The introduction of minimum BER standards for rental properties in Ireland is one of the most discussed topics in the property sector. Here's what we know, what's proposed, and what landlords should be doing now.
What's Being Proposed?
The Irish government has signalled its intention to introduce minimum energy performance standards for rental properties as part of Ireland's Climate Action Plan. The proposals have discussed requiring rental properties to meet a minimum BER of B2, with some discussion of a phased approach starting with a less stringent requirement and tightening over time. The exact standard and timeline continue to be debated, with concerns about the cost burden on landlords, the impact on housing supply, and the practical challenges of retrofitting older properties.
What's the Current Situation?
As of early 2026, there is no legally enforced minimum BER standard for existing rental properties. The current legal requirement is simply that a valid BER certificate must exist and be displayed in advertisements. A landlord can legally rent a property with a G rating, the worst possible, as long as a valid BER cert is in place. However, the current requirement means you still need a BER certificate for every rental unit. See our complete guide to BER for landlords.
Why You Should Act Now. Not Wait
Even without a firm legal deadline, there are compelling reasons to start improving your rental property's BER now rather than waiting.
Avoid the rush. When minimum standards are formally announced, there will be a surge in demand for both BER assessments and retrofit contractors. Prices will rise and waiting times will extend. Landlords who act early get better pricing and availability.
SEAI grants are available now. Current SEAI grants cover a significant portion of upgrade costs, but grant budgets and amounts can change. Locking in grants at current levels is prudent. See our SEAI grants guide and use the grant calculator on HomeEnergyGuide.ie.
Better BER = higher rents. Energy-efficient properties attract better tenants and can command higher rents. In a competitive rental market, a B-rated apartment stands out against a D-rated one.
Reduced void periods. Tenants increasingly factor energy costs into their rental decisions. A warm, efficient home lets faster and keeps tenants longer.
What Would It Cost to Comply?
The cost depends entirely on your property's current rating and construction type. For a 1990s apartment with electric heating currently rated D, replacing the heating system might be the only change needed, potentially €3,000–€5,000 after grants. For a 1970s house rated E, a more comprehensive package of insulation, heating, and windows might cost €10,000–€20,000 after grants. For older solid-wall properties rated F or G, a deep retrofit via the One Stop Shop scheme could cost €15,000–€30,000 after grants of up to €25,000. See our before and after examples for realistic scenarios.
The First Step
The first step for any landlord is to know where you stand. A BER assessment with advisory report will tell you your current rating, what's dragging it down, and exactly which upgrades would bring you to B2 or whatever standard is eventually required. From there, you can budget and plan on your own terms.
Get your rental property assessed: Call Justin on 087 777 4155. We assess rental properties across Dublin 7 days a week, including evenings to work around tenant schedules. For landlord energy obligations, see HomeEnergyGuide.ie/landlords.