What's the Energy Rating of My House?
Wondering what the energy rating of your house is? Here are 3 ways to find out — from checking existing NatHERS certificates to booking a new assessment.
Taylor M
NatHERS & Home Energy Specialist
Quick Answer
To find out your home's energy rating: (1) Check if you already have a NatHERS certificate from when the home was built or renovated, (2) Search the national certificate register online, or (3) Arrange a new assessment with an accredited assessor. Most existing homes don't have a rating yet unless they were built or renovated after 2003.
Understanding Energy Rating Certificates
In Australia, home energy ratings are measured using the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Your home's rating is recorded on an official NatHERS certificate, which shows a star rating from 0 to 10 stars (with 10 being the most energy efficient).
Whether your home already has a rating depends on when it was built and what work has been done to it. Let's explore the different ways to find out your home's energy rating.
Method 1: Check Existing Certificates
For Recently Built or Renovated Homes
If your home was built or underwent major renovations after 2003, it likely has a NatHERS certificate. Here's where to look:
- Building documents: Check your property settlement papers, building approval documents, or occupancy certificates
- Building certifier: Contact the certifier who approved the building work
- Previous owner: Request the certificate from the previous homeowner if you recently purchased
- Builder/architect: Contact the original builder or architect who may have copies on file
Online Certificate Search
Some states maintain searchable databases of NatHERS certificates. Check your state's building authority website to see if this service is available. You'll typically need your property address and approximate date of construction or renovation.
Want a quick estimate? Try our free energy rating calculator — it takes under 2 minutes.
Get Your EstimateMethod 2: Get a New Energy Rating
If your home doesn't have an existing rating, or you want an updated assessment, you'll need to arrange a new energy rating with an accredited NatHERS assessor. This is common for:
- Existing homes that haven't been assessed before
- Homes preparing for sale (with new disclosure requirements from 2025)
- Homeowners wanting to understand their home's energy performance
- Properties that have undergone significant changes since the last rating
Ready for an official assessment? Find certified NatHERS assessors in your area.
Find Local AssessorsThe Assessment Process
Getting a new energy rating is straightforward:
Find an Assessor
Connect with accredited NatHERS assessors in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, or any location. Compare quotes and availability.
Provide Information
Supply building plans if available, or the assessor will measure and assess your property during a site visit.
Computer Modeling
The assessor uses specialized software to model your home's thermal performance across different climate zones.
Receive Certificate
Get your official NatHERS certificate showing your star rating and recommendations for improvements.
What Your Rating Tells You
Your home energy rating reveals important information about your property's thermal performance:
Star Rating (0-10 stars)
Higher stars mean better thermal performance, lower heating/cooling costs, and improved comfort. New Australian homes must achieve at least 7 stars.
Energy Consumption
Estimated annual heating and cooling energy requirements in megajoules, helping you understand running costs.
Improvement Opportunities
Many certificates include suggestions for upgrades that could improve your rating, such as better insulation or more efficient windows.
Cost Considerations
The cost of finding out your home's energy rating depends on your situation:
- Existing certificate search: Free if you can locate it yourself or through official databases
- New assessment: Typically $150-$500+ depending on home size, location, and complexity
- Detailed reports: Some assessors offer enhanced reports with upgrade recommendations for an additional fee
Getting multiple quotes is recommended to ensure competitive pricing while maintaining quality assessment standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check my home's energy rating online?
If your home has been rated before, you can search the NatHERS certificate register online. However, many existing homes don't have a rating yet. New homes and major renovations typically have certificates on file with the building certifier or previous owner.
Do I need to get my house energy rated?
You need a home energy rating when building a new home, undertaking major renovations, or selling/renting (depending on state requirements from 2025). Even if not required, getting a rating helps identify energy-saving opportunities.
How much does it cost to find out my home's energy rating?
If a rating already exists, finding it is free. For a new assessment, costs typically range from $150-$500+ depending on home size, location, and complexity. Get free quotes from accredited assessors to compare prices.
How long does it take to get a home energy rating?
Once you've engaged an assessor, the process typically takes 3-7 business days. This includes the property assessment (if required), software modeling, and certificate issuance.
Ready to Find Out Your Home's Rating?
Use our free calculator to get an instant estimate, or connect with accredited NatHERS assessors in your area.
Estimate Your Rating
Use our free calculator to get an instant estimate of your home's energy star rating.
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