Energy and Sustainability Hub

The Building Designers Association of Victoria (BDAV) has been appointed an Accrediting Organisation by Sustainability Victoria (SV) to accredit Thermal Performance Assessors (TPAs) - previously known as Energy Raters - and Home Sustainability Assessors who conduct assessments in Victoria.  This section of our website contains information for persons seeking accreditation.

In addition, the BDAV was advised by the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency (DCCEE) on 30 September 2011 of our successful application to become a NatHERS Assessor Accrediting Organisation. In this capacity, the BDAV is able to accredit assessors to perform thermal performance NatHERS assessments under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme. This means that the BDAV can now accredit thermal performance assessors who wish to also operate outside Victoria. This is subject to the BDAV also complying with the requirements of each State jurisdiction, as each State or Territory may have additional regulatory or policy requirements for NatHERS assessors to operate in their particular State or Territory. Currently, the Tasmania, South Australia and the NSW Governments have indicated they will accept thermal performance assessments carried out by BDAV accredited assessors. BDAV is in the process of contacting the other State jurisdictions, and this website will be updated accordingly. (QLD and ACT do not currently require accreditation of thermal performance assessors.)

Persons wishing to enlist the services of an accredited TPA to have a thermal performance assessment conducted of their proposed dwelling design should visit the Find a Thermal Performance Assessor section at this website.

Persons wishing to enlist the services of an accredited HSA should visit the Find a Home Sustainability Assessor section at this website.

Thermal Performance Assessors

Thermal Performance Assessors (TPAs) conduct residential building thermal performance assessments.

Residential building thermal performance assessment is required for all proposed residential construction under current legislation, and measures the thermal performance of a proposed dwelling design.

Home Sustainability Assessors

Home Sustainability Assessors (HSAs) conduct assessments for homeowners who are seeking advice on how to improve the sustainability and comfort needs of households in Victoria. This may include advice on how to save costs associated with energy and water bills, how to live more sustainably by improving the comfort of the home, and reduce waste and options for a more sustainable garden environment.

These assessments have no connection with home sustainability assessments conducted on behalf of the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency under their Green Loans program.