Understanding BASIX and NatHERS: Key Energy Efficiency Standards for Granny Flats in Australia
What is BASIX?
If you’re planning to build a granny flat in New South Wales (NSW), you need to be aware of BASIX (Building and Sustainability Index).
This is a sustainability assessment tool that ensures new residential dwellings meet the required energy and water efficiency standards set by the NSW Government.
Unlike other states that follow the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) under the Building Code of Australia (BCA) for energy efficiency, NSW mandates BASIX compliance for all residential developments, including granny flats.
How Does BASIX Work?
BASIX is a web-based planning tool that evaluates a project’s sustainability based on three key categories:
- Energy Efficiency – Assesses the energy consumption of fixed appliances like cooktops, hot water systems, air conditioners, lighting, and ceiling fans.
- Thermal Comfort – Evaluates heating and cooling loads, taking into account climate zone, insulation, glazing, building orientation, and ventilation.
- Water Efficiency – Rates the water usage of fixtures and fittings such as taps, showerheads, and toilets, while also considering rainwater tanks and water-efficient landscaping.
When Does BASIX Apply?
BASIX applies to all new residential developments, including:
- Class 1 buildings – Standalone houses and granny flats
- Class 2 buildings – Multi-unit residential developments
- Class 4 parts of a building – Caretaker’s flats within commercial buildings
- Class 10 buildings – Non-habitable structures with conditioned spaces
Additionally, BASIX applies to renovations or alterations if the project cost exceeds $50,000.
BASIX Certificate – Your Key to Approval
A BASIX Certificate is essential when applying for a development application (DA) or complying development certificate (CDC).
It serves as proof that your project meets the NSW Government’s sustainability benchmarks, ensuring reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower water consumption.
How Does BASIX Relate to NatHERS ?
While NSW uses BASIX as its primary sustainability assessment, other Australian states and territories follow the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). NatHERS provides a star rating (from 0 to 10) that measures the thermal performance of a home, indicating how well it maintains a comfortable temperature with minimal heating and cooling.
Key Differences Between BASIX and NatHERS:
- BASIX (NSW) – A comprehensive sustainability assessment tool covering energy efficiency, water usage, and thermal comfort.
- NatHERS (Other States & Territories) – Focuses primarily on thermal performance and energy efficiency, using software to assess a building’s heating and cooling loads.
- Overlap – In NSW, NatHERS is used within BASIX as the thermal comfort assessment component, ensuring new homes and granny flats achieve energy efficiency goals.
Choosing a BASIX Consultant
To simplify the process, you can hire a BASIX consultant or let your builder or certifier handle it. Here are some reputable BASIX consultants in NSW:
- Certified Energy
- Basix Max
- Positive Eco
- Evergreen Eco Consultants
- East Coast Building Consultants
- Eco Certificates
Conclusion
BASIX compliance is a crucial step when building a granny flat in NSW. Ensuring your project meets energy and water efficiency standards not only helps the environment but also reduces your long-term energy and water bills.
If you are building outside NSW, NatHERS is the primary energy efficiency standard you need to follow. By obtaining a BASIX Certificate, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your granny flat is sustainable and compliant with NSW regulations.
Need assistance ? Consult with a BASIX expert or let your builder handle the certification process for a stress-free experience !
