Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/21552 establishes an optional common Union scheme for rating the smart readiness of buildings, that is to say the definition of the smart readiness indicator and a common methodology by which such indicator is to be calculated.

That scheme is optional for Member States. Those Member States that opt in to the common scheme should implement it in accordance with this Regulation and Delegated Regulation 2020/2155.

The technical modalities for the effective implementation of that optional common Union scheme are to be detailed in an implementing act.

The assessment of the smart readiness of buildings and building units as part of the smart readiness indicator scheme for the purpose of issuing a smart readiness indicator certificate should be carried out by experts that are qualified or accredited, either operating in a self-employed capacity or employed by public bodies or private enterprises.

Where Member States consider it appropriate, experts accredited for the energy performance certification of buildings, for the inspection of heating, air-conditioning and combined heating or air-conditioning and ventilation systems under Directive 2010/31/EU, and for performing energy audits under Directive 2012/27/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council3, should be allowed to be considered competent to also assess the smart readiness of buildings or building units.

Member States that decide to implement the smart readiness indicator scheme should be allowed to implement a test phase in accordance with the details provided in this Regulation. No legislation is considered necessary for such a test phase, unless a Member State deems that its national context requires such legislation. During this test phase feedback should be allowed to be collected in order to adjust the implementation modalities of the scheme and prepare the review of this Regulation and of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/2155.

The implementation of the smart readiness indicator scheme should make it possible for building or building unit owners, or other stakeholders linked to the building or building unit, such as facility managers, to evaluate the smart readiness of their buildings or building units. However, a smart readiness indicator certificate should only be issued on the basis of such an assessment where performed by a qualified or accredited expert.

The measures provided for in this Regulation are in accordance with the opinion of the Committee referred to in Article 26 of Directive 2010/31/EU,