Domestic BER (Building Energy Rating)
What is a Domestic BER (Building Energy Rating)?
A Domestic BER is an indication of the energy performance of a home.
It covers energy use for space heating, water heating, ventilation and lighting calculated on the basis of standard occupancy.
A BER is similar to the energy label for a household electrical appliance like your fridge. The label has a scale of A-G. A-rated homes are the most energy efficient and will tend to have the lowest energy bills.
To view a sample BER certificate, click here.
What is a Domestic BER used for?
A BER (Building Energy Rating) is used to determine how energy efficient a home is. It gives details of how much energy is used, W/m2K, per year and how much carbon is produced, kg/m2, per year.
It allows potential buyers/letters to understand how much it will cost to run the property.
It is also used by the SEAI as part of their Better Energy Homes Scheme to validate the improvements.
Who requires a BER (Building Energy Rating)?
Anyone selling or renting a property is required to have a valid BER (Building Energy Rating) certificate.
If you are availing of the SEAI Better Energy Homes Scheme then you will require a BER (Building Energy Rating) to be carried out on completion of the improvements.
What does a Domestic BER (Building Energy Rating) Assessment entail?
A Domestic BER (Building Energy Rating) assessment evolves a detailed survey of your home; including measuring of the building footprint, glazing levels & types, the building’s construction and an investigation into the heating system/s.
How much does it cost?
ber4less charge from €120 for all apartments and terrace houses and from €130 for semi-detached and detached houses.
How long does it take?
The BER (Building energy Rating) assessment usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the house. Once the assessment is complete the cert is usually sent out within one working week.
