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Do I need a BER to rent out a property?

Yes. A valid BER certificate is required when a property is offered for sale or rent, and the rating must be shown in the advertisement. Limited exemptions apply, mainly to certain protected structures and temporary buildings.

The BER must be obtained before the property is advertised, and the rating and advisory report should be available to prospective tenants. Enforcement is by SEAI, and penalties can apply for advertising without a rating.

A BER is valid for ten years provided no material change is made to the dwelling that would affect its energy performance.

Common exemption categories

  • Protected structures in certain circumstances
  • Buildings used as places of worship
  • Temporary buildings with a planned use of two years or less
  • Certain non-residential agricultural buildings with low energy demand

Sources

Last reviewed 28 August 2026. General information only — not legal or planning advice.

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