As a property owner or potential buyer, you may have come across the term BER certificate in your search for information about energy efficiency. But what exactly is a BER certificate and can you obtain one for a property that is still under construction?
What is a BER Certificate?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate is an official document that rates the energy efficiency of a building on a scale of A to G, with A being the most efficient and G being the least efficient. It is similar to the energy efficiency labels found on household appliances, providing an indication of how much energy a building consumes and how much carbon dioxide it emits. The purpose of a BER certificate is to inform potential buyers or tenants about the energy performance of a property, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their purchase or rental. It also provides recommendations for improving the energy efficiency of the building, which can help reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.When is a BER Certificate Required?
In Ireland, it is mandatory for all properties being sold or rented to have a valid BER certificate.This includes both residential and commercial properties. The certificate must be made available to potential buyers or tenants when the property is put on the market. Additionally, any new buildings or major renovations that require planning permission must also have a BER certificate. This is to ensure that new constructions meet certain energy efficiency standards set by the government.
Can You Get a BER Certificate for a Property Under Construction?
The short answer is no. A BER certificate can only be issued for a completed building that has been constructed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.This means that if a property is still under construction, it is not eligible for a BER certificate. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If the property is being sold off-plan, meaning that the buyer is purchasing the property before it is completed, a provisional BER certificate can be issued. This certificate will be based on the design and specifications of the building and will be valid for two years or until the property is completed. Another exception is for self-build properties. In this case, a provisional BER certificate can be issued based on the design and specifications of the building.
Once the construction is complete, a final BER certificate can be obtained.
Why Can't You Get a BER Certificate for a Property Under Construction?
The reason why a BER certificate cannot be issued for a property under construction is because the energy efficiency of a building can only be accurately assessed once it is completed. The materials used, insulation, ventilation, and other factors can all affect the energy performance of a building. Furthermore, during the construction process, changes may be made to the plans or specifications that could impact the energy efficiency of the building. This is why a provisional BER certificate can only be issued based on the design and specifications of the building.What Can You Do to Improve Energy Efficiency During Construction?
While you cannot obtain a BER certificate for a property under construction, there are steps you can take to ensure that your building will have a good energy rating once it is completed. Firstly, make sure that your architect or builder designs and constructs your building in accordance with energy efficiency standards. This includes using high-quality insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, and efficient heating and cooling systems. You can also consider incorporating renewable energy sources into your building's design, such as solar panels or a heat pump.These can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your building and reduce your carbon footprint. Lastly, make sure to have your building inspected and tested for energy efficiency once it is completed. This will allow you to make any necessary improvements before obtaining a final BER certificate.
