Builders of new 7 Star Homes offered free Thermal Efficiency Tests
Sustainability Victoria is offering builders free tests for new homes built to a 7 star energy rating, ensuring they are as energy efficient as they are designed to be, and delivering a more comfortable home and lower bills.
The ‘as built verification (ABV)’ test uses thermal imaging cameras to check for missing or incorrectly installed insulation and a pressurised fan to test the air-tightness of a home. The test costs between $1,000 to $1,500 depending on the size and location of the home and is free through Sustainability Victoria’s 7 Star Homes Program.
ABV testing provides builders with the opportunity to measure the quality of the build and to confirm the energy efficiency rating of the home. The test can identify issues during construction when they can still be fixed by the builder.
“We’ve been working with the residential construction sector through the 7 Star Homes Program to boost the skills and capacity to design and build better quality and energy efficient housing that meet the new minimum standard,” said Matt Genever, Sustainability Victoria’s Interim CEO.
“Victoria is leading the way with energy efficient homes and these free thermal tests will instill confidence in builders and buyers that a 7 star home is meeting current energy efficiency standards.”
“With housing in Australia responsible for 7.9 per cent of all energy use, 29 per cent of all electricity use and 11 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions, these new standards are a crucial driver towards net zero housing.”
From May 2024, all new homes built in Victoria will need to achieve a minimum NatHERS energy rating of 7 stars through the National Construction Code (NCC) up from 6 stars, which has been the minimum since 2011.
The new NCC commenced on 1 May 2023, with a transition period to 1 May 2024, to help the construction industry with its transition.
The star rating system measures the amount of energy needed to heat and cool a home, with adjustments for different regions. In most locations, the extra star means a 25 per cent reduction in the energy needed to heat and cool a home.
Free ABV testing is available for 7-star homes built after 01 July 2022. Tests must be booked by the end of August.
For further information about the free tests and how to apply, visit Free ABV testing.