QNG - The state seal of quality for sustainable building
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QNG - What is the Sustainable Building Quality Seal?
The Quality Seal for Sustainable Buildings (QNG) is a state-recognized seal of quality that makes sustainability in the construction industry transparent. It was developed by the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB) in order to create a uniform understanding of sustainable building and at the same time provide a legally secure basis for subsidies.
Until March 2023, the efficiency house sustainability class (NH class) was mandatory for the federal subsidy for efficient buildings (BEG). The QNG was the proof for the subsidy. Today, this funding has been replaced by the “Climate-friendly new build” (KFN) program, which assesses the sustainability performance over the entire life cycle of a building. The NH class remains relevant for refurbishments and offers attractive funding opportunities.
Quality levels of the QNG
The QNG is available in two levels:
QNG PLUS – meets above-average requirements
QNG PREMIUM – fulfills clearly above-average requirements
Award: The seal is awarded exclusively by independent, accredited bodies.
defines binding requirements for ecologically and socially responsible construction.
To which buildings does the QNG apply?
The QNG is available for various types of buildings – both new builds and complete modernizations.
Residential building (QNG-WG23)
New construction and complete modernization. Valid since 01.01.2023, replaces QNG-KN21 and QNG-WN21.
Non-residential buildings (QNG-NW23)
New construction and complete modernization. Valid since 01.01.2023, replaces NWG-BN22 and NWG-BK22.
How is the QNG awarded?
For a building to be awarded the QNG, it undergoes a clearly structured inspection process. It is awarded exclusively by independent, accredited certification bodies.
Criteria
The Federal Government defines general and special requirements:
Life cycle assessment
Health & comfort
Quality of planning
Construction
Sustainability in the company
Examination
After completion of the construction work, the planning and execution are independently checked.
Certification
A recognized evaluation system is mandatory.
Recognized evaluation systems
Only firmly defined sustainability assessment systems are accepted for the QNG.
DGNB
Non-residential buildings 2013/2018, residential buildings 2018/2021
NaWoh
Sustainable housing construction, Version V3.1
BNK/BNG
for small (< 5 units) and large (> 5 units) residential buildings
BNB
Non-residential buildings 2015 and 2017
FAQ - QNG
What is the QNG?
What quality levels are there?
QNG PLUS: above-average sustainability requirements
QNG PREMIUM: clearly above-average sustainability requirements
For which buildings is the QNG available?
Residential buildings (new construction & complete modernization, QNG-WG23)
Non-residential buildings (new construction & complete modernization, QNG-NW23)
Who awards the QNG?
Accredited, independent certification bodies on the basis of a recognized evaluation system.
Which rating systems are recognized?
DGNB, NaWoh, BNK/BNG, BNB (depending on building type and version).
What role does the QNG play in funding?
Which rating systems are recognized?
DGNB, NaWoh, BNK/BNG, BNB (depending on building type and version).
What funding levels are available?
Residential buildings
– With QNG: up to €150,000 per residential unit
– Without QNG: up to €100,000 per residential unit
Non-residential buildings
– With QNG: up to €3,000/m² (max. €15 million)
– Without QNG: up to €2,000/m² (max. €10 million)