A Practical Path to Energy Efficiency Compliance
At Torple, we work closely with homeowners, architects and building designers, early in the design process to identify potential energy compliance costs and strategies. Glazing is often one of the largest cost drivers, so obtaining quotes early can help streamline project planning and budgeting.
Where possible, we adopt the NatHERS Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) pathway. When this approach doesn’t align with the project’s design goals, we explore alternative compliance methods such as a VURB Performance Solution, offering flexibility and cost savings without compromising compliance.
Thermal Performance Assessments
We evaluate how your extension or alteration affects the building’s overall energy efficiency using NatHERS accredited software.
Tailored Compliance Advice
We guide you through the most appropriate compliance pathways for your project, ensuring practical solutions that balance cost, performance, and approval requirements.
Integrated Reporting
Our assessments are coordinated with other documentation, including building permits, planning approvals, and sustainability reports, ensuring smooth approvals.
Energy Compliance for Alterations & Extensions
When altering or extending your home, energy compliance requirements can differ between new and existing parts of the building. Understanding these requirements helps ensure your project meets legal standards without unnecessary expense.
- Change of Use
If your project involves a change of building class, it’s essential to consult with your building surveyor or certifier early. A change of use can sometimes trigger full compliance across the entire building—not just the new works. In such cases, surveyors often have limited flexibility to allow exemptions, so early advice is key to avoiding delays and unexpected costs. - Conditioned vs Unconditioned Spaces
When requesting a residential energy assessment, it’s important to clearly show the intended use of each space on your plans, including the location of any permanently installed heating or cooling systems. These details determine which areas of the building must comply with NCC energy efficiency requirements.
How We Help You
Navigate Alterations & Extensions
Initial Consultation
Book a 20-minute call to discuss your project scope, goals, and compliance obligations.
Site & Design Review
We assess your existing home and proposed changes to determine the best compliance pathway.
Energy Assessment & Reporting
We prepare a detailed report using either NatHERS software or Elemental Provisions, tailored to your project’s needs.
Submission & Support
We assist with submitting your report to the Relevant Building Surveyor and provide clarifications or revisions as needed.
Information We Need
The more detail you provide, the better guidance we can offer. To begin your energy assessment, please supply
- Site plan
- Floor plan
- Elevations
- Electrical plan showing heating/cooling devices
- Window & glazed door schedule
Other Helpful Information
When engaging us for your energy assessment, it’s helpful to share
- Your energy efficiency goals
Whether you’re aiming for minimum compliance at the lowest cost or targeting higher performance outcomes - Your project timeline
let us know your expected timeframes upfront. We’ll confirm our lead times and work with you to align with your schedule.
Have some Questions
What is an energy compliance assessment for alterations and extensions?
It’s an assessment to check how your renovation or extension affects your home’s overall energy performance. We use NatHERS accredited software to ensure your project meets the National Construction Code (NCC) energy efficiency requirements.
Do I need an energy report for my home extension or renovation?
Yes, most alterations and extensions require an energy report as part of the building permit process. The requirements vary depending on the size of the extension, how much of the existing home is being altered, and local council requirements.
Will I need to upgrade insulation or windows in the existing parts of my home?
Not always. If thresholds are exceeded, upgrades or alternative compliance pathways may apply. Some states allow for dispensations for the parts of the dwelling that are nor being modified. This varies from state to state, please contact us to discuss your plans.
What are my options if full compliance is not practical for my project?
Alternative pathways are available. We guide you through these options to find the most cost-effective solution.
How does Torple help with compliance for extensions and renovations?
We simplify the process by reviewing your project, assessing energy performance, and preparing a clear, council-ready report. We also assist with submissions and provide any clarifications needed for approval.
What types of projects does Torple provide compliance assessments for?
We cover a wide range of residential projects, including room additions, second-storey extensions, garage conversions, and side, front or rear extensions.
Hear From Those We've Partnered With
We take pride in delivering thoughtful, sustainable solutions—and our clients say it best.
“The Torple team has been fantastic over the years in providing detailed energy assessments. Specifically, in being pro-active in providing solutions to star rating shortfalls in an easy manner. I would highly recommend Torple due to their low fuss approach to every project they undertake”
“I have worked with Torple for many years on both residential and commercial projects and they play a valuable role in my business in both design development and the development approval process. They are prompt, efficient and good communicators and provide up-to-date information and advice.”
“Professional, efficient and easy to deal with. The team at Torple constantly deliver accurate reports quickly and provide helpful guidance throughout the process in an ever evolving space. Highly recommend for reliable energy rating assessments”.
“We have been using Torple for 18 Months now and have found them fantastic to deal with. They are solution driven and are always willing to work with us to produce the best outcome for our clients. We look forward to working with Torple for future projects & developments.”
“We love working with Torple to ensure our designs are compliant with NCC requirements for both Residential and Commercial Buildings. We appreciate their in-depth knowledge to help us achieve compliance with Section J requirements. They are highly skilled in their field, easy to work with and a great asset to our company.”
