12 min read

What does a basix consultant do?

By Jamie Bonnefin on Jan 28, 2025 9:01:35 AM

If you've clicked on this article, chances are you're wondering: What does a BASIX Consultant do? What qualifications do they have? And should you hire a BASIX Consultant for your project, or complete your BASIX assessment using the DIY method? If so, you've come to the right place!

In this article, we're going to discuss:

 

Introduction

In the realm of residential development in NSW, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a mandate. The Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) was introduced by the NSW Government in 2004 as part of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act to promote sustainable residential development. Applicable to new residential projects and major renovations in NSW valued at $50,000 or more, a BASIX certificate is essential for development approval (NSW Planning Portal, 2023). 

The BASIX certificate aims to make homes more resilient by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, ultimately resulting in financial savings for homeowners and ecological benefits for the world. The goal is to reduce water consumption by up to 40% and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25%, ensuring that homes are environmentally responsible and cost-effective (Certified Energy, 2024).

A BASIX Consultant plays a pivotal role in this sustainability journey. These professionals are experts in assessing and ensuring compliance with BASIX requirements for residential developments. Their work is crucial in helping developers, architects, surveyors, and homeowners navigate the complexities of the BASIX certification process. By leveraging their expertise, BASIX Consultants ensure that new residential projects and significant alterations to existing dwellings meet the sustainability criteria set by the NSW Government.

The role of a BASIX Consultant extends beyond mere compliance. They provide invaluable advice on building design, materials, and appliances to enhance the sustainability of a project. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of the building contributes to its overall sustainability.

For homeowners, developers and architects, hiring a BASIX Consultant can lead to significant benefits. These professionals bring specialised knowledge and experience, which can streamline the development application process, save time and money, and result in better sustainability outcomes. 



What is a BASIX Consultant?

A BASIX Consultant is a specialised professional who plays a crucial role in ensuring that residential developments in NSW comply with the BASIX requirements. These consultants are experts in sustainable building practices and are well-versed in the intricacies of the BASIX assessment process. Their primary responsibility is to guide homeowners, developers, architects, and builders through the complex requirements of BASIX, ensuring that new constructions and renovations meet the necessary sustainability standards.

The Expertise of a BASIX Consultant

BASIX Consultants have a thorough understanding of the NSW environmental planning and assessment legislation, and they are knowledgeable about the different criteria that need to be considered during the BASIX evaluation. This broad expertise enables them to offer precise and efficient assessments, ensuring that all components of the development are compliant with BASIX standards.



The Role of a BASIX Consultant in the Development Application Process

Initial Consultation and Project Assessment

The involvement of a BASIX Consultant begins with an initial consultation, where they assess the project's scope and specific requirements. This stage is critical as it sets the foundation for the entire BASIX assessment process. 

Detailed BASIX Assessment

Once the initial assessment is complete, the BASIX Consultant conducts a detailed BASIX assessment. This involves using specialised software and tools to evaluate the project's compliance with BASIX criteria. The assessment covers three main areas: water efficiency, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency (NSW Planning, 2023). The consultant ensures that the project meets the required standards in each of these areas, providing recommendations for any necessary adjustments required to achieve a passing score.

Preparation of BASIX Certificate

After completing the detailed assessment, the BASIX Consultant prepares the BASIX certificate, which is a crucial document for the development application process. The certificate outlines the project's compliance with BASIX requirements and includes specific measures to be implemented to achieve sustainability targets. This document is submitted as part of the development application to the local council or relevant authority.

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Qualifications of a BASIX Consultant

The role of a BASIX Consultant is both specialised and multifaceted, requiring a unique blend of education, certifications, and skills. These qualifications ensure that consultants are well-equipped to guide residential projects in NSW through the complex requirements of the BASIX.

Educational Background

A strong educational foundation is essential for a BASIX Consultant. Typically, these professionals hold a degree in fields such as environmental science, architecture, engineering, or building and construction management. These disciplines provide the necessary knowledge of sustainable building practices, environmental regulations, and construction methodologies. Additionally, coursework in energy efficiency, water conservation, and thermal comfort is highly beneficial, as these areas are critical components of the BASIX assessment.

