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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a BER Certificate?

Please see our ‘About BER’ page for detailed information.

A BER (Building Energy Rating) Certificate indicates your building / home energy performance. It is similar to the energy label attached to household appliances.

The certificate rates your building / home on a scale of A-G, A-rating being the most energy efficient generally with lower energy / fuel bills, and G-rating being the least energy efficient.

When do I need a BER Certificate?

A BER Certificate is required when selling or renting a property. It must be included in all advertising, and it is therefore required before the property is placed on the market so that prospective buyers or tenants can see the Building Energy Rating.

You also need a BER Certificate where you are carrying out grant works to your home.

How long is a BER Certificate valid for?

A BER Certificate is valid for 10 years. The exception is if a material change is carried out to the property (for example an extension, change in layout, or change in heating system) in which case a new BER Certificate is required to reflect the change.

Who will carry out my BER?

We work with very experienced SEAI registered BER Assessors.

How long does it take to get my BER?

We understand that most people requiring a BER Certificate are keen to get it quickly to place the property on the market. Your BER will always be carried out as soon as is possible. This can vary based on current business levels but will always generally be a matter of a few days.

The BER Assessor visit to your home will generally be 45 Minutes to an hour and a half in duration.

How much does a residential BER Certificate cost?

This varies based on the property type and size.

Please see our Rates Page for a residential BER Quote, and our Commercial Page for Commercial BER enquiries.

What do I need on the day of the BER inspection?

The assessor will require your MPRN number. This is contained on your electricity bill. BER Certificates are registered with the SEAI using this number.

The assessor will also require your email address for correspondence and to issue your BER Certificate and Advisory Report.

The BER Assessor visit to your home will generally be 45 Minutes to an hour and a half in duration. All rooms must be accessible at the time of inspection.

The assessor will complete and submit all details to the SEAI. The SEAI will then publish a BER Certificate and Report. This will be forwarded to you by email.

Payment is required on the day of the inspection, and the BER Certificate and Advisory Report will be issued in due course by email.

How can I improve my Building Energy Rating?

You may wish to improve your BER to make your home warmer, reduce your energy / fuel costs, and improve its appeal to buyers or tenants.

Your BER Assessor will give you an Advisory Report with your BER Certificate recommending the best energy saving improvements for your building.

The following are typical examples of works which could improve your BER.

  • Improving Attic, Wall and Floor Insulation.
  • Hot water cylinder and Pipework insulation / lagging.
  • Draught stripping to remove / minimise draughts at windows and doors.
  • Insulate and draught strip the attic hatch door.
  • Measures to achieve controlled healthy ventilation.
  • Install hit and miss vent covers at wall vents. *Note that any fireplace room should have a permanent open type vent to help prevent Carbon Monoxide.
  • Installing energy efficient glazing. Upgrade windows are more desirable, but more expensive also.
  • Install low energy light bulbs.
  • Plastering over any unused fireplace.
  • Where an open fireplace is in use, fitting a stove is more efficient and will improve your BER.
  • Upgrade an aged central heating boiler to a more modern efficient type.
  • Installing modern heating controls.
  • Install thermostatic radiator valves.
  • Installing renewable energy systems such as solar water heating.

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