Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 July 2023
86. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the progress on the commitment in Housing for All to implement a minimum building energy rating requirement for rental properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33188/23]
View answerThe Government is committed under Housing for All to developing a roadmap to implement minimum Building Energy Rating (BER) standards, or ‘Cost Optimal’ equivalent, for the private rental sector beginning in 2025. This action is a key plank of Government policy in regard to both improving the quality of housing stock available to rent and in meeting our overall national climate targets in relation to emissions reduction. It will increase energy efficiency, help to alleviate fuel poverty, help to protect tenants' health and improve comfort levels in rental homes.
Work in this area, which will support the objectives set down in the Government’s Climate Action Plan, is ongoing and on schedule. It will be underpinned in the first instance by detailed research currently being undertaken by the ESRI in partnership with my Department. The primary focus of this research is the split-incentive effect with respect to energy upgrades in the rental sector. I expect this research to be completed this year.
The results of the ESRI analysis will inform the Government’s next steps in this area. The appropriate balance will need to be struck between this action point and the potential impact any intervention may have on the rental market, particularly around availability of accommodation. I expect the Government to be in a position to bring forward proposals for a minimum BER in the private rented sector in line with the target set down in Housing for All.
