Guideline VDI 3807 applies to the determination and application of energy and water consumption characteristics for buildings and real properties to which final energy (heating energy including district heat, electricity) and water are supplied. Characteristic consumption values are valid for entire buildings and are determined from measured consumption values subject to the effects of various quantities (such as thermal insulation of the building, utilisation ratio of the heating system, use of the building, internal heat sources and drains, passive use of solar energy, behaviour of the user). Partial characteristics can be derived and/or calculated from measured values. In doing so, the information given in Parts 3, 4 and 5 have to be observed. When comparing characteristic values, building- and user-specific aspects must be considered.