NABERS

NABERS is used to measure the environmental performance of buildings, developments, homes and tenancies. Effectively, it helps measure the water usage, energy efficiency, waste management and indoor environment quality of a building, home, development or tenancy and its total impact on the surrounding environment.

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NABERS explained

WHEN IS NABERS REQUIRED AND WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?

Costing and Time Commitments

Since the process of conducting a NABERS assessment is quite thorough and varies on a project-by-project basis, the cost of conducting the assessment can also vary greatly. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, we recommended that you contact us and obtain a quote. However, typically, NABERS ratings can range anywhere between $2000 and $7000. 

As for the time it takes to conduct a NABERS assessment and receive a rating, our turnaround will typically be between 5-10 business days. In light of this, if you have a deadline, let us know and we will make arrangements to meet it.

To obtain a NABERS rating, please send in your plans for quoting and if you are satisfied with the quote, we will proceed to visit the office space and produce a draft report in a timely manner. Once the draft is approved and payment is received, we will gladly issue a final certification for the project. 

IS RETROFITTING THE FUTURE OF RENOVATIONS?

In its simplest explanation, retrofitting refers to the addition of new features and technology to older houses or buildings. Examples of retrofitting strategies include:

• Upgrading energy and water systems to minimise consumption
• Considering solar shading devices
• Replace existing windows with windows appropriate for climate and exposure.
• Insulation and ventilation systems installed in the roof
• Draught proofing doors and windows
• Upgrade air-conditioning and find ways to introduce passive cooling/heating into the home.

Stakeholders and designers strive to meet sustainability goals and standards with their new build through innovative technologies, star ratings and special features. However, the thousands of builds of the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s that currently run through our cities and towns don’t meet the current sustainability targets. There are many opportunities for older homes and buildings to improve their efficiency capabilities and ratings through retrofitting procedures.

Some statistics to consider:

• 81% of commercial buildings are 10 years or older
• Energy savings of 50-70% can be achieved through retrofitting these buildings
• There is a potential $9billion in savings between 2015 to 2030 if we retrofit these buildings
• Currently, only 2% of older commercial buildings have been retrofitted.

Some challenges:

• Finance: Retrofitting is a long term initiative. In many cases, the building owners foot the bill while the tenants reap in the benefits, causing stakeholders to hesitate.
• Planning: There are often unknowns in a building system, and plans often need to be changed and adapted during the renovation process
• Existing tenants: Retrofitting occurs on an occupied and working asset. Tenants will experience inconveniences during the retrofitting upgrades.

Retrofitting is the future of renovations

Key reasons to retrofit include:

1. Creates new assets for the home or building
2. Long term cost savings to be had
3. Strengthens the tenant/lessor relationship
4. Increase a homes NatHERS energy rating and thermal comfort
5. Reduction in energy bills

Sources:

https://www.veolia.com/anz/five-rules-retrofit-0