Domestic BER assessments
A Building Energy Rating is the official A to G measure of a home's energy performance. It is required by law when you sell, rent or complete a new build, and for most SEAI grant applications. Austin Kielty carries out every assessment personally.
When do you need a BER?
When a home is offered for sale or for rent, before a new dwelling is occupied, and for most SEAI home energy grant schemes.
- Selling. Needed before the property is advertised, with the rating shown in the ads. Solicitors look for the cert at contract stage.
- Renting. Landlords must provide a BER to prospective tenants, and the rating must appear in lettings advertising.
- New builds. Needed before the home is occupied or sold. Austin also handles the Part L compliance and technical advice on the same project.
- Grants. SEAI schemes generally require a BER once the works are done. A technical assessment beforehand makes sure the works actually reach the target.
What you get
Your BER certificate and its advisory report, both published on the SEAI National Register. The advisory report lists the upgrades that would move your rating, which is useful whether you are selling, planning works or weighing up a grant.
Common questions
How long does a BER assessment take?
The on-site survey of a typical home takes in the region of one to two hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property. After the survey, the assessment is completed in SEAI’s DEAP software and the certificate is published on the SEAI National Register. Austin will give you a date for the visit and the cert when you enquire.
How long is a BER certificate valid?
A BER certificate is valid for up to ten years, provided no material changes are made to the dwelling in that time. If you upgrade the insulation, heating or windows, a new assessment can capture the improved rating.
What should I have ready for the assessor?
Access to the whole house, including the attic. If you have them, the MPRN from an electricity bill, documentation for any insulation upgrades or heating works, and drawings for newer homes all help the assessment reflect the house accurately. Documented upgrades can be credited where default values would score lower.
How much does a BER cost?
Every home is different, so Austin quotes each assessment individually rather than working off a flat price list. Send the details through the enquiry form or call 086 238 4520.