What is a BER ?

A Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate indicates your home’s energy performance on a grading scale, similar to the energy label for household appliances that indicates the level of energy consumption by an appliance. 

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The cert generally rates the energy performance of your home on a scale of A-G. 

A-rated homes are regarded as the most energy-efficient ones, and they also benefit from the lowest energy bills. At the opposite end of the scale, G-rated homes are the least energy-efficient with very high energy bills.

 

Since 2007, a BER certificate is mandatory for all the buildings being constructed, offered for rent or sale in Ireland. In conjunction with Building Regulations for new homes and homes where significant upgrades are planned ,This ensures that all new dwellings are being developed and built in a way that incorporates energy-efficient designs, materials, and appliances in line with the Programme for Government's sustainability objectives.

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When someone rents a specific home, they’re in a position to estimate their energy bills based on the home’s BER rating. When in the market for buying a house, potential buyers can also project energy bills based on the home’s BER rating. This essentially means that having a high BER rating greatly improves the value of your home.

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A BER certificate is usually valid for up to 10 years, given that there are no material changes to a home that could lead to significant changes in energy performance.

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Download the pre-assessment checklist here: 

https://www.seai.ie/publications/BER-Homeowner-Checklist.pdf