DARREN BOWMAN DESIGN

The 6-star standard came into effect yesterday in Victoria. Don't panic! Although more onerous than the 5-star standard that it supersedes achieving 6 star compliance isn’t difficult if basic design principles are considered from the start. The right orientation is now even more important. The standard also considers glazing, insulation, draft-sealing, etc as it did before and it still includes a requirement for a rainwater tank or a solar hot water system. The 6-star standard also requires fixed lighting to be considered and stipulates maximum wattages per floor area.

According to the building commission 6-star houses will be 24% more efficient that 5-star houses and will save the occupants a further $100 / year in energy costs.

The 6-star standard applies to all new houses, appartments and townhouses as well as alterations and additions.  The extent of compliance varies with alterations and additions.

We can advise you on what extent you will need to go to to comply. We will also continue to provide Deemed-to-Satisfy assessments and reports under the Building Code of Australia provisions as well as performance based assessments and reports using Firstrate 5 software.

Download the Building Commission 6-star brochure here.

Apply for an assessment here.