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🏠 Ireland’s Upcoming Minimum BER Cert Standards for Rental Properties: What Landlords Need to Know

  • Mihai
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Building Energy Rating Certificate (BER Cert) highlighting minimum energy efficiency standards required for rental properties in Ireland.
Minimum BER Certificate Requirement for Rental Properties in Ireland

Ireland is advancing its commitment to energy efficiency in the housing sector by planning to introduce minimum Building Energy Rating (BER) standards for private rental properties. This initiative, part of the government's Housing for All strategy, aims to enhance living conditions, reduce energy consumption, and contribute to national climate goals.


📅 Minimum BER Cert Implementation Timeline

While the original plan targeted 2025 for the introduction of minimum BER standards, recent developments indicate a postponement. The government has faced criticism for stalling on this commitment, with environmental groups emphasizing the urgency of addressing energy inefficiencies in the rental sector.

A proposed legislative roadmap suggests a phased approach:

  • By end of 2026: Minimum BER of D2

  • By end of 2028: Minimum BER of C1

  • By end of 2030: Minimum BER of B2

This progression aligns with broader climate objectives and reflects the need for substantial upgrades in the rental housing stock.


🏚️ Current State of Rental Properties

A significant portion of Ireland's rental properties have low energy efficiency:

  • Over 55% of private rentals have a BER of D or worse

  • Approximately 20% are rated F or G

These statistics underscore the pressing need for energy efficiency improvements in the rental sector.


💶 Financial Implications for Landlords

Upgrading properties to meet higher BER standards entails considerable investment:

  • Estimated Costs: Retrofitting a G-rated property to a B rating could cost approx. €43,000; upgrading a C-rated property may cost just under €30,000.

  • Aggregate Investment: Total estimated cost to bring all Irish rentals to a B rating is €7–8 billion.

  • Landlord Capacity: Nearly half of landlords may struggle to finance upgrades exceeding €25,000.

This highlights the need for accessible financial support mechanisms.


🛠️ Available Support and Resources

To support landlords:

  • SEAI Grants: Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, Better Energy Homes Scheme

  • Tax Incentives: Deduct retrofit costs under Case V rental income

  • Low-Cost Loans: Green Mortgages, SBCI Home Energy Upgrade Loans

Learn more: seai.ie


🔧 Technical Guidance for Energy Upgrades

Landlords seeking to improve BER ratings can refer to these resources:

📢 Need Help with Your BER Assessment?

At MTS DNC Energy Consultants Limited, we provide accurate and up-to-date BER assessments based on the latest SEAI standards. Whether you're renovating, building, or just curious about how your current building ranks, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today for expert advice and a tailored assessment.


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