SEAI responds to ’conflicting’ advice for DCB homeowners - Donegal Daily

Councillor Joy Beard has received an update from SEAI on ’conflicting advice’ for defective concrete homeowners.Earlier today, the 100% Redress Councillor sough...

Councillor Joy Beard has received an update from SEAI on 'conflicting advice' for defective concrete homeowners.

Earlier today, the 100% Redress Councillor sought 'urgent clarification' from SEAI after receiving advice regarding pre-works BERs (Building Energy Certificates) that, she said, appeared to conflict with the guidance published on its website.

Cllr Beard said it also appeared to conflict with the guidance in its Frequently Asked Questions for Defective Concrete Block homeowners in September.

"It states: “For DCB affected homes, pre-works BERs are not required for SEAI grants.”

"It further confirms that a post-works BER is required before SEAI can review an application for grant payment."

However, after speaking directly with SEAI this morning, Cllr Beard said she was advised that the practical position is more complicated.

Following this, the SEAI responded to Cllr Beard this afternoon and said they removed previous advice due to 'stress' it was causing homeowners.

Cllr Beard shared an email she received from an SEAI representative which said: "I have spoken with the DCB team and they advise that the pre BER requirement was previously on the web site and we removed this due to the stress this was causing some homeowners.

"It was never intended that a blanket exemption would therefore apply and this has been misrepresented and is incorrect.

"As indicated there will be cases where a pre BER is not possible and SEAI will accommodate this.

"Homeowners electing not to get a pre BER will not be entertained and a justification for this position will be requested.

"We do not want to create and stress for a cohort of people who are already in a difficult position and remain open to new solutions in this area."

Commenting on this response, Cllr Beard said: "In relation to the SEAI - I don’t think the right hand knows what the left hand is doing!

"Please speak to whoever is handling your SEAI grant application."