NatHERS Assessments for Residential Projects

Residential performance / NatHERS

A clearer path from design inputs to a residential energy rating.

Explore what a NatHERS assessment measures, how the process works, and the information that shapes cost, timing and performance.

Service detail

What is a NatHERS assessment?

A NatHERS assessment is a method for assessing the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia. NatHERS stands for the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, and it is a government initiative designed to help improve the energy efficiency of homes and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The assessment process involves using computer software to model the building's design and construction, including its orientation, insulation, windows, and other features that affect its energy performance. The software then calculates the building's thermal performance and assigns it a star rating between 0 and 10, with 10 being the most energy-efficient. A higher star rating indicates that the building is more efficient in retaining heat during winter and keeping cool during summer. This means that the building requires less energy for heating and cooling, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to reduce energy bills.

Energy efficiency assessments are required by law for new residential buildings in Australia, and many state and local governments offer incentives and rebates for homeowners who improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Homeowners can also use the star rating system to compare the energy efficiency of different homes and make more informed decisions when buying or renting a property. In addition to improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings, NatHERS assessments also contribute to reducing Australia's carbon footprint and achieving the country's greenhouse gas reduction targets.

Key guidance

Our Experience

LittleShrub continue to be actively involved in Standards Australia and provide strong guidance to the committee on ongoing changes required to progress the Energy Efficiency ambitions of the Australian Government. Not only do we understand what is required by the Building Code, but we were involved in the creation of some of the regulations that govern the sector today.

Possibly one of the biggest changes to Section J in NCC 2019 was the introduction of AS/NZS 4859.1:2018. It is this Australian Standard which sets the rules of how an ESD consultant needs to go about calculating the performance of a building in a DtS Section J solution and it is this point which really elevates LittleShrub above the crowd. It was our staff that drafted these rules on behalf of Standards Australia for inclusion into the BCA for 2019

Our staff have been involved in the space for over a decade, and we bring the knowledge of inner workings of the regulatory space as well as knowledge of where the industry is heading into the future. We pride ourselves on being actively involved in how the industry, as a whole, looks to the future to create a more energy conscious Australia.

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Purpose

The purpose of a NatHERS assessment is to establish a standardized method for measuring the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia. The scheme was launched as a government initiative to enhance energy efficiency in homes and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The assessment process uses computer software to simulate the building's design and construction, and to determine its thermal performance. The software factors in elements such as the orientation of the building, insulation, windows, shading, and ventilation to establish the building's energy rating.

The purpose of the assessment is to offer homeowners, builders, and policymakers with an unbiased and reliable measure of a building's energy efficiency. This helps in making informed decisions about building design, materials, and construction techniques, and enables homeowners to make informed choices when purchasing or leasing a property.

The requirement for energy assessments in Australia is enforced by law, particularly for new residential buildings. The requirement ensures that new buildings meet minimum energy efficiency standards, and reduces the environmental impact of new construction.

Moreover, NatHERS assessments contribute to reducing Australia's carbon footprint and achieving the country's greenhouse gas reduction targets. By encouraging energy-efficient building design and construction, the scheme decreases the demand for non-renewable energy sources and supports the shift to a low-carbon economy.

In summary, the purpose of a NatHERS assessment is to provide an objective and standardized measure of a building's energy efficiency, support efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance the sustainability of the built environment.

Selected NatHERS work

Previous Works

A small snapshot of some of our previous works.

NatHERS and 3.12 report

Eureaka Villages Brassall

A retirtement villiage consisting of 51 buildings

NatHERS Assessment

Myola Road, Brovinia

A retirement villiage main building

NatHERS Assessment

Daydream Street, Burpengary

9 new residences in a new estate

NatHERS Assessments

The Plaeau Estate

A large housing development

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How does it work?

NatHERS assessments work by using sophisticated computer modelling software to simulate a building's energy performance. The assessment takes into account the building's design and construction, orientation, and local climate to determine its energy efficiency rating. The process uses a star rating system, where 10 stars indicate maximum energy efficiency, and zero stars indicate the lowest level of efficiency.

The software used in NatHERS assessments is based on a set of algorithms that are applied to a 3D model of the building. This virtual model is based on building plans, construction materials, and other relevant data. The software simulates the building's thermal performance in different weather conditions, taking into account factors such as solar radiation, heat transfer, and ventilation.

The software generates a detailed report that includes the building's energy rating, the estimated energy consumption, and recommendations for improving the building's energy efficiency. The report also highlights areas where the building is performing well and where improvements can be made.

The purpose of a NatHERS assessment is to provide an objective and standardized measure of a building's energy efficiency. The assessment process enables builders, architects, and homeowners to evaluate different design options and make informed decisions that can improve a building's energy efficiency. The process also ensures that new buildings in Australia meet minimum energy efficiency standards.

In conclusion, NatHERS assessments use sophisticated computer modelling software to evaluate a building's energy performance. The process simulates the building's thermal performance in different weather conditions, taking into account factors such as solar radiation, heat transfer, and ventilation. The resulting report provides an objective measure of a building's energy efficiency, enabling builders, architects, and homeowners to make informed decisions about energy-efficient design and construction.

Key guidance

The Requirements

The NatHERS rating system has undergone significant changes from the 2019 building code to the 2022 building code. These changes reflect the Australian government's commitment to improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the key changes in the 2022 building code is the increase in minimum energy efficiency requirements for new buildings. The code has raised the minimum NatHERS rating for residential buildings from 6 to 7 stars. This means that new buildings must achieve a higher level of energy efficiency than was required under the previous code. The code also includes new provisions for increasing the energy efficiency of existing buildings.

Another significant change in the 2022 building code is the introduction of a new heating and cooling load limit. This limit is intended to prevent the use of inefficient heating and cooling systems in new buildings. The limit sets a maximum amount of energy that can be used for heating and cooling, based on the building's size and climate zone. This is intended to encourage the use of more efficient heating and cooling systems and reduce energy consumption in new buildings.

The 2022 building code also includes new requirements for building envelope performance. This includes minimum levels of insulation, glazing performance, and air tightness. These requirements are intended to improve the thermal performance of buildings and reduce energy consumption.

Overall, the changes to the NatHERS rating system in the 2022 building code reflect the Australian government's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings. These changes will have a significant impact on the construction industry and will require builders, architects, and homeowners to adopt new approaches to design and construction. However, they also represent an important step towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient built environment.

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How much does a NatHERS report cost?

The cost of a NatHERS report can vary depending on a range of factors such as the size and complexity of the building, the location of the building, and the specific requirements of the assessment. Generally speaking, the cost of a NatHERS report can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.

For a standard residential building, the cost of a NatHERS assessment is typically around $250 to $350. However, for more complex buildings or those located in areas with specific climate or environmental conditions, the cost may be higher.

It's important to note that the cost of a NatHERS assessment should be seen as an investment in the long-term energy efficiency and sustainability of the building. A well-designed and energy-efficient building can lead to significant cost savings over the life of the building through reduced energy bills and improved comfort for occupants.

It's also worth noting that some local councils or state governments may offer subsidies or rebates for NatHERS assessments or for achieving a certain level of energy efficiency. Homeowners and builders should check with their local council or state government to see if any such incentives are available.

Project requirements and approval pathways vary by jurisdiction. Confirm the applicable NCC and NatHERS requirements for your project.

NatHERS Assessments for Residential Projects

A clearer path from design inputs to a residential energy rating.