29/09/2026
SEAI has updated its Frequently Asked Questions for homeowners affected by defective concrete blocks.
One important change is that DCB homeowners are no longer required to have a pre-works BER to access SEAI energy-upgrade grants.
This is something I have raised. It made no sense to require a homeowner to pay for an energy rating on a house that is due to be demolished and rebuilt. It was an unnecessary extra cost at a time when families are already carrying enormous financial pressure.
I am glad this requirement has now been removed.
A post-works BER will still be required once the home and eligible energy-upgrade works are complete. This provides the final energy rating needed for the SEAI grant process.
17. Do I need a BER (pre and post works)?
For DCB affected homes, pre-works BERs are not required for SEAI grants.
A post-works BER is required for all programmes.
The updated FAQ also gives useful information on grants for insulation, windows and doors, heat pumps, solar, ventilation and other energy upgrades alongside DCB remediation.
The updated FAQ also confirms the following information:
• SEAI support may be available for insulation, windows and doors, heat pumps, solar, ventilation and EV chargers.
• Homeowners must have approval under the Enhanced DCB Scheme and must receive SEAI approval before any grant-aided energy works begin.
• SEAI funding is separate from the DCB remediation grant. The energy-upgrade cost claimed from SEAI must be additional to the DCB grant and cannot be funded twice.
• A preferred builder can be used, but the energy measures must be completed through the appropriate SEAI-registered installer, One Stop Shop or Community Energy Project Coordinator.
• SEAI has confirmed that alternative construction methods, including ICF, timber frame and rigid insulation within cavity walls, may be eligible for support.
• If an energy measure previously received SEAI support but is removed during demolition, support for the same measure may be available again — provided new materials and products are used.
• A DCB home that has already been demolished may still be eligible, as long as the energy-upgrade works have not yet started.
• Once the post-works BER and Declaration of Works are submitted, SEAI says grant payments are typically made within six weeks, provided all documents are in order.
• SEAI has also added clearer information on finding One Stop Shops working with DCB homes.
The updated FAQ is worth reading before making decisions on your rebuild or energy-upgrade works.
Read the updated FAQ here:
https://www.seai.ie/sites/default/files/2026-09/DCB-Frequently-Asked-Questions%20%281%29.pdf
Please share with anyone who may find it helpful.
