Except for New South Wales, all states and territories in Australia require an energy report as part of a building licence application process. The Building Code of Australia (BCA) stipulates that all new homes, alterations, additions, and renovations must comply with energy efficiency guidelines and regulations. Some of the energy efficiency aspects to be considered during home construction and renovations include ventilation, insulation, sealing, and external glazing. Here are some tips for meeting energy efficiency requirements in residential properties.

How to Comply with Australian Energy Efficiency Requirements

One way of ensuring that your home meets the BCA energy efficiency requirements is to achieve a 6-star rating. The energy star rating is determined by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). A home is rated based on its design. Ideally, your home should have a six-star rating to show that it is energy-efficient, comfortable, and fully compliant with government requirements. The other option for energy compliance is to develop another energy efficiency solution by working with a consultant who prepares a report that meets the Building Code of Australia requirements.

Is An Energy Efficiency Report Necessary?

If you want to construct a home, renovate, alter or add an extension, you need a house energy report to inform a building surveyor or building certifier how the proposed design addresses energy efficiency requirement of the BCA. You need such a report when applying for a building licence. However, the state of NSW does not require an energy report but a BASIX Certificate.

Research has also shown that energy-efficient homes put on the market fetch a higher price than inefficient homes. Although disclosure of energy-efficiency ratings is standard in commercial properties, disclosure in residential buildings is still optional in many jurisdictions. Therefore, an energy report can help prospective homeowners design energy-efficient homes, while ensuring that already-built homes remain compliant. As a result, such homes are likely to attract buyers that pay a premium price. Besides, an energy efficiency report for an existing home ensures that homeowners understand the amount of energy usage for heating and cooling so that they can save on energy bills.

Choosing an Energy Efficiency Consultant 

Choose an expert (thermal performance assessor) who is qualified and experienced in building design, especially in thermal performance assessment. Also, consider professionals with accreditation from an organisation recognised nationally, such as the Australian Department of Environment and Energy. One of the largest accreditation organisations for Thermal Performance Assessors (TPA) is Design Matters National. Accreditation guarantees that TPAs adhere to industry regulations and best practices, ensuring that clients get the best services.