Building Developments And BASIX

Assessment and certification programs are common and crucial to achieve durable, safe and energy efficient homes. A very common name which usually arises in this process is BASIX. How many of you do really know about it? Let's get familiar with BASIX.

BASIX or Building Sustainability Index, is a planning initiative of New South Wales Government. It requires all new buildings to be built and designed in such a manner so that they can achieve a minimum of 40% reduction in water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. BASIX also fixes the minimum performance level for comfortable insulation and thermal power of a building. This is done to both save a significant amount of money per year and improve the comfort level of every resident. This means it is a valuable contribution for the sustainability of every building and future of our communities.

What is the use of BASIX certification?

BASIX Certification identifies the sustainability features that are essential for a building's design. The features may include rainwater tanks, recycled water, native landscaping, AAA-rated shower-heads and taps, heat pumps or solar water heaters, roof eaves/awnings, wall/ceiling insulation and many more.

BASIX assessment is done depending on the building orientation, location, size, type of construction, window size and types, appliances to be used, etc. The assessment also considers thermal comfort to reduce the amount of energy used by buildings in order to keep them at a comfortable level.

BASIX Certification is a part of the documentation which is required to submit to the council when applying for a Development Application in NSW.

All of the new developments and complying development applications that are associated with new residential buildings must meet the BASIX standards, including:

• Dual occupancy dwellings
• Single dwellings
• Villas
• Unit & Multi unit developments
• Townhouses
• Swimming pools or outdoor spas with a water capacity equal or greater then 40,000 Litres
• Alterations & additions greater or equal to $50,000
• Granny Flats
• Boarding Houses, Backpackers and Lodging houses

The Starting Process

At first, submit your development application and if you consider to make any changes to the project, you must obtain a new BASIX assessment.

Assessing your application

Certifiers will assess and inspect your project, and if approved, it must be constructed according to the BASIX commitments.

Thus, getting certified through BASIX means ensuring next level of safety, durability and reducing the burden on mother earth, which is a major step against global warming.

Understanding The Reasons Of Hiring Consulting Engineers

Consulting engineers are the professionals who deliver a well planned and completed building project design. They are specially trained and have the knowledge to provide creativity in the building plans. A research on engineers has shown that consulting engineers work with new talents and solve all types of construction problems ease. They are not just engineers, but are experts with whom you can consult your building plans and needs. The final report ends with outstanding result of productivity and safety. The charges of engineering consultants depends on the basis of the project and the number of pros needed. The payments can be made at once or in intervals as per the contract signed.

Budget, Scope and Schedule 

Before you start working with a consulting engineer, make sure you communicate these three vital points.

• The budget should be discussed and set for the project before it starts. You should always keep some extra money for probable additional costs.

• The scope of the project is the boundaries or the definitions for an engineer within which he will act. Read the contract carefully and understand the requirements carefully.

• Make a proper schedule. Consulting engineers in Brisbane will provide you with the appropriate schedule according to your project. The schedule most likely affects when there is a change made on the budget and the scope. The schedule must contain progress reports and milestones so that you can understand the project's progress.

Communicate Personally

• Do not follow the same old communication rules where e-mails used to be the only mode of discussion. Poor communication is one of the main reasons behind most failed projects. Direct communication is the best way to address any problem or important topic. It eliminates misunderstanding between you and the engineers.

• Check the progress reports on a regular basis or in some intervals. If anyhow you want a change in the project's plan consider reviewing the budget, scope and schedule at milestones to avoid unwanted delays.

• If you have any confusions, clear them out immediately. Do not assume anything or leave as it is.

Consulting engineers are all time favourite for building projects. They are skilled personnels who run the project smoothly while providing the best advice pertaining to design, planning and usage of materials. However, make sure you locate efficient professionals for working with on your project and ensuring its successful completion.