Letters for the new tax started being sent out by the Revenue Commissioners at the start of this week with the estimated 1.6m householders liable for the new charge expected to receive one inside the next three weeks.

The new charge has certainly caused some confusion, most notably in relation to what each person is expected to pay.

Last weekend the Revenue Commissioners launched their valuation guide, which is based on the average price of certain types of houses in each electoral area of the country.

This has led to great frustration though as many people with smaller homes in particular areas are seeing their neighbours with bigger homes getting away with falling into the same valuation band as them.

* Are you confident you know the true value of your property?
* Do valuation guides over or undervalue your home?
* Do you feel the entire process is fair?

Let us know what you think!

Under the new regualations the obligation is on the seller and property agent to include the BER on all online and print adverts, brochures, and on "To let" and "For Sale" boards.

Non-compliance could result in a fine of up to € 5000.00 or, in extreme cases up to three months in prison.

The new regulations will mean the BER rating is prominently displayed and will help inform a purchaser or a tenant's decision.  The ESRI last year found that a price premium was being paid for properties with a higher energy rating.

A BER test can typically cost anywhere between € 100 and € 500, but listed properties are exempt from the legislation.

 Jeff Colley, editor of Passive House Magazine suggests that people should bear in mind that it doesn't always follow that a high rating translates into low running costs.   It is a good indication but people should bear in mind that a B-rated building heated by oil may not necessarily be cheaper to run than a D-rated property heated by gas.   Equally a D - rated 50sq m apartment will cost less than an A-rated 500