6 Star Energy Rating Victoria

May 5, 2011 | Green Rate

When will 6 star energy rating be introduced in Victoria?

A 6 star energy rating for new homes and extensions will become the new standard in Victoria as of 1 May 2011. Other states to have adopted the 6 Star standard include ACT, QLD (5 Star for units), SA and WA. TAS and NT currently remain with 5 Star.

What if the design was done prior to May 1 2011?

In Victoria, so long as the design was substantially progressed by May 1 2011, your building surveyor will be able to accept a 5 star rating (dispensation may be required). This may differ for other states, please contact us for advice.

What building work is subject to a 6 star energy rating?

All new homes and extensions, as well as habitable garages, granny flats and the like must achieve a 6 star rating. Class 2 units in a multi-residential building must also collectively achieve a 6 Star average in VIC, ACT, and SA (5 Stars in QLD/TAS, and 3.5 Stars in NT). Some simple work that does not require a building permit will not need to comply.

What are the requirements?

A 6 star energy efficiency rating applies to the building envelope: the roof, walls, floor and windows. A report prepared by an Accredited Assessor is required to provide evidence that the building achieves a 6 star rating. The assessor can provide recommendations for changes to the design if it does not initially reach 6 stars. In Victoria, new homes also require the installation of a solar hot water system or rainwater tank for toilet flushing.

What does the higher rating mean?

For home owners it means a house that is more naturally comfortable for longer periods of the year. A house that uses less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature should mean reduced utility bills, and also the potential for a higher resale value. Environmental benefits can also be seen through reduced greenhouse emissions.

What design changes will be required?

You can achieve 6 stars a variety of ways. Most likely increased insulation to roof, walls and suspended floors will be required. Improved glazing may not be necessary if other elements are good – e.g. Orientation, insulation, and appropriate shading – however, many homes will require double glazing or solar improved glazing to achieve 6 stars.

Will it cost more to build to 6 Star?

Given the building has good design and orientation for its specific location, increased costs to reach 6 stars should be minimal. In any case, it makes good financial sense to seek the right advice from a reputable Accredited Assessor to ensure costs are kept to a minimum. Green Rate has performed hundreds of 6 star energy assessments in Victoria, and have used a variety of simple cost-effective techniques to maximise the star rating.

What do new home builders need to do?

Before a building permit can be issued, new home builders will need to engage an Accredited Assessor to perform an Energy Rating Assessment on the design. The assessor should also provide recommendations for changes to the design and/or specifications if it does not initially reach 6 stars.

If renovating or extending, will you need to bring the entire home up to 6 Star?

In Victoria, alterations or extensions affecting a volume of over 50 percent of the existing home, require the entire building to be brought up to 6 stars. However, dispensation can often be awarded to allow the existing parts to remain as is. Please contact us if you are facing this situation, or for advice on the current regulations in other States.

Where can you find further information?

If you have any further questions about 6 Star or would like to enquire about our Energy Rating Assessment service, please contact Green Rate.

> PDF Download - Victoria Building Commission 6-Star fact sheet