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Media Release - Department of Planning Sydney: 3 October 2006 BASIX SYSTEM NOW IN PLACE FOR MAJOR HOME ALTERATIONS AND SWIMMING POOLS The NSW Department of Planning today reminded householders that the NSW Government’s building sustainability index (BASIX) now applies to new major alterations and additions, along with large pools.
Proposed home alterations and additions worth more than $100,000, and new swimming pools larger than 40,000 litres, now need a BASIX certificate if they require planning approval.
Department Director General Sam Haddad said the BASIX system has been widely supported for delivering long-term environmental benefits and ongoing savings for homeowners through reduced power and water bills.
“BASIX is expected to save 28.7 billion litres of water across NSW per annum and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 800,000 tonnes per annum,” he said.
Although the official gazetted start date for this new initiative was Sunday, October 1, the effective start date is today - the first business day after the long weekend.
Mr Haddad said householders would be able to use an online tool at www.basix.nsw.gov.au to receive the free BASIX certificate for their plans, before they are lodged with the local council or private certifier for approval.
“In regard to new alterations and additions, the tool analyses the type of planned renovation and sets practicable and cost-effective measures in terms of insulation, glazing and shading,” he said.
“It also sets minimum efficiency standards for lighting and water fixtures.”
Mr Haddad said the average-sized pool in NSW is 45,000 litres, and needs a similar volume of water every two years just to keep it full.
“This represents an additional 10 per cent increase in water consumption over and above what the average NSW household uses,” he said.
“If you are building a large swimming pool, BASIX requires you to install a rainwater tank, to allow you to top up the pool.
“As well, BASIX will ensure there is not excessive power usage to heat the pool.”
Mr Haddad urged all homeowners to use the BASIX system voluntarily, even if their renovation value was less than $100,000.
He said homeowners who did this would not have to comply with any separate, existing local council energy and water efficiency provisions.
The BASIX online tool for major alterations and additions, and swimming pools, has been available on the BASIX website since August.
The threshold value of alterations and additions, before they need to be assessed under the BASIX scheme, will drop to $50,000 by July 2007.
BASIX began to apply to the construction of new homes from July 1, 2004.
Independent research shows that owners of new homes which comply with BASIX can slash household water and power bills by up to $600 a year on average.
Anyone can call the BASIX helpline number 1300 650 908 for further information.
Media unit contact: Lyndall Derrig: (02) 9228 6295
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