BER means building energy rating, a grading system for rating the energy efficiency of a property. The grading can range from A1 (most efficient) to G (least efficient). With an increasing focus on energy costs and the environment, a good BER can help the property gain more appeal and work more efficiently. So, how do you prepare effectively for a BER Assessor Dublin to increase your chances of getting the right ratings?

 

Gathering Essential Documents

It is worth emphasizing that the completeness and accuracy of the documents submitted before the BER assessment greatly affect the rating. Collecting all general documentation containing references to the energy-saving measures and peculiarities of your building’s construction is crucial. Below are guidelines to assist you in collecting the required documents efficiently.

 

1. Proof of Age of Property and Extensions

Other aspects, such as the age of the building and the timeline of any extensions, are critical in BER assessment as they influence the structure and possibly the energy efficiency of your building. Begin by gathering all legal records that may prove the age of the property in question. These might include deeds or land registry entries.

For extensions, gather contractor receipts, planning permission and building regulation approvals. These receipts also bear evidence of the work done and the date of extension, which may influence the assessment, particularly if the extension was done according to the newer building regulations.

 

2. Meter Point Reference for Number (MPRN)

The MPRN is significant because it is a unique number for your property’s electricity connection in the whole network. This number enables the BER assessor Dublin to check the property energy consumption data from the utility company in case of any doubt.

Your MPRN number is printed on any recent electricity bill that you have. It is typically placed at the top of the bill and comprises 11 digits. Having this number easily accessible makes the assessment process faster without dealing with any possible confusion regarding the properties in question.

 

3. Heating Ventilation and Hot Water System Manuals

System manuals are helpful since they provide specific information regarding the energy efficiency and installation profile of your heating, ventilation, and hot water systems. Such documents should contain information on the model, the installation date, efficiency rates, and conformity with the current energy standards.

If improvements or changes have been made, receipts or service records can also help the BER Assessor Dublin better assess those systems’ contribution to the property’s energy efficiency.

 

4. Verification of Energy Efficiency Improvements

Documenting any improvements you make in energy efficiency is important, as these can directly increase your BER. Assemble all supporting papers, including receipts, warranties, and installation certificates for additional work like double glazing, insulation, solar panel installation, or an efficient heating system.

Also, if you achieved government grants or incentives for energy-saving improvements or even documented these, including such evidence, it can further support the enhancements. It is helpful to include the images of the project before and after the transformations to show the changes.

 

Preparing for the Assessment Day

A Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is thorough but intended to cause little or no interference with your normal activities. Preparation is one of the greatest determining factors of the effectiveness of the assessment process. Below is a guide on preparing your residential home or apartment for the BER assessor Dublin visit.

 

 

1. Conducting an Unintrusive Survey

Consequently, the BER assessment is non-invasive by design. It is important to note that assessors do not require disassembling fixtures and structural parts of your property to collect necessary data. To facilitate this:

 

2. Special Considerations for Apartments

Sharing facilities is common in apartments; hence, the BER assessment can be slightly more challenging.

 

3. Preparing Internal Systems

While the assessment does not involve tampering with systems, having them in operational condition can help:

 

4. Communication with the BER Assessor Dublin

To achieve the best results of the BER assessment, it is crucial to have effective communication with your BER assessor Dublin. Consider the following:

 

5. Post-Assessment Considerations

After the assessment, one should explain the initial results to the BER assessor Dublin. Understanding these observations can help identify areas that may be improved or corrected in the future to increase the property’s energy performance.

 

What if You Need All the Documents?

It is possible to do a BER assessment without all the documents listed above; however, it is advisable to be prepared to spend extra time or receive a (usually lower) BER rating. Unfortunately, it is impossible to get a positive BER assessment; however, the overall accuracy of this assessment will increase if more information is provided.

 

 

Conclusion

When planning for a BER assessment in Dublin, it is advisable to amass as many supporting documents as possible for the property’s energy efficiency claims. This preparation facilitates the assessment process and can result in a better BER rating, which is helpful for property re-evaluation and energy efficiency.