NatHERS Software
NatHERS assessments are completed using accredited software tools that model the thermal performance of a home and support the preparation of NatHERS certificates.
Updated context: NatHERS currently lists AccuRate Home, BERS Pro, Hero and FirstRate5 as accredited software tools for new home assessments. Tool versions and accreditation requirements can change, so current project advice should always be based on the latest NatHERS software and technical guidance.
NatHERS rating tools are used by accredited assessors to model the thermal performance of residential buildings. The software estimates how much heating and cooling energy a home is likely to need to remain comfortable in its climate zone.
The result is expressed as a NatHERS star rating, usually from 0 to 10 stars, with a higher rating indicating better thermal performance. Under current residential energy settings, NatHERS software may also support Whole of Home assessment requirements, depending on the project, tool version and applicable jurisdiction.
Thermal Ratings
Learn how NatHERS assessments work for new homes and apartments.
Energy Use
Understand how fixed appliances and energy systems can affect residential energy outcomes.
NatHERS-accredited software tools are developed by different software providers and accredited under the NatHERS framework. NatHERS currently identifies AccuRate Home, BERS Pro, Hero and FirstRate5 as accredited software tools that can be used for National Construction Code regulatory assessments. View NatHERS assessor toolkit information.
Although the tools have different interfaces and workflows, they are all intended to support consistent NatHERS modelling when used correctly by an accredited assessor. The quality of the rating depends not only on the software, but also on the plans, specifications, assumptions, climate zone, construction details and assessor input.
AccuRate Home is a NatHERS-accredited software tool used for residential thermal performance modelling. It is often associated with detailed assessment workflows and has an important role in the NatHERS software ecosystem. Like other accredited tools, its suitability depends on the project context, current software version and assessor workflow.
BERS Pro is another NatHERS-accredited software tool used by residential energy assessors. It supports the modelling of homes and apartments under the NatHERS framework and may be selected by assessors based on project requirements, workflow preferences and current accreditation settings.
Hero is a NatHERS-accredited software tool used for home energy rating assessments. It is part of the current NatHERS software ecosystem and is commonly recognised for modern assessment workflows. As with any NatHERS tool, the result depends on the quality of the project information and the assessor’s modelling decisions.
FirstRate5 is also listed within the NatHERS software ecosystem. It has been widely used in residential energy rating work and, where current accreditation and project requirements align, may be used for NatHERS assessments. Project teams should always rely on current NatHERS guidance and assessor advice rather than assuming a specific tool is required.
For most project teams, the more important question is not which software name appears on the assessment, but whether the home has been modelled accurately using current NatHERS requirements. Accredited tools are designed to work within the NatHERS framework, but modelling quality still matters.
Items that can affect the rating include:
NatHERS software is only one part of the assessment process. The assessor still needs to interpret plans, read specifications, identify missing information, apply the relevant technical note and model the dwelling consistently.
This is why assessor experience can be as important as tool selection. A strong assessment process helps reduce documentation errors, late redesign and confusion between design intent and compliance assumptions.
The clearest NatHERS assessments usually start with complete and consistent project information. Useful documents include:
Certified Energy can review your residential project documentation and advise what information is needed for a NatHERS assessment, Whole of Home assessment or related residential energy compliance pathway.