Need Section J Compliance? 

Section J Compliance FAQ's

• How do I comply with Section J?

  To comply with Section J requirements your project must meet minimum energy targets as outlined in Section J of the BCA. We can help you comply with Section J - get in touch now here.

• What is Section J?

  Also known as a Part J report, a section J report highlights the energy efficiency requirements for a Class 3, 5, 7, 8 and 9 building (commercial), this is defined by Section J (or Part J) of Volume One of the National Construction Code (NCC), formally known as the Building Code of Australia (BCA).Section J Method of Compliance (Deemed to Satisfy) is used when the Evidence of Suitability method using the Deemed to Satisfy (DtS) Provisions of Part J of the Energy Efficiency section of the NCC Volume 1 have been chosen as the most appropriate method to assess the compliance of the proposed development.

   

  The Building Code of Australia outlines that Section J reports should be prepared using Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) provisions and verification using a reference building (JV3) verification methodology.

   

  At Certified Energy, we prepare Section J Compliance reports using both methods.

   

  As Australias climate is varied, this leads to different locations having different heating and cooling requirements. As such, the energy efficiency DtS provisions vary regarding location.  The NCC have classed these locations into 8 zones.

   

  Find out more about the climate zones of the NCC here. 

   

   

• When do I need a Section J Report?

  • A Section J report is required by all non-residential (commercial) buildings that fall between the classes of 2-9.
  • It is required in all states of Australia.
  • Most councils and certifiers need a section J assessment during the Development Application stage.

   

  To read more about Section J Requirements, click here

   

• What's the overall point of a Section J report?

  • The overall objective is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The aim of the NCC is to lessen energy consumption for heating, ventilation, lighting and other services used by new buildings.
  • Working towards improving systems that directly consume energy.
  • Maintaining a greater level of control regarding the way heat flows in and out of the buildings fabric.

   

  

   

• What is the process to obtain a Section J Report?

  1. Client provides design drawings and plans
  2. Determine DTS provisions applicable to the building class and climate zone
  3. Desktop environmental review of drawings and specifications against DTS provisions of BCA.
  4. Identify areas of non-compliance within the design, and provide recommendations
  5. Provide Section J report for building permit

   

  

   

  BCA Section J reports are generally conducted by highly qualified and experienced energy efficiency consultants. Energy efficiency consultants who perform Section J reports must have an in-depth knowledge of energy efficiency measures of both the mechanical and electrical systems of a building. Having knowledge of the thermal properties of building fabrics is also important.

• How much does a Section J Report cost?

  The cost of the overall assessment of a building is dependant on its size and complexity and therefore requires a specific quote to be made. Prices for Section J reports range from $1200 to $4000 depending on the size and complexity of the project. 

   

   

• What is included in a report?

  • J1: Building Fabric
  • J2: Glazing
  • J3: Building Sealing
  • J5: Air-conditioning and Ventilation Systems
  • J6: Artificial lighting and power
  • J7: How Water Supply, Swimming Pool and Spa Pool Plant
  • J8: Access for Maintenance and Monitoring Facilities

   

  

  To read more about Section J, click here