Accreditation

Certifiers are typically experienced professionals in the fields of building design, architecture, engineering, or environmental science. To become accredited, certifiers must undergo rigorous training and certification processes, ensuring they have a thorough understanding of the requirements and the technical expertise to conduct accurate assessments. Accreditation is provided by recognised bodies, some of which include the Australian Building Sustainability Association (ABSA) and the NatHERS.

At Certified Energy, our assessors are accredited by the Australian Building Sustainability Association (ABSA). Get a Quote

Professional Certifications

In addition to a relevant educational background, BASIX Consultants often hold professional certifications that demonstrate their expertise and commitment to sustainable building practices. One such certification is the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) Assessor accreditation, which is recognised nationally and involves rigorous training in thermal performance assessment. (NatHERS, 2024) This certification is particularly valuable as it complements the BASIX requirements and enhances the consultant's ability to provide comprehensive sustainability assessments.

Practical Experience

Practical experience is another crucial aspect for BASIX Consultants. Hands-on experience in the construction industry, particularly in roles related to sustainability and energy efficiency, provides invaluable insights into the practical challenges and solutions associated with sustainable building practices. This experience enables consultants to offer practical, real-world advice and recommendations to clients, ensuring that projects not only meet regulatory requirements but also achieve optimal sustainability outcomes.

Skills and Competencies

A successful BASIX Consultant possesses a range of skills and competencies that are essential for their role. These include:

  • Analytical Skills: The ability to analyse complex data and assess various aspects of a building's design and construction to ensure compliance with BASIX requirements.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail is crucial for identifying potential issues and ensuring that all aspects of the project meet the necessary criteria.
  • Communication Skills: Effective communication skills are essential for liaising with clients, architects, builders, and regulatory authorities. This includes the ability to explain complex technical information in a clear and understandable manner.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify and address potential challenges and provide practical solutions to enhance the sustainability of the project.

Continuous Professional Development

The field of sustainable building practices is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and best practices emerging regularly. As such, continuous professional development is essential for BASIX Consultants. This involves staying up-to-date with the latest industry developments, attending relevant training courses and workshops, and participating in professional organisations and networks. Continuous learning ensures that consultants remain at the forefront of their field and can provide the most current and effective advice to their clients.

To Summarise

The qualifications of a BASIX Consultant encompass a combination of education, certifications, practical experience, and essential skills. These qualifications ensure that consultants are well-equipped to guide residential projects in NSW through the complex requirements of BASIX, achieving optimal sustainability outcomes and compliance with regulatory standards. By hiring a qualified BASIX Consultant, clients can navigate the assessment process with confidence, ensuring the success of their projects.



Benefits of Hiring a BASIX Consultant

Expertise and Knowledge

One of the primary benefits of hiring a BASIX Consultant is their extensive expertise and knowledge in sustainable building practices and BASIX requirements. These professionals are well-versed in the intricacies of the BASIX assessment process and understand the various criteria that need to be considered. Their comprehensive understanding allows them to provide accurate and efficient assessments, ensuring that all aspects of the development are in line with BASIX requirements.

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Time and Cost Efficiency

Although hiring a BASIX Consultant can be costly depending on the complexity and size of a project, they’re expertise almost always guarantees cost savings in the long run. The consultant's expertise ensures that the BASIX assessment is conducted accurately and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of costly errors and delays in the development application process. Additionally, BASIX Consultants can provide valuable insights and recommendations that may not be apparent to those unfamiliar with the process, leading to more sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

Compliance and Risk Management

Compliance with BASIX requirements is not just about meeting regulatory standards; it also involves minimizing the risk of non-compliance penalties. BASIX Consultants play a vital role in this regard by conducting thorough assessments and ensuring that all aspects of the development meet the necessary criteria. Their expertise helps identify potential issues early in the planning stage, allowing for timely adjustments and reducing the risk of modifications later on. This proactive approach not only assures compliance, but also contributes to the overall success of the project.

Enhanced Sustainability Outcomes

BASIX Consultants bring a holistic approach to the table, considering how various elements of the development interact with each other to create a sustainable and comfortable living environment. For example, the orientation and size of windows can significantly impact the thermal comfort of a building, which in turn affects energy consumption for heating and cooling. By taking a comprehensive view of the development, BASIX Consultants can provide more effective and integrated solutions that enhance the overall sustainability of the project.

