BASIX Certificate- Is It Really Necessary?

 

BASIX denotes the Building Sustainability Index, an initiative introduced by the NSW Government to encourage the development of energy and water-efficient homes. 

Every development application for building a new residential structure must be submitted to Council with a BASIX Certificate. 

Without the BASIX certificate, the council will not accept the development application. 

• A BASIX Certificate identifies the sustainability features that need to be incorporated in the building development plan. 
• These features may encompass sustainable design elements like recycled water systems, rainwater tanks, star-rated showerheads and taps, solar water heaters, native landscaping, gas space heaters, roof awnings, and wall or ceiling insulation.

How Does BASIX work? 

• BASIX is an online program that is accessed by any building industry professionals or even the individual building owner. 
• The user needs to enter all relevant information pertaining to the residential unit design – such as size, location, building materials, cooling and heating methods, etc – into the BASIX online tool. 
• BASIX analyses this information and determines how it performs against the Energy and Water Targets. The same targets apply across all NSW Council areas. 
• The design must pass specific targets (which vary according to building type) before obtaining the BASIX Report and finally the certificate. 
• The commitments stated during the BASIX assessment process are reflected in the final certificate and need to be marked on the plans. The development needs to adhere to the specifications mentioned in the BASIX Certificate.

Which Type Of Developments Require BASIX Certificate? 

BASIX certificate is mandatory for the following developments- 

• New residential dwellings requiring a total investment of $50,000 or more. 
• Alterations, renovations, or modifications to any existing residential structures with a total expenditure of $50,000 or more. 
• Swimming pools with a total capacity of more than 40,000 liters. 

If your project falls under any of the above three categories, then you’ll have to submit a BASIX Certificate along with your Development Application or for a Complying Development Certificate application.

Where Do You Need BASIX Certificate During A Development Process? 

A BASIX certificate is required at every step of the development process-

Obtaining a BASIX certificate 

When you complete the online assessment using the BASIX tool and your project meets the sustainability standards a BASIX certificate is generated. You need to print your certificate for future applications. 

A BASIX report is initially generated and once you confirm all the data you’ll get the BASIX certificate. 

A fee will be charged for the process depending on your proposed development.

Submitting Your Application 

To obtain your Complying Development Certificate you need to attach your BASIX certificate along with your development application for submission. For any changes to your project, you’ll need to update your initial BASIX online assessment and resubmit your application.

Assessing Your Application 

After an assessment of your application, you’ll get approval for the project.  Your development must adhere to the commitments specified on the BASIX certificate.

Also Read: 12 Tips And Tricks To Build A BASIX Compliant Energy Efficient Home

Construction Certificate 

Before you initiate the construction of your project, you’ll need to apply for a construction certificate. The application must be submitted along with your BASIX certificate. 

Occupation Certificate 

Upon confirmation that your construction has adhered to the commitments specified on the BASIX certificate, a final Occupation Certificate will be issued. 

Completion Receipt 

Before granting the occupation certificate, a final inspection is conducted by accredited professionals. Before issuing the certificate, a BASIX completion receipt is furnished by the concerned authority.