Insulation Airtightness Design for Health and Comfort
Building Energy Ratings

Non Domestic (Commercial) BER Certificates

New Non Domestic (Commercial) Buildings:

BER Certificates are now required by Legislation for new Non Domestic (Commercial) buildings when they are offered for sale or rent. “Sold off plans” Non Domestic (Commercial) buildings require a Provisional BER based upon the design drawings and building specifications plus a Final BER representing the dwelling as constructed when completed.

A Provisional BER may also be required by the Local Authorities before commencement of construction of any new property.

Existing Non Domestic (Commercial) Buildings:

BER Certificates are now required by Legislation for existing Non Domestic (Commercial) buildings when they are offered for sale or rent. (Certain exceptions apply)

In preparing a BER for an existing building a detailed survey and assessment of property including heating and cooling systems must be carried out. If evidence of detailed construction cannot be observed, is covered up and inaccessible age band default values are used to calculate the BER. If we can observe or receive evidence of higher levels of insulation, etc. we can take account of these and through calculation methods usually improve the BER. This procedure requires a higher level of expertise in building services and construction than for domestic buildings and can only be carried out by certain specially qualified assessors.

BER Certificates will by legislation be accompanied by an Advisory Report providing certain cost-effective advice and information on energy saving and suggested practical ways to increase your energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint. Your property value should be increased with a higher rating.

The procedure for preparation of a BER includes the following factors:

  • The size, geometry and exposure of the building.
  • The materials used for the construction of the building.
  • The thermal insulation of the different elements of the building fabric.
  • The ventilation characteristics of the building and ventilation equipment.
  • The efficiency and responsiveness characteristics of the heating system(s).
  • Solar gain through glazed openings of the building.
  • The thermal capacity (thermal mass) of the building fabric.
  • The fuel used to provide space and water heating, ventilation and lighting.
  • Renewable energy generation technologies incorporated in the building.

also see FAQs