BER Certification

Building Energy Rating (BER) Assessor Services, Donegal

What is a Building Energy Rating (BER) Certificate?

A Building Energy Rating or BER is similar to the energy label on your fridge with a scale of A-G. A-rated homes are the most energy efficient and G the least efficient. A BER certificate is compulsory for almost all new homes.

Who is entitled to a BER?

A seller must provide a BER to prospective buyers or tenants when a home is constructed, sold or rented under the following circumstances:

• New dwellings that have applied for and have been granted planning permission on or after 1 January 2007.
  
• Non Residential buildings that have applied for and have been granted planning permission on or after 1 July 2008.
  
• All homes for sale or rent on or after 1st January 2009

There are exemptions for certain categories of buildings, e.g. protected structures and certain temporary building (Ref. S.I. No. 666 of 2006). There are fines of up to €5,000 for non-compliance with the regulations.

BER Certificate - New Dwellings

As mentioned a BER Certificate are compulsory for all new dwellings. To obtain a BER Certificate, the person or organization building the new dwelling will engage a BER assessor to carry out the BER assessment. A BER certificate and advisory report will be issued by the BER assessor on the basis of the plans and specifications of the new dwelling "as constructed".

Selling from plans?

Where a building is being offered for sale or letting on the basis of plans and specifications, a provisional BER certificate must be available. A provisional BER certificate lapses on completion of the building or after 24 months, whichever is the sooner. On completion of construction, a full BER certificate and relevant advisory report is required to be presented to the purchaser or tenant prior to taking occupancy of the building.

BER CERTIFICATE – EXISTING PROPERTIES

ALL Dwellings offered for sale or rent are required to have a BER Certificate. A BER of an existing dwelling must be carried out by a BER assessor, at the expense of the vendor or landlord - who must provide the resulting BER certificate and advisory report to prospective buyers/tenants.

AIR PERMEABILITY TESTING

What is Air Permeability Testing?

It is the testing of the uncontrolled flow / leakage of air through the envelope cavities that can be created by structural damage, poor workmanship, weather, design or deterioration of materials.

What is air leakage?

Air leakage is the uncontrolled flow of air through gaps and cracks in the fabric of a building (sometimes referred to as infiltration or draughts). This is not to be confused with ventilation, which is the controlled flow of air into and out of the building through purpose built ventilators that are required for the comfort and safety of the occupants from cold draughts. The increasing need for higher energy efficiency in buildings and the need in future to demonstrate compliance with more stringent Building Regulations targets means that air tightness has become a major performance issue. The aim should be to 'Build tight – ventilate right'. Taking this approach means that buildings cannot be too airtight, however it is essential to ensure appropriate ventilation rates are achieved through purpose built ventilation openings.

As of 1st July 2008, under the revised Part L Building Regulations, new dwellings require air pressure testing. MK Building Services have fully certified personnel who will carry out this test.

THERMAL IMAGING

What is Thermal Imaging?

Infrared Thermography enables us to see and measure heat. Infra-Red heat cannot be seen by an unaided human eye. Thermal Imaging surveys, using infra-red images, can identify where heat is being lost from buildings and heat distribution systems. It can also be used to identify faults in other areas including electrical, mechanical and plumbing systems. Removing unnecessary heat loss can significantly reduce energy costs.

A thermal image makes it simpler to see where insulation is missing or air is leaking in or out of the building.

Why have a Thermal Image Survey?

• Perform Home Energy Audit to identify deficiencies in house build. Heat losses, humidity and air leaks are instantly visible on colourful thermal images.
  
• Identify water leakages in under floor heating systems
  
• Identify inadequate or ineffective insulation - By visualising areas of energy loss, or "thermal bridges", faulty locations are easily located
  
• Identifying causes of excessive condensation and areas of mould growth
  
• Finding leaks in flat roofs
  
• Review operating efficiency of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning
  
• Identification of excessive heat spots – which indicate future risk of fire

Independent Service

At MK Building Services we offer an independent, high quality and cost effective energy audit service with on-going back-up and support to our clients. We see the importance of having an energy efficient home and recognize the there are potential savings to be made in nearly every dwelling.

If you would like more information then please do not hesitate to contact us.

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