If you’re preparing to sell your home, your BER rating is worth paying attention to.
A better energy rating can make your property more attractive to buyers who are thinking about future energy costs, comfort and renovation requirements.
But improving a BER isn’t about making random upgrades and hoping the rating improves.
The best approach is to understand what is affecting your property’s current rating first.
Start With Your Current BER
Before spending money on upgrades, look at your existing BER and Advisory Report.
This can help identify areas where the property’s energy performance could potentially be improved.
Depending on the property, recommendations may relate to insulation, heating, windows, hot water or renewable energy.
Improve Insulation
Insulation plays an important role in the energy performance of a home.
Potential areas for improvement can include:
- Attic or roof insulation
- Wall insulation
- Floor insulation
- Insulation around extensions or renovated areas
The appropriate solution depends on how your property is constructed.
Look at Your Windows and Doors
Older windows and doors can contribute to heat loss.
Replacing them with more energy-efficient alternatives may improve the property’s overall energy performance.
However, windows should be considered as part of the wider building rather than as an isolated upgrade.
Consider Your Heating System
The heating system can have a significant impact on a home’s calculated energy performance.
Depending on the property, improvements could include:
- More efficient heating equipment
- Improved heating controls
- Upgrading hot water systems
- Considering renewable heating technologies
If you’re considering a heat pump, a technical assessment can help determine whether your property is suitable before making a major investment.
Renewable Energy Can Help
Technologies such as solar energy systems may also contribute to improved energy performance.
But again, the right improvement depends on the property.
The most expensive upgrade isn’t necessarily the one that makes the most sense.
Don’t Upgrade Blindly
This is probably the most important point.
If you’re selling your property, it can be tempting to spend money trying to push the BER rating higher.
But you should first understand what your property actually needs.
A BER assessment and Advisory Report can help you identify potential improvement opportunities rather than relying on guesswork.
And if you’re planning larger renovation or heating upgrades, professional technical advice can help you make better decisions.
Does a Better BER Guarantee a Higher Sale Price?
Not necessarily.
A BER rating is only one factor that buyers consider.
Location, condition, size, layout and overall market conditions all matter.
However, an energy-efficient home can give potential buyers greater confidence about the property’s energy performance and future running requirements.
Selling Your Home?
If you need a BER certificate before putting your property on the market, Homecert provides BER assessments across Ireland.
Based in Co. Mayo and operating nationwide, Homecert provides BER assessments, energy consultancy and technical support for homeowners, landlords and property professionals.