What BER do I need for a green mortgage in Ireland?
Generally a B or better. On certificates from 24 May 2026 that is A0, A or B. On older certificates, lenders such as AIB and EBS accept A1 to B3. PTSB asks for A or B.
BER and mortgages
Green mortgages and your BER (2026)
Several Irish lenders offer lower green mortgage rates for energy-efficient homes. The key is your BER, and the scale changed in May 2026.
Quick answer: Irish lenders’ green mortgage rates are generally for homes with a BER of B or better. On the new scale (certificates from 24 May 2026) that means A0, A or B. On older certificates, lenders such as AIB and EBS accept A1 to B3. Rates and rules change, so always confirm with the lender before you rely on a green rate.
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Green mortgages at a glance
| Usual BER needed | B or better |
|---|---|
| New-scale certificates (from 24 May 2026) | A0, A or B |
| Older certificates | A1 to B3 at lenders such as AIB and EBS |
| Who offers them | Including AIB, EBS, PTSB and Bank of Ireland (EcoSaver) |
| Check | Rates and criteria change. Confirm with the lender |
What the main lenders say
| Lender | BER criteria |
|---|---|
| AIB | A1 to B3 on an older certificate; A0, A or B on a certificate dated after 24 May 2026 |
| EBS | A1 to B3 on an older certificate; A0, A or B on a certificate dated after 24 May 2026 |
| PTSB | A BER of A or B |
| Bank of Ireland | EcoSaver fixed rates linked to your BER; certificates from 24 May 2026 use the new A0 to G scale |
Summarised from each lender’s website. Lenders set and change their own criteria: this is not financial advice.
The BER scale change and your mortgage
On 24 May 2026 the BER scale was simplified to A0, A, B, C, D, E, F and G, dropping sub-bands such as B1, B2 and B3. Certificates issued before then stay valid for 10 years, so lenders now accept both. A home rated B3 on an older certificate would generally qualify at AIB and EBS. Our BER guide explains the new scale and how to find your certificate.
Explore energy upgrades and their grant options in 3D before discussing your BER target.
Check my grantsRaising your BER to reach a green rate
If your home is close to a B, grant-aided upgrades can push it over the line. The usual order is:
- Attic and wall insulation: the lowest-cost improvements.
- Windows and doors, where the glazing is old.
- A heat pump: often the biggest single step up the BER scale.
- Solar PV: adds to the rating and lowers bills.
A One Stop Shop project targets at least B on the standard route. The Traditional Homes Pilot has a different BER requirement; confirm the resulting BER and your lender’s criteria before relying on a green mortgage rate. See the Traditional Homes Pilot conditions.
Your home in 3D
Explore the upgrades before you decide.
Select an upgrade on our 3D home to compare grant options, conditions and typical costs. When you are ready, choose the work you want and request a quote from one registered contractor who covers your county. The figures are guidance; your contractor checks the work and SEAI decides grant eligibility.
Frequently asked questions
My BER certificate says B3. Is that still OK?
Older certificates stay valid for 10 years, and lenders such as AIB and EBS accept A1 to B3 on them. Check with your lender.
Can I switch to a green rate after upgrading my home?
Some lenders let existing customers move to a green rate once a new BER shows the home qualifies. Ask your lender how it works for you.
How can I raise my BER to a B?
Usually by insulating the attic and walls, upgrading old windows, and switching to a heat pump. SEAI grants cover part of each. The standard One Stop Shop route targets at least B; the Traditional Homes Pilot does not require that result. Confirm the proposed outcome with your retrofit professional and the mortgage criteria with your lender. See the Traditional Homes Pilot conditions.
Can HomeGrants help?
With the grants side, yes: our 3D home explorer lets you compare energy upgrades, grant conditions and typical costs. It does not predict your final BER or confirm a mortgage offer. Discuss the work with a registered assessor, and mortgage rates and eligibility with your lender or a mortgage broker.
Related guides
Sources and review
The full source review remains . The Traditional Homes Pilot route and its BER exception were checked on . Other figures and conditions retain their earlier review dates.