Energy Rating Process for Queensland

Regulation of water and energy use is being implemented by the Queensland Government. All new buildings require a 4 star energy efficiency rating through FirstRate or natHERS.

The Building Code of Australia divides Queensland into 4 climatic zones, with different building regulations for each of them.

Zone 1 :Coastal Tropical North

Zone 2 :Coastal strip Mackay-NSW

Zone 3 :Western Queensland

Zone 5 :Darling Downs

Currently in Queensland there are:

Concessions in the thickness of concrete or clay walls for two storey houses.
Reductions in the insulation requirements for external walls (different for each climate).
Removal of the concession provision for solar hot water systems or gas or electric heat pump water systems.

Requirements for your building to pass

4 star energy efficiency rating of the building through FirstRate or NatHERS
Water saving measures
Details of water saving measures :
- Dual flush toilets.
- Water efficient AAA-rated shower roses
- Water pressure limiting devices in areas with high water pressure.
- Greenhouse efficient hot water systems such as solar, heat pump or gas hot water.
Energy efficient lighting in at least 40% of the house

As of 1 January 2008, new water saving measures apply

These include:

sub-metering of new multi-unit residential and non-residential premises
expanding the allowable uses of treated greywater
retrofitting water efficient devices and toilets in residential premises as part of major renovations
increased water efficiency in new commercial and industrial buildings
treated blackwater trials.

For more information, visit Building Codes Queensland

We can help…

We can provide a FirstRate or AccuRate certificate showing a 5 star rating for the building. The energy report we provide forms part of the required documentation for building permit approval. As each building is unique in terms of design, location and materials, a customised solution is provided. If the building does not meet the requirement, we can recommend changes. Possible changes could include:

Seals and weather stripping to doors and windows
Different levels of insulation for various building elements (walls, floor and roofs)
Variation in amount and type of glazing.
Attention to shading and orientation of walls and windows.

To assess your building we will need the following:

Architectural drawings (preferably in CAD format)
Insulation levels of walls and ceilings
Window glass and frame type (preferably manufacturer's model)
Site map with house orientation

We are very keen to work with people who want to go further than the mandatory requirement and build energy efficient houses. Energy efficient options cost very little to implement at the design and construction stage, yet offer huge long-term benefits to both the home owner and the environment.

Please e-mail or call us on 1300 308 525 if you would like more information or a quote.