BASIX & NatHERS Certificates

BASIX & NatHERS assessments are key to meeting sustainability requirements for residential developments in NSW. These reports support energy efficiency, thermal comfort, water savings and smoother planning approvals.

At Plan for Tomorrow, we provide fast, accurate certificates tailored to your project. Whether it’s a new build or an extension, we’ll help you meet compliance with confidence.

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Description
Case Studies
FAQs

In New South Wales, BASIX (Building Sustainability Index) and NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) certificates are mandatory for most residential developments. These tools are part of the state’s broader environmental planning strategy to reduce water and energy use while improving thermal comfort in homes.

What is BASIX?

BASIX is a state-wide assessment framework required under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. It applies to all residential dwelling types, from new builds to renovations, and is submitted as part of your Development Application or Complying Development Certificate.
BASIX assessments evaluate three key areas:

Water – Targets up to 40% less potable water use per person compared to pre-BASIX benchmarks
Thermal Comfort – Assigns heating and cooling load limits based on your location’s climate zone
Energy – Sets performance targets to help reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions from new homes

What is NatHERS?

NatHERS provides a star rating out of 10 for your home’s thermal performance, based on computer modelling of your design. When used in conjunction with BASIX, NatHERS allows for more flexible material choices, shading strategies, and insulation solutions. This often reduces the need for expensive upgrades like specialised glazing.

At Plan for Tomorrow, we provide BASIX & NatHERS certificates for:

Alterations and additions
Single dwellings
Secondary dwellings (granny flats)
Dual occupancies

To prepare your report, we’ll need your architectural plans along with a clear material and window schedule. We take care of the modelling, documentation, and compliance, so you can move forward with confidence.

Achieving BASIX Compliance in a Secondary Dwelling Conversion

Located in Abbotsbury, this project involved the adaptive reuse of an existing outbuilding to create a self-contained secondary dwelling. The surrounding neighbourhood comprises low-density residential housing, where upgrades and intensification are becoming more common. Converting non-habitable structures into secondary dwellings presents growing opportunities—but also introduces key BASIX compliance considerations, especially…

Maximising BASIX Sustainability Without Compromising Design

This project in Minnamurra involved a bespoke two-storey home designed to maximise river views and create a high-quality living environment. However, the architectural ambition presented sustainability challenges – particularly regarding the building’s form factor and extensive use of glazing. The proposed dwelling had a high form factor—meaning a greater external…

No. BASIX is mandatory for all residential developments in NSW. NatHERS replaces a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) method within the BASIX system and is usually the preferred method for assessing thermal comfort within the BASIX framework. Some developments are not eligible for the DIY method. Alterations and Additions do not require a NatHERS. We work with you to let you know which method is appropriate for your development.

We’ll need your architectural plans, including a clear material and window schedule. If you’re unsure, we can guide you through exactly what’s needed.

Most first draft BASIX & NatHERS reports are completed within 7 working days, depending on project complexity and how quickly we receive the required documentation.

Yes. If your design changes, we can revise and resubmit your BASIX certificate to reflect the updated details.

Absolutely. We work with architects, builders, designers, and homeowners. Whether you’re managing your own build or working with a professional team, we can support you every step of the way.