A Building Energy Rating, or BER, is a rating system for houses that in appearance is very similar to the appliance rating system that you would see on a fridge or washing machine. "A" rated is the highest and "G" rated is the lowest. A BER certificate is required for any new house where planning permission was applied for on or after 1 st January 2007 and from the 1 st January 2009 it will be a requirement for all homes either for sale or for rent.
Who needs one?
It is the requirement of the seller or landlord to have the dwelling rated so the prospective buyer or renter has the energy rating to consider before agreeing to anything.
How is a BER calculated?
To calculate a BER, everything from the type of, construction, space heating, water heating, lighting, to the buildings orientation is measured and taken into account. Then the area of the dwelling is calculated and by following strict guidelines set out by SEI we work out the BER.
How long does a BER last for?
A full BER cert is valid for 10 years providing that there have been no material changes to the dwelling. A provisional cert is valid for 2 years.