What is a BER?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) is an indication of the energy performance of a building. It covers energy use for space heating, water heating, ventilation and lighting calculated on the basis of standard occupancy. The BER is similar to the energy label for a household electrical appliance. 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. From the 1st January 2009, a BER certificate became compulsory for all homes being sold or offered for rent. If you are buying or renting a house or apartment, you are entitled to a BER so ask the seller, landlord or agent for it. For more information on obtaining BER Cert’s, please look at our pages on obtaining a Domestic BER or a Commercial BER.
The BER certificate is accompanied by an advisory report which will identify how you might improve the energy performance of your home. A Provisional BER/Part L Compliance Report is also required where construction of a new home is planned, the Provisional BER/Part L Compliance Report must be lodged with the Commencement Notice to the local planning authority. See our page Part L Compliance.