Home Planning & development BASIX Basics

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Meeting the BASIX targets

BASIX establishes a set of quantifiable targets, providing certainty by ensuring that applicants understand what is expected and how buildings must be designed in order to meet these standards.

What kind of information does the BASIX assessment tool require?

In order to complete a BASIX assessment, an applicant must enter information which identifies and describes the proposal, such as:

• Project name, address, lot number and Local Government Area;
• Project type (for example detached house, dual occupancy dwelling);
• Site area, gross floor area, roof area and number of bedrooms.

• Landscape (for example area of vegetation and number of indigenous species);
• Stormwater (for example collection and use of rainwater);
• Water (for example use of recycled water and installation of water-efficient showerheads and tap fittings);
• Thermal Comfort (for example glazing and shading details which influence the heating and cooling loads of the dwelling);
• Energy (for example type of hot water system used and use of cooling and heating systems).

The BASIX tool is interactive, enabling the exchange of information between these indices. Applicants will be required to meet target scores within the Water and Energy indices, and obtain a pass in the Thermal Comfort index, by committing to measures offered in BASIX which will ensure that the development will perform in a sustainable manner once constructed.

The extent of commitments which must be made by applicants will vary depending on the size and nature of the proposed development, however proposals will meet BASIX requirements if reasonable, well-established sustainable design measures are incorporated into the design of the proposed dwelling.

How do I pass the Energy section of the BASIX assessment?

A minimum score of 25% for Energy is required by BASIX. A typical single dwelling design will meet this target if it includes:

• an efficient hot water system; and
• design features that make the most of natural heating, cooling, and lighting.

How do I pass the Water Section of the BASIX assessment?

A minimum score of 40% for Water is required by BASIX. A typical single dwelling design will meet the target for water conservation if it includes:

• showerheads, tap fittings and toilets with at least a 3A rating;
• a rainwater tank or alternative water supply for outdoor water use and toilet flushing and/or laundry.

How do I pass the Thermal Comfort section of BASIX?

To complete the Thermal Comfort section of the BASIX assessment, you can either choose the Deemed to Comply method or the Simulation method.

If you choose Deemed to Comply method, then you must enter in the specific data about your proposed development into the BASIX tool. The Deemed to Comply Method is only intended for simple home designs.

If you choose the Simulation method, you will need to engage an Accredited Assessor to conduct a NatHERS assessment of your proposed development. Details from your NatHERS certificate can be entered in the Simulation section of Thermal Comfort.

If your home has special design features that go beyond the limitations of the tool, then you will need to use the Simulation Method. Visit the ABSA website for more information on NatHERS and to find a NatHERS assessor.

Does BASIX mean I cannot install air-conditioning?

No, but to reach the required score for Energy, you may need to install a more efficient cooling or heating system.

Do I have to install a rainwater tank in order to comply with BASIX?

No, but installing a rainwater tank can be the most effective way to reach the required score for Water.

Does BASIX mean I can't install a swimming pool?

No. You can install a swimming pool, but it will lower your scores for Water and Energy. You will then have to make up for this loss by making other efficiencies in the dwelling design.

The BASIX tool is located on the BASIX website.

Contact details
BASIX Helpline
1300 650 908 (ph)
1300 650 908 (fax)
basix@dipnr.nsw.gov.au

© 2008 Yass Valley Council
This page: http://www.yass.nsw.gov.au/planning/3157/3160.html