What You Need to Know About 7 Star Building Requirements

The Australian Government has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This promise has led to the announcement of changes to the National Construction Code along with an increase in the BASIX standards for energy use and thermal performance for all new home builds in New South Wales. On 1 October 2023, the mandatory energy rating requirement for new homes increased from 5.5 stars to 7 stars. In this blog, we break down what this actually means and answer some of your frequently asked questions.

We are committed to building homes that are not only extraordinary inside and out, but also energy efficient for families to enjoy for years to come.

Rob Douglas - CEO MJH Group

To give you more certainty and peace of mind when looking for a new home, there are builders who will include what you need to reach BASIX 7 Star compliance to their standard designs, which also builds more value into your home right from the start.

McDonald Jones Sales Manager Nathan Klein says, “There are many elements in a home that contribute to how it achieves its thermal energy rating, including the climate zone of where you build in NSW, how you optimise the orientation of your home on your block, and the inclusions factored into your home by your builder. This makes your new home unique in achieving the required 7 Stars.”

Here is a quick list of questions to ask your potential builder to ensure your new home is 7 Star compliant:

What is included to ensure my new home is 7 Star compliant?

Depending on your block location, orientation, and design, achieving 7 Star compliance under the new regulations may end up adding to your build cost.  Discuss energy-efficient specifications early with your builders. At McDonald Jones, we offer double glazing, solar packages, ceiling fans, and premium insulation at no extra cost, saving you money now and in the future.

Are my windows and doors going to be double-glazed as standard? 

Windows is one of the most important factors in achieving 7 Star compliance. Windows and doors that come double-glazed ensure your home is warm and cozy in winter and cooler in summer. Double glazing your windows is one of the best and easiest additions to insulate your home, and at McDonald Jones, we include this for free. 

Is solar included for my new home at no extra cost?

More of our new home buyers are showing an interest in building more sustainably - not only because it is more energy efficient but also because it saves money on their electricity bills. Solar is far easier to install during construction phases on a new home, rather than adding it in later. We recommend aiming for a builder like us who has factored this into your construction. As part of our current promotion, we will provide you with a 6.6kW solar system (PLUS a free electric car charger in the garage) so you can start saving straight away.

How much money will I need to allow on top of my initial quote to pay for all the upgrades needed to achieve 7 Star compliance?

Because it is quite difficult to know if your home is 7 Star compliant without a BASIX assessment, most builders will simply put an allowance in your tender to cover any upgrades you will require. This allowance can change significantly once you have finalised your plans, as you may need a lot of additional upgrades to achieve compliance if your builder hasn’t factored this in. With McDonald Jones, you already have double glazing, upgraded insulation, solar and ceiling fans included at no cost to you – so achieving 7 stars on our standard floor plans will be a breeze.

At what point in the process will I find out if my new home achieves 7 Star compliance?

Most builders will send your plans off for a BASIX Assessment once you have finalised your plans and signed a contract, so you won’t know what the total cost to build your home will be until you are locked in. We believe in giving you all the information and pricing up front – that’s why we complete a preliminary BASIX assessment before you sign a contract with us.

At McDonald Jones, we're committed to a greener future and building better for you and your family. 

Find out further information on building a 7 Star home here.