This article was genuinely published here and copied with permission.
What is a BASIX report?
A BASIX report, also known as the Building Sustainability Index, was created in 2004 by the New South Wales government to ensure that residential developments were sustainable. It aims to reduce household electricity and water use and costs by setting minimum sustainability targets for new and renovated homes. This is achieved by identifying design features such as location, building size, orientation, construction type, landscaping and fixtures. Once these targets are achieved, a BASIX certificate is issued and submitted as part of a development application or application for
complying development.
BASIX reports were designed to meet a target of around 25% reductions in greenhouse gases and 40% in water consumption. These targets not only help save the environment but will also provide the homeowner with economic savings.
What does a BASIX report include?
After completing the BASIX report, you will be issued a BASIX certificate. In New South Wales, this certificate is mandatory for obtaining development applications.
Included in the BASIX report is an array of criteria, including the following:
- The size of the building
- The orientation of the building
- Where the building is situated
- The building construction category
- The appliances being used in the building
- The landscaping surrounding the building
- The type and size of windows in the building
What are the BASIX report targets?
The BASIX targets are the percentage of reduction in carbon footprint and water savings based on the government’s figures.
The New South Wales government has created the following performance targets:
A 40% reduction in water consumption
A 40% reduction in required energy for thermal comfort
A 40% reduction in greenhouse gases
How are BASIX targets measured?
Generally, the average benchmark of each individual’s carbon footprint and water consumption is calculated against the values shared by the residential department in New South Wales.
What is the importance of a BASIX report during the development process?
The initial step is to complete a BASIX report and obtain a BASIX certificate. A fee will be required for this process. The fee amount will depend on the type of development.
Once the BASIX certificate is obtained, it needs to be submitted along with the development application. In addition, any modifications to the construction plan must be incorporated; otherwise, you will have to redo the certificate.
Once your application is approved, you may go ahead with your project, adhering to the plans stated in the application.
You are then required to apply for a construction certificate. A BASIX certificate is required for the application.
The final step is to obtain a completion receipt. In this process, your developed project site will undergo a final inspection.
Bottom line
The BASIX certificate is vital to ensure that the proposed development project follows the sustainability targets the New South Wales Government set. These targets of a 40% reduction in water consumption, greenhouse gases and required energy for thermal comfort will not only help save the environment but will also provide the homeowner with economic savings.
For more, you can head to Certified Energy and ask them to assist you. They are a leading and renowned firm who have been in this field for a long time. Apart from this, explore their official website to know the people’s experience with their service and make your appropriate decisions.
