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New "5 Star Homes" regulations

The building industry has taken a significant step to improve the energy and water efficiency of new homes with the recent implementation of new "5 Star Homes" regulations.

The Victorian state government through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Victoria (SEAV), the Building Commission and the industry introduced new "5 Star Homes" regulations in 2004. The regulations are being implemented in two stages with stage 1 applying from July 1st 2004 for one year before going to the higher standard in stage 2 which applies from July 1st, 2005.

In stage 1, three compliance options are available to choose from:

• Option 1: 5 Star energy rating for building fabric
• Option 2: 4 Star energy rating for building fabric, plus water saving measures and a solar hot water system
• Option 3: 4 Star energy rating for building fabric, plus water saving measures and a rainwater tank (min 2000L) plumbed to the toilets

In stage 2, only two options are available:

• Option 1: 5 Star energy rating for building fabric, plus water saving measures and a solar hot water system
• Option 2: 5 Star energy rating for building fabric, plus water saving measures and a rainwater tank (min 2000L) plumbed to the toilets

From the applicable dates, in order to obtain a building permit for new homes, design plans must demonstrate compliance by having plans rated and stamped by an SEAV accredited energy rater. The SEAV developed FirstRate program will be used by accredited raters. The program determines the likely natural energy efficiency of the building only, by predicting the likely energy needs for heating and cooling. It does not include appliances in the assessment. The program requires inputs which are site specific, such as window orientation, climate category, site exposure, surrounding obstructions as well as the particulars relating to the building design and materials.

Currently, the regulations do not apply to renovations or extensions to existing homes. This may well change in coming years.

Accredited energy raters are listed in the SEAV website. Most accredited raters are either employees of the larger building firms or architects, building designers, independent raters or energy and water consultants. SEAV will monitor and audit raters regularly to maintain standards.