Basix changes are coming, and we’re here to tell you everything you need to know from what is Basix, to how it will affect the cost of your new home build and when these changes be taking place! 

With energy costs on the rise, it makes sense to ensure that your new home is as energy efficient as possible. At the same time, the NSW Government wants to ensure all new homes built in the state comply with new standards, measured under the BASIX scheme, to ensure we are on track to meet energy efficiency and emissions reduction targets. That means reducing water and energy consumption in measurable ways

Under the new rules, which come into effect on October 1, 2023, the minimum standard of compliance with the Building Code of Australia’s energy efficiency requirements is being increased from 5 stars to 7 stars.

As a leading home builder in NSW, Domaine Homes must comply with the new standards. We will ensure all the homes we build receive a 7 star BASIX certificate by applying a range of measures to our design and build, including installing appropriate insulation and glazing and making the most of natural lighting and ventilation.

The BASIX tool checks elements of a proposed design against sustainability targets.

Energy – consumption by fixed appliances such as cooktops, hot water systems, air conditioners, ceiling fans and lighting.

Thermal comfort loads – the energy required to either heat or cool a house to keep it at a comfortable temperature. Basix puts a cap on these loads, taking into account the local climate, the size and orientation of the building, building form, insulation, glazing and ventilation etc.

Water – water usage of fixtures and fittings such as taps, shower heads and toilets and gives a score for water-saving measures such as rainwater tanks.

A BASIX Certificate is the formal evidence that the project achieves compliance with the required targets for energy, water and thermal comfort.

The scheme covers the way a home is designed, as well as the building materials and the fixtures and fittings that are used.

To comply with the 7-star rating and reduce energy consumption, your Domaine Homes build will now include a number of necessary features,*such as:

Wall wrap – enables the insulation to work more efficiently. It also protects the building structure from the weather.

Sarking – a pliable membrane that sits under your roof tiles, like a protective second skin. It helps insulation work more efficiently and protects home contents from storm-driven rain and dust, condensation and bushfire ember attack.

Anti-condensation blanket – foil-faced insulation blanket specifically designed for temperature and noise control in homes and buildings with metal roofs.

Ceiling insulation R6 – the R value is the measure of how well a layer of insulation resists heat. Adding a layer of R6Ceiling Insulation offers potential energy savings between 20% and 40%.

External wall insulation R2.5 – this level of insulation offers thermal benefits. Note: Remove acoustic

Windows – account for approximately 90% of heat gain and 50% of heat loss. The new standards require specific types of glazing for different zones, improving thermal performance and allowing your home to capture more natural light. Depending on the house design, Low-e performance glazing will be required or a combination of both low-e glass and double glazing.

Ceiling fans – installing ceiling fans in all bedrooms helps increase natural ventilation and greatly reduces the need for further cooling.

Hot water heating – installing a Continuous Flow Natural Gas heater ensures lower running costs and low greenhouse gas emissions.

Rainwater tank – for sustainable water use a tank should be 3000 litres for single and double-storey homes, and 4000 litres for acreage.

3.3kW Rooftop Solar – to boost your access to sustainable energy.

HOW WILL THE CHANGES AFFECT COST AND PROJECT TIMES?

To put it simply, you can expect additional costs due to the building components required to meet the new standards. This includes but is not limited to, the items listed above. Costs will vary based on home design, climate zone and other factors such as neighbour shading and proximity to other buildings. But don’t worry our Sales Consultants are there to discuss these details with you so you can be across all additional costs your home is required for.

For more details go to the NSW Government website https://pp.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/BASIX-standards

DISCLAIMER: Please note that the summary of necessary features in the table above is an estimate of the products our homes may need to meet the revised BASIX criteria. These inclusions are subject to change without notice and will be determined once the BASIX assessment has been completed on the home. Modifications may also be required and are not covered within this guide.