roof openings, the application must be submitted for approval to the 'Service Immeubles, Patrimoine et Logistique' (SIPAL) of the Canton of Vaud, Monuments and Sites Section.

Photovoltaic installations, although largely simplified, may require a public or administrative investigation for protected buildings. Anticipating these steps helps secure the project schedule.

The information provided here is indicative; it is always recommended to validate your project with the competent authorities before ordering any materials.

The financial support system in Morges relies largely on the 'Programme Bâtiments', which subsidizes thermal insulation, windows, solar thermal energy, and heat pumps. For photovoltaics, a one-time federal remuneration is provided, calculated based on the power of the installation.

These grants significantly reduce the initial investment amounts.

Regarding taxation, the owner can choose each year between the deduction of effective costs (maintenance, energy renovations) or a lump-sum deduction. The lump-sum deduction varies from 10% to 30% depending on the age and usage of the building (own residence or rented out, less or more than 20 years old).

Warning : if you choose the deduction of effective costs for energy saving works, you cannot claim the lump-sum deduction for the same tax period. Costs exceeding the net income can be carried forward to the two following tax periods, thus offering valuable flexibility for large-scale projects.

Successful renovation in Morges begins with rigorous planning. It is advisable to start with an energy audit to prioritize interventions: the envelope (facade, roof, windows) should be addressed before the heating system to correctly size the necessary power.

Check the 'Programme Bâtiments' website to verify the eligibility of the measures before signing any quotes, as this is a necessary condition for obtaining certain grants.

When choosing companies, prioritize local providers accustomed to Vaud-specific requirements and heritage needs. Verify their references and ensure they master the simplified procedures in force in Morges. Do not hesitate to ask for several comparative quotes.

4 °fH), plan, during plumbing or thermal system installation work, to integrate a softener if necessary to preserve your equipment. Good communication with your contractor regarding potential administrative delays related to the building permit is also a sign of serenity.