BASIX assessments are required for all housing alterations and additions in NSW valued at $50,000 or more, along with pools and spas that have a capacity of 40,000 litres of more.

When considering a renovation, like a new home, it is important to ensure you have taken into consideration the aspect of your home to the sun – attracting as much winter sun as possible, yet protecting the home from the hot summer sun.

Investing in a higher level of wall, floor and ceiling insulation is wise, as well as considering higher performing glass. Not only will these small investments help make your home more comfortable, it will also help to reduce your energy costs.

There’s little doubt, the value of your home will likely increase if you are able to show it has a strong energy efficiency.

Swimming pools that require BASIX can be undertaken quite simply with the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) assessment. However, there can still be traps, like knowing how to properly assess the size of a water, if required and ensuring that any heating system that is added is being properly specified. Getting some of these components wrong can add unnecessary costs and potentially delay the project should the certificate get rejected by the certifying authority.

If you’re unsure if your project requires a BASIX assessment, please get in touch with the Frys Energywise experts.

You can also find detailed information on BASIX assessments here.

BASIX Assessment for Alterations and Additions

• BASIX applies to all Alterations and additions in NSW that are valued at $ 50,000. Unlike new homes, there are no specific targets for energy or water. The tool however does aim to reduce water and energy consumption by the following
1. Reduces the energy required to heat and cool homes through improved glazing, insulation, building design and construction materials
2. Requires at least 40% of new or altered light fixtures to be fitted with high-efficiency globes
3. Promotes the installation of solar, gas, heat pump or wood systems instead of high-emission electric hot water systems
4. Requires all new taps, toilets and showerheads to have a minimum efficiency rating of 3 WELS stars
5. Reduces pool and spa emissions by phasing out high-emission electric heating systems
6. Reduces water consumption in pools and spas by encouraging rainwater tanks and covers to reduce evaporation

BASIX Assessment for Swimming Pools and Spas

• If you are installing a new pool and or spa or renovating an existing pool and or spa and the combined volume is more than 40,000 litres, you will need a BASIX Certificate
• If you are installing a swimming pool in conjunction with a new home construction, then the pool will need to be assessed as part of the BASIX application, no matter what size.
• BASIX takes into account the ongoing water usage for any new pools or outdoor spas included in your development application. You can reduce the water use associated with a pool or spa by:
  1. Installing a permanent pool or spa cover
  2. Shading the pool or spa area
  3. Selecting a rainwater tank for top-up