Sustainability Assessments - Existing Homes
No mandatory sustainability disclosure requirements currently apply for existing homes however home owners are being encouraged by both State and Federal Governments to upgrade their homes through the provision of cash rebates e.g. installing water saving devices, energy efficient hot water systems and water tanks.
The value and potential for sale of existing homes may vary considerably depending on how they meet the sustainability standards.
It is proposed that all sales of existing homes demonstrate their impact on the environment by requiring owners to have their homes assessed and then declare this assessment to potential buyers.
In ACT it is a requirement that a Thermal Performance Assessment be carried out and the result disclosed to potential buyers of existing homes.
In Queensland, it will be a mandatory requirement to complete a sustainability declaration when selling a house or unit from 1 January 2010. The sustainability declaration will not form part of the contract of sale, but will be used as an information tool to inform prospective buyers about the sustainability features of the dwelling. The declaration will be able to be completed by the property owner or a suitably qualified person (e.g. building inspector), and must be made available to prospective buyers while the property is on the market.
The federal government will make available 200,000 Green Loans of up to $10,000 from mid 2009 for sustainable home improvements. An assessment process will have to be undertaken by a registered assessor in order for the loan to be accessible.
SmartRate will be able to provide Sustainable Home Assessments from early 2009.
Contact us for more information.
|
How we can help you reduce your energy bills via a Home Sustainability Assessment :
- Review its thermal performance
- Advise how you may be able to improve your comfort
- Inspect the hot water system and household appliances
- Advise how you may be able to reduce your power bills
- Review the water usage in your home
- Advise on water saving fittings and fixtures
|