Commercial Building Energy Rating (BER) Certificates
Building Energy Rating Certificates show the energy performance and C02 emissions of a building. It is quite similar to the energy rating found on all new electrical items such as fridges, microwaves, cookers etc. It is expressed in performance categories which are rated from ‘A' (most efficient) to ‘G' (least efficient). Each BER issued will be accompanied by an advisory report consisting of recommendations for cost-effective improvements to the energy performance of the building.
As a part of carrying out a BER on new buildings compliance with the current building regulations will be checked. For this reason we offer a Commercial BER Plan which checks the design specification before commencing to build. Failing the building regulations will mean no certificate of compliance can be offered when complete!
Who is interested in BER`s?
Up until now, buyers and tenants were totally in the dark as to how energy efficient the building they are considering was. For the first time this will allow buyers and tenants to take energy performance, CO2 emissions and running cost into consideration.
What does a BER cert look like?
When is a Commercial BER legally required?
As of the 1st July 2008 BER's will be required for new non-domestic (commercial) buildings for which planning permission was applied for on or after this date whether being constructed, offered for sale or for rent.
What does IBER Offer?
- Quality assured BER certificates carried out by a qualified assessor train to Honours Degree standard.
- A quick turnaround time from contacting us to obtaining a certificate.
- Very competitive rates.
- Reduced cost BER certificate when you avail of a BER Plan.
What are the legal implications for non-compliance?
- There is a maximum fine of up to €5,000 for not getting a BER when required.
- There is a maximum fine of up to €5,000 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 3 months, or both, for not complying with authorised officers to enter, inspect buildings etc.
Selling/Renting a property ‘Off the Plans'?
A Provisional BER certificate is required to enable a building to be sold or rented “Off the Plans”, during the construction stage. This certificate will remain in date for two years after which a Full BER will be required.
How long does a Full BER Cert last?
A Full BER Cert is valid for 10 years from the date of issue and a provisional cert is valid for 2 years from the date of issue. If a dwelling is purchased “off the Plans” with a provisional cert, then it is the responsibility of the developer to have a full BER carried out before selling the property.
Who can issue BER Certificates?
Only a registered Building Energy Rating assessor can carry out BER Certification. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) is the governing body over BER Certificates and Assessors.
How is a Commercial BER calculated?
A BER for new buildings is calculated using a detailed set of plans and an accompanying specification list for the building.
An interface Software Building Energy Management (iSBEM) software package is used for this calculation process, which takes into consideration the insulation, ventilation, windows/doors, space/water heating and lighting of the building. The calculation process makes standardised assumptions such as the number of people occupying the building, domestic hot water usage, room temperatures etc.