Residential energy compliance is not always resolved through one universal assessment pathway. Some dwellings can follow the Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions directly, while others may justify investigation of a Performance Solution supported by comparison with a compliant reference building.

Verification Using a Reference Building, commonly known as VURB, provides a defined comparative method where it is available under the applicable NCC and jurisdictional provisions.

The central question is not whether VURB is generally better or more flexible than DTS. It is whether direct compliance remains the clearest response for the dwelling, or whether a reference-building comparison is legally available, technically appropriate and proportionate to the issue being resolved.

Can the dwelling comply directly through residential DTS, or should a reference-building pathway be investigated?

A VURB assessment depends on clear, coordinated information about the proposed dwelling. Floor plans alone are rarely enough to establish the reference-building comparison accurately.

The assessor may also need elevations, sections, glazing information, external shading, construction build-ups, insulation specifications and confirmation of the jurisdiction and approval pathway.

Providing the right documents early can reduce assumptions, clarify the assessment scope and limit avoidable modelling revisions as the design develops.

Which drawings, schedules and construction details are needed for a residential VURB assessment?