6 star moves ahead...

A decision on the introduction of 6-star energy efficiency provisions into BCA 2010 was finally made in mid-January 2010 by the Building Minister’s Forum. The changes will apply to both single dwellings (Class 1a) and apartment buildings (Class 2). Changes will also proceed for the commercial building sector.

The 6-star ‘deemed to satisfy’ (DTS) provisions for Class 1a include changes to all of the current standards:

• roof construction,
• wall construction,
• floor construction,
• glazing, and
• insulation of services (ductwork & piping).

It is important to be aware that the changes will also introduce new requirements which apply to Class 1 and 2 dwellings, regardless of whether a simulation rating or DTS is used. These are:

• maximum lighting standards, and
•  minimum hot water system standards.

There are also additional requirements in relation to the installation or construction of certain parts of the building, such as insulation, which all buildings will need to comply with.

Implementation
Single dwellings - It is expected that only the ACT and South Australia will move forward with introducing the changes from 1 May 2010. The Queensland Government previously announced it would move to 6-star by the end of 2010 and a date is yet to be confirmed. NSW, Western Australia and Victoria are understood to be considering how the changes will apply from 2011, whilst Tasmania and Northern Territory will move to 5-star from May 2010.

Apartments – The ACT, Victoria and South Australia will move to 6-stars for apartments, being an average of 6-stars and a minimum of 5-stars for individual units. Queensland, Tasmania and Northern Territory will move to 5 stars (average) and minimum of 4 stars for each unit, with WA and NSW waiting until 2011 to make any changes.

Each State and Territory has slightly different regulations about when these changes will apply. In most instances, the changes will apply to any building application lodged on or after the start date. However, some states have transitional periods, so you should check with HIA or your local council.

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Link to ABCB webpage – Australian Building Codes Board: BCA 2010 Revised Energy Efficiency Provisions