ENERGY CODE COMPLIANCE
To demonstrate compliance with the Energy Efficiency provisions of the National Construction Code, we offer the following services for residential and commercial buildings:
Building Code of Australia – Volume Two - New Homes, Alterations and Additions As leading experts in this field, we are able to offer a range of solutions to provide best outcomes for each project and your individual needs, including: 1. Deemed-to-Satisfy – Option 1 – Using an Energy Rating Energy ratings are conducted using software compliant with NatHERS protocols by a nationally accredited thermal performance assessor. Minimum compliance standards are demonstrated by calculating heating and cooling loads, as well as certifying compliance with requirements for thermal insulation, thermal breaks, compensating for loss of ceiling insulation, floor edge insulation and building sealing. Services are also assessed, including heated water systems and artificial lighting and appropriate compliance documentation is provided. Our services include consultancy as required to demonstrate compliance, with recommendations and compliance options for consideration to suit your individual priorities. This option is also available for BCA Class 2 multi residential apartments. For more information see the House Energy Ratings section of our website. 2. Deemed-to-Satisfy – Option 2 – Using Elemental Provisions Elemental Provisions generally allow less flexibility in providing solutions that fully consider how each part of the house actually performs. However, in some instances they provide an affordable alternative method of certifying compliance. We certify compliance with Parts 3.12.1, 3.12.2, 3.12.3, 3.12.4 of the Building Code of Australia as well as Part 3.12.5 Services. This option is often the most suitable for small alterations and additions. It is not available for BCA Class 2 multi residential apartments. 3. Performance Based Solutions For complex projects, an alternative solution may provide a more affordable or practical outcome. Performance based solutions can be delivered in accordance with the requirements of Part 2.6 Energy Efficiency of the Building Code of Australia and include:
4. Alterations and Additions Protocol for Energy Efficiency – WA Only In 2014, the Building Commission, Department of Commerce, Government of Western Australia introduced more stringent legislation for alterations and additions effective 1 May 2015. From this date, alterations and additions for buildings of all classifications will be required to comply with the applicable building standards set out in regulation 31A of the Building Regulations 2012. The Building Commission has supported an industry-led project to provide a practical building solution to enable alterations and additions in Class 1 or attached Class 10 buildings to meet the more stringent energy efficiency requirements that will apply from 1 May 2015. This project has resulted in the development of a WA Alterations & Additions Protocol for Energy Efficiency (the protocol). Applying the Protocol we can determine the most cost effective and practical solution for each individual alteration and additions project. Building Code of Australia – Volume One – Commercial Buildings As leading experts in this field we are able to offer a range of solutions to provide best outcomes for each project and your individual needs, including: 1. Deemed-to-Satisfy – Class 3 to 9 Buildings Using compliance check lists developed in-house we are able to certify compliance using this method for most BCA Class 3 to 9 buildings in accordance with the provisions of Section J. For most projects we certify compliance with BCA Parts J1 to J4, J7 and J8. We can also provide compliance documentation for Part J5 Air-Conditioning and Ventilation Systems and Part J6 Artificial Lighting and Power for most buildings, or consult with project mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure appropriate compliance documentation is provided. This is normally the most affordable option for less complex commercial buildings. 2. Performance Based Solution – Reference Building Method For complex projects, or projects where a more detailed knowledge of the building’s energy performance is required, we conduct energy assessments and provide compliance documentation in accordance with BCA Verification Method JV3 “Verification Using a reference building”. 3. Deemed-to-Satisfy – Class 2 Buildings or Class 4 Parts of Buildings Energy ratings are conducted in accordance with BCA J0.2 “Heating and cooling loads of sole-occupancy units of a Class 2 building or a Class 4 part”. We specialise in providing affordable solutions for these building types and often conduct extensive research into various materials and construction systems to ensure optimum thermal performance benefits are achievable. We understand how multi residential buildings perform and the complexities of providing high thermal performance outcomes due to limitations of solar access and natural ventilation systems and are happy to work with the project design team to ensure optimal results. For more information see the House Energy Ratings section of our website. |
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