New 7-star NatHERS Energy Rating requirements now in force

In the proposed 2022 update to the National Construction Code (NCC), a rather significant adjustment to energy efficiency requirements dominates the list of key changes. After over a decade in operation, the minimum NatHERS star rating for new dwellings has increased from 6 stars to 7 stars. This includes single dwellings, medium density townhouses and apartments, which require an average 7-star rating with no apartment rating below 6 stars.

The 7-star requirement has now been adopted for most states. What does this mean for you and your developments?

Well, unsurprisingly, the associated thermal performance increase comes with a range of positive benefits for both your family and the environment. A dwelling designed and built to a 7 star rating will provide a more stable and comfortable home environment, with less fluctuating temperatures and temperature range throughout the building, leaving you less reliant on mechanical heating and cooling for your comfort. This, in turn, is better for the environment, and better for your pocket.

For a typical home, it may cost more to achieve the needed 7 star rating through additional insulation and higher quality glazing.

However, if you engage an ESD consultant early on in the planning process, you may find that achieving a 7 star rating is more cost effective than you think! Implementing passive design principles, optimising orientation and room clustering, and choosing a climate-beneficial colour scheme can all help in improving thermal performance without adding to the cost of building your development.

So get in touch with the team here at EcoResults, and let us help you get the best possible results for your developments!