What is a BER (Building Energy Rating) for a new house?

How it works in Ireland

The rating comes from the same DEAP calculation your designer uses to show the house meets NZEB. A provisional BER from the plans is often needed early, for example for planning or a lender. It is valid for up to 24 months. After the house is built, the assessor visits, checks the as-built details and issues the final BER and advisory report.

From 24 May 2026 the simplified scale uses A0, A, B, C, D, E, F and G, replacing earlier subcategories such as A1 and B2. A0 is for highly efficient buildings without fossil-fuel use. The change does not invalidate an older certificate. If your lender specifies an older rating such as A2, ask how it applies that condition to the new certificate.

For a self-build, the final BER is often a condition of the lender’s final drawdown, and the evidence helps when the house is sold. If you sell or let the house you must produce the certificate to anyone who expresses interest and state the rating in advertisements.

Book the assessor before the walls are closed up. They need evidence of what is inside: insulation, airtightness test results and the specification of the heating system and any panels. Photographs taken during the build can save a lot of argument. Keep the certificate with the rest of your completion papers.

A common mistake

Leaving the BER until after the move. The rules require it before first occupation, and the final payment may depend on it. Also, if you change the heating system or add a large extension later, the certificate can become invalid. Book the final BER as the finishes go in.