Have you recently purchased a vacant block of land, or have you thoughts of demolishing a run-down home to build your dream-residence? Today’s Chisholm & Gamon blog briefly discusses the statewide legislation that came into play as of May 2011, bringing all new Victorian residences and renovations into line with a 6-star energy rating. How does your new home rate?
With the potential of a carbon tax on the creation of raw building materials, an additional demand upon owner-builders of complying with a 6-star energy rating may appear onerous. However, the Building Commission assures consumers that although the upfront costs of a house may be slightly higher to comply with new regulations – long term savings will ensue for homeowners.
The 6-star rating applies to the ‘envelope’ of your home – meaning floors, roof, walls and windows. Your architect or builder must now take into account the thermal performance of their design, ensuring that all these ‘envelope’ elements minimise use of energy and optimise insulation. From now on your design must be approved for ‘thermal performance’ before being granted a building permit. Effectively, the higher the stars – the less energy you will need to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
The Building Commission website has detailed information about 6-star energy ratings, and states that a 6-star rated home uses 24% less energy than a non-complying residence. This can mean electricity bill savings of an average $100 a year – with more possible for homes which use their energy more efficiently. Other factors also come into consideration for energy stars – this includes the placement of the home in relation to the sun. Chisholm & Gamon look forward to seeing your new energy-saving creations in the neighbourhood!
TAGS: Building Commision, 6 star energy, carbon tax, Chisholm & Gamon
