7-star homes – the new standard

From the 1 May 2024, the minimum energy requirement for all new homes built in Victoria increased from 6-stars to 7-stars. So, what does this mean and how does it affect home buyers?

What is the NCC?

The National Construction Code (NCC) sets out the requirements for the design and construction of buildings in Australia, including plumbing and drainage work.

To align with the Australian Government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) saw an increase in the minimum energy rating requirement for all new homes, from 6-stars to 7-stars effective as of 1 May 2024.

What is 7-star?

Assessed by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), the house energy rating is a standard measure of comparison by which the energy efficiency of a home is evaluated. The higher the star rating, the less energy needed to heat and cool the home to keep it comfortable.

The climate zone of where you live, how you optimise the orientation of your home on your block, and the inclusions factored into your build are all elements in a home contribute to how it achieves its thermal energy rating. This makes your new home unique in achieving the required 7-stars.

Benefits of a 7-star home

The increase to 7-stars will significantly improve the thermal comfort of new homes and add increased value to those homes with ongoing savings well into the future. Other benefits include:

Year-round comfort
Less energy use
Lower energy bills
Less greenhouse gas emissions
Reduced heat loss and gain through roofs, walls, windows and floors due to thermal bridging
Energy efficiencies with lower heating and cooling demand
Better air movement
More effective insulation

Arden Homes will include everything you need to reach 7-star compliance to any of our standard designs on any orientation, which also builds more value into your home right from the start.

With years of experience in building sustainable homes, Arden Homes takes pride in our proven track record. The majority of our display homes are already 7-star, offering you peace of mind knowing that when you choose Arden, you’re selecting a builder with extensive expertise in designing and constructing 7-star homes.

Every Arden home is 7-star, all-electric, solar powered and includes reverse-cycle heating & cooling – at no extra cost plus, for a limited time, take advantage of our $20,000 cash discount* to save now and well into the future here.

*Information is correct at time of publication. Terms and Conditions Apply

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Understanding 7-star homes – the new standard

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