BERDO Boston 2025: Your Q2 Compliance Roadmap
If you think you’re done with BERDO reporting just because the May 15 deadline passed, think again. Q2 is when the real scrutiny begins. The City of Boston is now reviewing all building submissions for the Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO), checking every detail—energy use, emissions data, and verification documents. Even small mistakes, like uploading an old emissions report or forgetting third-party verification, can lead to audit flags and costly penalties.
This guide walks you through your Q2 compliance responsibilities under BERDO 2.0. Whether you manage a large office building in Back Bay or a multifamily property in Dorchester, the key to avoiding fines and public penalties is getting your submission right—and keeping it updated. We’ll show you what the city looks for, how to verify your emissions data, and how to use Q2 to set up long-term compliance success.
What BERDO Compliance In Q2 Really Means
By now, most Boston building owners have submitted their 2024 energy and emissions data through the BERDO portal. But submission doesn’t mean compliance. The city is now checking whether the data is accurate, verified, and aligned with emissions limits. If your building’s emissions are too high, or your documents are missing, Q2 is your window to fix it before penalties begin.
One of the biggest Q2 priorities is BERDO Third-Party Verification in Boston. Required every five years, this process confirms that your data is complete and accurate. It’s not just a box to check. The city uses this verification to spot underreporting, outdated assumptions, or incorrect building classifications. You must work with a city-approved verifier and store all records, including signed verification letters and communications. If anything is missing, it could delay your compliance or lead to enforcement.
Another Q2 must-do is reviewing your building’s emissions thresholds. BERDO sets emissions caps based on building type and use. If your 2024 report shows that your building exceeded its allowed limit, you’ll need to act fast. That could mean starting energy efficiency upgrades or submitting a formal compliance plan. Options like timeline adjustments exist, but they require paperwork and city approval—steps you should begin now, not later.
3 Key Actions For Q2 BERDO Compliance
1. Recheck and Resubmit If Needed
Even if your report was filed on time, it might still contain errors. Start by double-checking your energy usage against utility data. Make sure your numbers match the correct 12-month reporting period, that your kBtu conversions are accurate, and that you used the correct source-site ratios. If your BERDO Third-Party Verification was due, confirm that it’s uploaded correctly and signed by an approved verifier. If anything is off, use the BERDO portal to update and resubmit. The city allows corrections during Q2, but that grace period won’t last forever.
2. Finalize Verification and Supporting Documents
Your third-party verifier should confirm emissions totals, Energy Use Intensity (EUI), and building type. If you skipped verification or used someone not approved by Boston, your report could be invalid. In addition to the signed verification letter, keep records of all related communication. These files may be requested if your building is selected for a deeper audit. Missing verification is one of the top reasons buildings are flagged in Q2.
3. Align with Emissions Targets or File a Plan
Compare your 2024 emissions to the BERDO threshold for your building size and category. If your emissions were too high, you’re not alone—over 1,500 buildings exceeded their limits last year. Use this quarter to identify the gap and consider solutions. That may include HVAC retrofits, lighting upgrades, or renewables. If you can’t close the gap right away, file for an alternative compliance path or adjustment timeline. Waiting too long could result in automatic penalties starting in Q3.
What Happens If You’re Flagged
If Boston determines your property is out of compliance, several consequences follow. First, fines begin at $300 per day for each non-compliant report or missing document. Second, your building may be listed publicly on the city’s open data portal, signaling non-compliance to tenants, investors, and the public. Finally, repeated issues may lead to formal legal notices or forced corrective action plans.
Most of these problems are avoidable if caught early. Respond to city notices immediately. Often, fixing errors or submitting late documents can stop further penalties.
Some of the most common reasons for audit flags include incorrect square footage data, unverified emissions factors, gaps in utility reporting due to meter changes, or missing BERDO Third-Party Verification in Boston. If any of these apply to your building, address them now.
What To Fix, File, Or Finalize In Q2
Use this quarter as a cleanup and prep period. Start by confirming that your EUI calculations are accurate and match up with your latest energy bills. If your building’s use has changed—for example, a shift from office to lab space—update the property classification in your BERDO report. These changes can affect your emissions target and your compliance status.
Now is also the time to prepare for future cycles. Look ahead to capital improvements that could lower your building’s energy intensity by 2026. Start budgeting for professional energy audits or equipment upgrades now, while there’s time to plan effectively. If your next third-party verification cycle is approaching, schedule it early. Delays can create compliance gaps.
Working with a BERDO compliance consultant can also make a big difference. Experts can help you check your emissions against legal limits, correct report data, or determine if you qualify for timeline adjustments or other relief.
3-Part BERDO Compliance Checklist For Q2
Before the quarter ends, use this streamlined checklist to stay on track:
🔹 Confirm all emissions and energy use data are accurate and match utility records
🔹 Verify that BERDO Third-Party Verification documents are uploaded and approved
🔹 Compare reported emissions against BERDO thresholds and plan for mitigation if needed
This checklist can help you avoid last-minute corrections and ensure you’re prepared if the city requests more information.
Time Is Running Out, Act Before Q3 Begins
Boston’s BERDO 2.0 is one of the country’s most aggressive building emissions laws. While Q1 focused on submitting reports, Q2 is about verifying, correcting, and proving your compliance. If you’re behind, now is the time to catch up. Every day you delay increases the chance of penalties or public enforcement.
If you need support, tools, or just a second set of eyes on your submission, we can help.
VertPro.com offers powerful compliance tools and services for BERDO reporting and energy efficiency. From verification support to upgrade planning, VertPro® helps building owners stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.
Secure your Q2 BERDO compliance now, before enforcement heats up in Q3.
