Section J Answered

• When Do You 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.

• Who Can Perform a Section J Report?

  BCA Section J reports are generally conducted by highly qualified and experienced energy efficiency consultants.

  Consultants who perform Section J reports must have an in-depth knowledge of the energy efficiency measures of both mechanical and electrical systems of a building.

  Having knowledge of the thermal properties of building fabrics is also important.

• How is Section J Assessed?

  As stated, Section J compliance is assessed against nine categories as described in section J of the National Construction Code.

   

  Based on the type of dwelling, the building is measured against these categories in order to assess its assumed thermal performance for new dwellings or rate its assumed existing thermal performance for alterations and additions on existing properties.

   

  Specifically, each building is assessed using a glazing calculator to assess the overall thermal performance of glazed elements with glazing and frame types taken into consideration as well as window orientation and relative ratio of glass to wall, and glass to floor.

   

  A lighting calculator is also used to assess the required and maximum energy usage of any given room within the building in order to reduce energy consumption as well as to meet overall state and national energy efficiency goals.

   

  Areas that do not comply under the Section J provisions will need recommendations in order to meet the minimum requirements of the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) provisions.

• What Is The Process In Getting 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