BASIX Certification
Undertaking high quality BASIX assessments for our clients is RC Energy's privilege. Since our inception, RC Energy have completed a wide range of BASIX assessments for our clients, and with our foundational beliefs in technical excellence and continual improvement, we are able to offer a premium quality service at competitive prices. We have provided the below summary to assist potential customers to become acquainted with the BASIX Assessment process - however if there is any additional information that you would like please do not hesitate to get in contact with our friendly team.
What is BASIX?
The Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) is a sustainability assessment tool introduced by the NSW government in 2004, to help combat greenhouse gas emissions and encourage sustainable building practices. BASIX sets certain performance targets for water and energy use and efficiency which must be met by new residential developments, as well as residential additions or alterations. BASIX is considered one of the strongest and most effective sustainable planning measures to be undertaken within Australia. By reducing water consumption and energy use, it also helps to provide significant, ongoing financial savings to homeowners.
What is a BASIX certificate?
A BASIX certificate details three aspects of the development:
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Water usage
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Thermal comfort (i.e. how much energy is required to heat or cool the home throughout the year)
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Energy usage
The assessment is undertaken using the BASIX online tool, and is usually completed by an ESD consultant. The commitments made on the BASIX certificate will form part of the conditions of consent issued by the development approval authority. Any changes to these commitments (e.g. change in the size of the water tanks) will need to be reassessed to ensure compliance is still being met.
There are two ways to undertake a BASIX assessment, the DIY method or the simulation method which are discussed further below.
Do I need a BASIX certificate?
A BASIX assessment and certificate are required for all new Class 1 (houses) and Class 2 (apartments) developments within NSW, as well as any alteration or addition of $50,000 or more. The certificate must be submitted with the development application.
Simulation vs DIY Method
With regard to the assessment of thermal comfort, there are two ways to undertake a BASIX assessment; Simulation and DIY method. The DIY method is generally suitable for relatively simple, single free standing homes. The online tool will specify the levels of insulation and glazing required for the development to pass. Anyone can undertake the DIY method and we have provided a link to it below:
https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/basix
The Simulation method is used when a more complex dwelling is being undertaken. Due to the complexity, simulation using accredited software such as FirstRate5 is undertaken to estimate the heating and cooling loads of the design. Once the design passes, a NATHERS certificate will be produced which will provide a summary of the results. The details of the certificate including certificate number, accredited assessor and energy loads will be included within the certificate. In NSW, an assessor is required to be accredited to produce the NATHERS certificate. RC Energy is fully accredited and insured to complete the simulation.
What do I need to do to get a BASIX Certificate?
For RC Energy to prepare a BASIX Certificate, we will require architectural drawings of the development which are ready to be submitted to council. Once received the plans will be reviewed by a fully accredited assessor and an all inclusive price will be provided. Once agreed, the plans will be modeled in the assessment tool. Any further information will be requested and a draft certificate will be provided. Once you, the client, has received the draft certificate and agreed to all commitments the certificate will be finalised.
How long does it take to receive a BASIX Certificate?
Once all information has been provided, RC Energy will deliver a draft certificate within 2 business days.
How much does a BASIX Certificate cost?
While every project is different, RC Energy offer the following cost guide to BASIX Certificates:
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BASIX Certificate, no simulation - $200.00
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BASIX Renovation/Alteration - $150.00
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BASIX Certificate, with simulation, single storey dwelling - $330.00
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BASIX Certificate with simulation, 2 - 3 storey dwelling - $380.00
Please note, these prices are subject to confirmation upon receiving the architectural plans and do not include GST.