Improved Project Outcomes

The involvement of a BASIX Consultant can lead to improved project outcomes in terms of both sustainability and financial performance. By ensuring that the project meets BASIX requirements and achieves optimal sustainability outcomes, BASIX Consultants can help enhance the marketability and value of the property. This can be particularly beneficial for developers and builders looking to attract environmentally conscious buyers and investors.



When you can Do Your Own BASIX

While hiring a BASIX Consultant offers numerous benefits, there are certain situations where individuals may consider undertaking the BASIX assessment process on their own. 

Simple Projects with Minimal Requirements

For smaller projects with minimal sustainability requirements, such as minor renovations or additions that do not significantly impact the overall energy and water consumption of the dwelling, it may be feasible to complete the BASIX assessment independently. In these cases, the assessment process may be relatively straightforward, and the risk of non-compliance is lower. However, it is still essential to have a good understanding of the BASIX criteria and the necessary documentation to ensure compliance.

Access to BASIX Tools and Resources

The NSW Government provides online tools and resources to assist individuals in completing their own BASIX assessments. The BASIX online assessment tool allows users to input project details and generate a BASIX certificate. Additionally, there are help notes and guidelines available on the BASIX website that provide step-by-step instructions for completing the assessment. If you have access to these tools and resources and feel confident in your ability to navigate the process, you may consider doing your own BASIX assessment.

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Familiarity with BASIX Requirements

Individuals who have prior experience with BASIX assessments or a background in sustainable building practices may be better equipped to undertake the assessment process independently. Familiarity with the BASIX criteria, such as water efficiency, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency, is crucial for ensuring compliance. If you have a good understanding of these requirements and feel confident in your ability to meet them, you may consider doing your own BASIX assessment.

Cost Considerations

One of the primary reasons individuals may choose to do their own BASIX assessment is to save on the cost of hiring a consultant. While this can be a valid consideration, it is important to weigh the potential cost savings against the risks and challenges involved. Mistakes or oversights in the assessment process can lead to non-compliance penalties, costly modifications, and delays in the development application process. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider whether the potential cost savings outweigh the benefits of hiring a professional consultant.

Potential Challenges and Risks

Undertaking a BASIX assessment independently comes with its own set of challenges and risks. The assessment process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring a thorough understanding of the BASIX criteria and the ability to accurately input project details. Additionally, there is a risk of non-compliance if the assessment is not conducted correctly.



Conclusion

In summary, while it is possible to undertake a BASIX assessment independently in certain situations, it is important to carefully consider the complexities and potential challenges involved. For smaller projects with minimal requirements, access to BASIX tools and resources, familiarity with BASIX requirements, and cost considerations may make it feasible to do your own assessment. However, for larger or more complex projects, hiring a BASIX Consultant is recommended to ensure compliance and achieve the best possible outcomes for your project.

These professionals bring a wealth of expertise and a holistic approach to the table, ensuring that projects not only comply with BASIX requirements but also achieve optimal sustainability outcomes. Their involvement spans from the initial project assessment to the preparation and submission of the BASIX certificate, and extends through ongoing support and compliance monitoring.

BASIX Consultants play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties. Their thorough assessments and proactive approach help identify potential issues early in the planning stage, allowing for timely adjustments and reducing the risk of costly modifications later on.

In summary, a BASIX Consultant is an invaluable asset in the development of sustainable residential projects in NSW. Their expertise, knowledge, and holistic approach ensure that developments meet BASIX requirements, reduce environmental impact, and provide long-term benefits for homeowners. By hiring a BASIX Consultant, clients can navigate the complex assessment process with confidence, ensuring compliance and achieving the best possible outcomes for their projects.

 

References

NatHERS. (2024). Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme.
https://www.nathers.gov.au

Certified Energy. (2024). BASIX Bible.
https://www.certifiedenergy.com.au/basix-certificate/basix-bible

NSW Planning. (2023). Sustainability standards for residential development: BASIX. https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/buildings/sustainable-buildings-sepp/sustainability-standards-residential-development-basix

NSW Planning Portal. (2023). BASIX: Building Sustainability Index.
https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/development-and-assessment/basix

Jamie Bonnefin

Written by Jamie Bonnefin

Jamie is the Director of Australia's leading ESD consultancy, Certified Energy. Jamie is a Green Star sustainability leader, NABERS assessor and accredited ABSA and BDAV Assessor. With over 15 years of experience in Sustainable Design in the built environment industry, Jamie is passionate about his work.