What is a BER Certificate?  Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) describes the BER Certificate as “an energy label similar to that on your fridge”.  It has demarcated parameters from A to G with A as the most energy efficient home and G as the least energy efficient home.  

Who needs a BER Certificate?  All dwellings both new and existing, to be constructed, sold, leased or rented require a BER Certificate.  There are exceptions to this in that some buildings eg Protected Structures and temporary dwellings etc are exempt. Ref to S.I. No.666 of 2006.  

Why do I need a BER Certificate?  It is a legal requirement and is therefore compulsory.

How long is a BER Certificate valid for?  A BER Certificate is valid for 10 years as long as there is no material alteration to the dwelling effecting its energy performance.

Who is qualified to carry out BER assessments?  Those registered with SEI. 

Brigid Browne is the registered BER Assessor with Fortress Planning and is also independently qualified with Distinction in Building Energy Rating for New and Existing Dwellings through Tipperary Institute.