NatHERS Answered

• When Do You Need a NatHERS Certificate?

  NatHERS certification is required for all new developments with multiple dwellings, however NatHERS can also be used if desired on single dwellings.

  NatHERS is a national scheme that involves the thermal assessment of a development in order to generate a NatHERS energy rating, which can be used for the thermal section of the BASIX. NatHERS energy ratings are much more thorough, accurate and flexible than the BASIX thermal tool.

  In order to achieve the best thermal performance at the lowest cost we recommend using both BASIX and a NatHERS energy rating.

• Who Can Perform a NatHERS Assessment?

  Only assessors trained, certified and accredited by 1 of the 2 nationally operating Assessor Accrediting Organisations (AAOs) can use NatHERS second generation thermal assessment software to provide official thermal efficiency star ratings and issue relevant certificates.

  The two AAOs are the Australian Building Sustainability Organisation (ABSA) and the Building Designers Association Victoria (BDAV). At Certified Energy, our assessors are accredited by the Australian Building Sustainability Association (ABSA).

• How is NatHERS Assessed?

  NatHERS is assessed through a process of thermal modelling where the proposed dwelling is modelled using NatHERS approved software.

   

  The construction type, materials, glazing, lighting and insulation are used to assess the overall annual thermal performance of the project.

   

  Climate data within the software determines the development’s total heating and cooling load throughout the year, with specific heating and cooling targets outlined by NatHERS that need to be met.

   

  NatHERS Accredited Software is used to calculate an energy efficiency star rating and is based on expected indoor temperatures. This is assessed through the project’s design, climate and household use.

   

  The tool therefore does not take electrical appliances within the dwelling into consideration, other than the air flow from the dwelling’s ceiling fans.

• What Is The Process In Getting A NatHERS Certificate?

  1. Send your plans for quoting

  2. Approve the Quote

  3. Receive a Draft Report

  4. Approve the Draft 

  5. Payment

  6. Receive final Certification and stamped architectural plans.