My Home Ireland

Posted by myhome on January 1st, 2009 in BER, Green Building

Building Energy Rating Certificates are now mandatory on existing homes that are put up for sale or rent from today (Jan 1st 2009). Homeowners who are not selling or renting their house do not have to apply for a BER cert. If a house was put on the market before January 1st 2009 – it does not need a BER cert – but soon most buyers will expect to see one – so getting one done will probably help the sale of your house especially if the Energy Rating is a good one ( A, or B) .
SEI has been designated as the Issuing Authority with responsibility for the registration of BER assessors, logging of BER assessments and the overall administration of the BER Scheme. In order to obtain a BER, a homeowner must have an assessment carried out by a certified BER assessor who is trained under the National Framework of Qualifications and registered with SEI. A BER is based on the building’s characteristics, (walls, roofs, floors, windows, doors) as well as levels of insulation, ventilation, lighting, and heating systems, including renewable energy technologies.

Anyone buying or renting a new house or apartment may already be entitled to a BER and should ask the seller/landlord or their agent for it. Along with the BER certificate, they will also receive an Advisory Report which will help identify how to improve the energy performance of the building, reducing the energy costs in the home, and helping them do their bit for the environment.

A BER is valid for up to ten years provided that there is no material change to the dwelling. New homes offered up for sale off plans can be issued with a provisional BER which is valid for a maximum of two years.

Fines of up to €5,000 apply for non-compliance with the regulations.