B.E.R. (Building energy rating)

A BER (Building Energy Rating) is a standard calculation of the energy performance of a building. This is produced by a qualified and registered assessor using methods and procedures developed by the SEAI and usually includes a survey of the building. It is similar to the mpg or l/km rating for a car or the A to G rating for household electrical appliances.

Not necessarily, unless you are about to sell, rent or substantially modify your home then you do not currently require a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate.
If you are selling, renting or extending any dwelling in Ireland you must obtain a valid BER Certificate. This will enable potential purchasers/renters to compare properties on the basis of their energy efficiency and therefore their running costs. A BER certificate is normally valid for 10 years unless the building is modified or extended before normal expiration. Further information can be found at www.seai.ie

Not any more, BER's have been introduced on a phased basis, and since 1st Jan 2009 are applicable to all buildings, new and existing, when offered for rent, sale or when undergoing substantial refurbishment or extension.

As and from January 1st 2009, you legally require a B.E.R. when selling, leasing or renting a property belonging to you. Failure to comply could result in a fine of €5000, imprisonment of up to 3 months, or both.

The BER will make the energy performance characteristics of the building transparent to prospective buyers and tenants. As a result, prospective buyers and tenants will be able, for the first time, to take energy performance into consideration in their decision to purchase or rent a building. Overall, the message in a market context is: "information is power". BER is about equipping the consumer with information and the consequent power to act in their own best interests.

Generally speaking, no. When a BER certificate is issued it should be accompanied by basic recommendations for improvements. It is however entirely a matter for the property owner to decide if any of the recommendations should be implemented. There is no obligation to improve the energy rating of any existing building. However in the case of a new building, extensions and certain renovations the owner must ensure that the latest building regulations are met. Doing so may involve a degree of improvement in order to achieve compliance.

The requirements of the EPBD apply to most buildings, residential and otherwise. However under S.I. 66 of 2006 certain exemptions are permitted, these are primarily monuments, religious buildings, historically significant buildings and certain agricultural  buildings. 

Prices for existing dwellings start from just  €150 inclusive of all relevant charges. Costing for BER cert may be based on construction detail rather than building size.