How to Improve BER Rating and Boost the Value of Your Home

How to improve your BER rating and boost the value of your home. We all dream of warm, energy-efficient homes that are comfortable and cost-effective to run. But did you know that improving your Building Energy Rating (BER) can also significantly boost your property’s value?

Recent research shows that energy-efficient second-hand homes in Ireland achieve an average of €90,000 more than their less efficient counterparts. If you’re planning to sell your home in 2025, now is the time to consider BER improvements that can increase your property’s appeal and selling price.

What is a BER Rating?

The Building Energy Rating (BER) is a measure of a home’s energy performance, ranging from A1 (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It evaluates how much energy your home uses for heating, lighting, and hot water. Homes with better BER ratings are more attractive to buyers due to lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact.

Improving your BER isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also an investment that pays off when it’s time to sell.

Top Tips to Improve Your BER Rating

1. Insulate Your Home

Insulation is one of the most effective ways to enhance your BER and reduce heat loss.

• Low-Cost Option: Focus on attic insulation, which can be affordable and quick to install.
• Long-Term Investment: Upgrade wall insulation through cavity wall filling or external wall insulation for maximum impact.

2. Upgrade Your Heating System

Heating accounts for a significant portion of your energy bill. An upgrade can make your home more efficient.

• Budget-Friendly: Install thermostatic radiator valves or a programmable thermostat.
• Premium Option: Replace old boilers with energy-efficient condensing boilers or install a heat pump for sustainable heating.

3. Draught-Proof Your Home

Seal gaps around windows, doors, and chimneys to prevent cold air from entering.

• DIY Solutions: Use affordable draught-proofing kits.
• Professional Fix: Invest in comprehensive draught-proofing to maximise energy savings.

4. Upgrade Windows and Doors

Replace single-glazed windows with double or triple-glazed units to improve insulation and reduce heat loss. Modern doors with proper seals also contribute to a better BER score.

5. Add Renewable Energy Systems

Installing renewable energy solutions like solar panels or solar water heating systems can significantly enhance your BER. These systems reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and lower your energy bills over time.

6. Install Energy-Efficient Lighting

Switch to LED lighting throughout your home. LEDs use less electricity and last longer, making them an easy and effective upgrade.

7. Conduct a Pre-Sale BER Assessment

Hire an energy expert to assess your home’s current BER and recommend targeted improvements. Acting on these recommendations can help you achieve a better rating when the time comes for your official BER certification.

Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

If you’re working with a limited budget, small improvements can still have a noticeable impact:

• Add insulation to your hot water cylinder and pipes.
• Install a smart thermostat for better temperature control.
• Replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient models.

These smaller upgrades, combined with larger investments, can improve your BER and make your home more attractive to energy-conscious buyers.

Why Improving Your BER is Worth It

As energy prices continue to rise and buyers place increasing importance on sustainability, having a high BER can make your home stand out in a competitive market. By investing in energy-efficiency upgrades, you can enjoy lower utility bills now and higher offers when it’s time to sell.

If you’re considering selling your home in 2025, start your BER improvement journey today. Even minor changes can make a big difference to your home’s value and appeal.

Get Expert Advice selling your property

Our team of experienced estate agents at DNG GALVIN can provide a free valuation and personalised tips to maximise your home’s market potential. Contact us today to learn more about how you can boost your BER rating and achieve the best possible price for your property.

Want more tips on how to improve your BER?

Watch our video where we spoke to John O’Halloran from EnergyWise Ireland. John shared his top tips for improving your BER and highlighted the grants available to help make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable.

Click here to watch the video