In Ireland, a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate is legally required if you are selling, renting or buying a home. Find out more about BER ratings.
What is a BER Rating? Why do I need this?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate indicates your homes energy performance, similar to the labels which you might see on your household appliances. It rates the energy performance of your home on a scale from A to G. While A-rated homes are the most energy efficient and will tend to have the lowest energy bills, homes which are G-rated are the least energy efficient.
When selling or renting a property in Ireland, it is legally required to provide a BER certificate.
How is a BER Rating calculated?
A BER is calculated based on the amount of energy the home requires for:
- Space and hot water heating.
- Ventilation.
- Lighting.
What can affect a BER Rating?
The BER Rating that your property receives can be affected by a number of things, including:
- Age of construction.
- Floor area.
- Thermal insulation.
- Windows and doors.
- Heating systems and controls.
- Light fittings.
- Renewables.
How do I prepare for a BER Rating assessment?
BER assessments are carried out by independent registered assessors. You can find your local BER assessor through the SEAI National Register of BER Assessors or arrange one with ERA Downey McCarthy before placing your property on the market. The SEAI website provides a handy checklist of what you will need, or you can discuss how to prepare with one of our property experts.