BER Assessment for New Build

This is done "off the plans". The architect or building developer must subsequently "sign off" on the plans, specification and workmanship to confirm that they were constructed as planned. The BER Certificate must be obtained before first occupation of the dwelling.

A Provisional BER Cert may be required by your planning authority. This can only be obtained as an extra to the full BER Cert which will replace it when construction finishes. The maximum lifespan of the Provisional BER Cert is two years. If the planners require only the "xml file" instead of a Provisional BER Cert, we will supply this free of charge.  

The Energy Audit for New-Build

First send us your plans and proposed specifications by e-mail or post together with payment (for both energy audit and BER assessment)  If the exact specifications are still to be decided then give us a brief description of the type of construction planned, (i.e. timber-frame or solid block with cavity etc.) We can specify the thicknesses of insulation that are needed to get a particular U-Value result. Read the Enrate tips on design; larger investment options and passive houses. Most of these tips can be incorporated into any design.

Next we input all the data into the DEAP computer program and generate a preliminary BER result. Following this we might suggest certain improvements to the design which would lead to the finished building getting a better BER result. Sometimes the building will be borderline between two grades and a few minor changes can push it into the next grade, for example from a "B1" to an "A3". It is obviously a lot cheaper for any changes to be made now at the design stage.

If the client wants the completed building to achieve a particular BER rating, say an A or B rating, then we can produce a preliminary specification. That way the client can better appreciate what measures and costs would be required to achieve the desired rating.

Confirmation will be given that the final design will pass part L of the 2008 Building regulations.

At this stage a Provisional BER Certificate can be issued. This may be required by the local planning authority before granting planning permission. It is valid for a maximum of two years but it must be replaced with a full BER before first occupation of the dwelling. The Provisional BER Certificate costs only €50, but you must also pay for the full BER in advance if you choose this option. Provisional BERs can also be used by developers in marketing and promotional material when selling off the plans.

On completion of the dwelling, the full BER Certificate can be issued. A site visit is not necessary by an Enrate assessor, however a signed declaration from the supervising architect or equivalent is required stating that the dwelling has actually been built to the specifications as supplied to Enrate.

Remember, small improvements can result in large savings over time.

BER Certificate only

If the construction is complete or almost finished and you just want a BER certificate then simply send in your signed off plans/specifications and payment. You will not need the Energy Audit or the Provisional BER Cert.

Price List for new-build

Building	BER Certificate	Energy Audit	Total
Homes up to 150m2	€190	€50	€240
Homes of 150m2 to 250m2	€200	€70	€270
Homes larger than 250m2	€230	€90	€320

Issue of a Provisional BER Certificate €50

DEVELOPERS; Remember we can get you the best possible BER rating. We go the extra mile in researching your buildings specifications to find the best U-Values.

If you have multiple units (especially of the same design type) we can offer substantial discounts contact us for more details.