Do I need a BER Cert in Cork?
A BER certificate is a legal requirement for anyone selling or renting a property in Ireland, including Cork. The BER cert provides important information about the energy efficiency of the property, allowing potential buyers or renters to compare it to other properties in the area and make informed decisions.
If you are planning on selling or renting your property, you must first obtain a valid BER certificate before advertising the property. Failure to do so can result in fines and legal action. Once you complete a BER assessment of your property the BER cert will be valid for 10 years.
In addition to being a legal requirement, a BER certificate can also be a valuable marketing tool for property owners. A better BER rating can make a property more attractive to potential buyers or renters, as it indicates that the property is more energy efficient and will therefore have lower energy bills. Additionally, potential purchasers may be able to avail of lower mortgage rates if the BER rating meets their banks criteria for a ‘green mortgage’.
A BER assessment is also required when applying for certain SEAI grants, such as the Better Energy Homes scheme. These grants provide funding for energy efficiency upgrades such as solar panels, insulation and heating upgrades. By obtaining a BER certificate, property owners can ensure that they are eligible for these grants and can take advantage of the financial benefits they provide.
If you are applying for a ‘green mortgage’ your bank may also require you to provide them with a BER certificate. Your bank will have a minimum BER rating that you must achieve in order to avail of their green mortgage rates.
Lastly, a BER assessment must also be completed and a BER rating assigned before a new build home is first occupied. This is to ensure that the property meets minimum energy efficiency standards. By ensuring that new homes are built to these standards, the Irish government can reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, helping to create a more sustainable future.
If you require a BER assessment in Cork please give us a call on (021) 202 1211. Alternatively, you can submit a quote request here and one of our BER assessors will contact you with a quote and to discuss your BER.