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Domestic BERs
What is a BER?
A building energy rating is an energy label similar to an appliance label with a scale of ‘A’ - ‘G’. ‘A’ rated homes are the most efficient and ‘G’ rated are the least efficient.
When is a BER required?
A seller must provide a BER to prospective buyers or tenants when a
home is constructed, sold or rented under the following circumstances-
New homes where planning permission was applied for on or after
1st January 2007;
All homes for sale or rent on or after 1st January 2009.
There are exemptions for certain categories of buildings, e.g. protected
structures and certain temporary building (Ref. S.I. No. 666 of 2006).
How is a BER of an existing property carried out?
A survey of the property is carried out to ascertain the dimensions, structure type, insulation levels, types of windows and doors, ventilation, lighting and heating system. The survey usually takes between one and two hours depending on the size and complexity of the dwelling. This information is then interpreted and inputted into SEAI's specialist energy analysis software called DEAP to generate a BER and advisory report which is published on a national database.
How long will a BER remain valid ?
A BER is valid for up to 10 years provided that there is no material change
to the dwelling that could affect its energy performance. The maximum
term of validity of a Provisional BER is 2 years.
It is now a requirement under the current Building Regulations that new dwellings increase the standard energy efficiency to a minimum ‘A2’ rating.
We can provide you with a design specifications generated from the DEAP software and based on construction drawings in order to ensure that your new dwelling meets compliance with Part L of the Technical Guidance Documents
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Grant Applications
Sustainable Energy Ireland currently provides a number of grants for insulation and heating upgrades. We can also provide a BER for upgrade in this instance.
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Commercial/ Non-Domestic BERs
Commercial or Non-Domestic BERs are required for buildings such as factories, warehouses, offices, shops, etc. Please contact us for further information
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Other Services
We can also provide a variety of other services from building surveys, pre-purchase surveys for existing dwellings, snag lists for new dwellings, topographical surveys, measured building surveys, conceptual design with 3D visualisation, through to planning and construction stages of a project including mortgage certification. For more information please contact us below