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Whether you have been living in your home for many years or are designing a new home, an energy assessment provides you with much more than a rating. It arms you with the knowledge and information you need to make smarter choices to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
There are two types of ratings:
- Existing homes ratings demonstrate the energy efficiency of a home that has already been built.
- New homes ratings are undertaken during a home’s design stage and are used to demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency requirements in the National Construction Code. In some places, this type of rating is also required for major renovations.
Note: If you want an assessment and rating for your apartment building common areas, visit NABERS.
Guidance to improve your existing home
A Home Energy Rating for existing homes certificate includes guidance on how to upgrade your home. From installing better insulation or energy efficient appliances, to adding solar panels and batteries, it offers trusted advice for homeowners. These improvements help reduce energy bills, while also making your home more comfortable to live in.
Energy efficiency improvements may also increase your property’s value when it comes to selling or renting your property in the future. Ratings help create a level playing field where homebuyers can compare homes across the market.
When to get an existing homes assessment
There’s never a bad time to get an assessment – but some situations present an ideal opportunity to use the information that’s included on a rating certificate. Consider an assessment when you are:
- looking to reduce home energy bills
- installing solar PV and/or a battery
- selling or renting out your home
- moving into a home you have recently purchased.
Learn more about Existing Homes
Note: Depending on where you live, major renovations may need to meet National Construction Code (NCC) requirements. A Home Energy Rating (NatHERS) for new homes certificate can be used for this purpose. A rating may be required to be disclosed in sales and lease advertising.
Guidance to design your new home
A Home Energy Rating (NatHERS) for new homes assessment is completed during a home’s design stage before construction begins. This rating demonstrates how a home will meet or exceed minimum energy efficiency requirements in the National Construction Code.
NatHERS is the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme which has been providing energy ratings for new homes for over 30 years.
This assessment allows you to make design choices that will deliver lasting savings and greater comfort.
Learn more about new homes assessments
When to get a new homes assessment
Assessments are usually prepared as part of applying for a building permit. Builders, designers, and architects often manage this process, but homeowners can also get involved.
Ask your builder or designer about a Home Energy Rating (NatHERS) for new homes assessment. You can be involved in discussions to improve your rating. Changes can be made to orientation, building specifications, materials, insulation and appliances, before your plans are locked in. This can improve your rating and avoids delays by ensuring you’re on track to meet building approvals.
A new homes assessment can also open the door to green finance options that reward energy-smart choices.
Last updated
24 Jun 2026