Question 1

What is an energy efficiency report?

Accepted Answer

An energy efficiency report is a written assessment of how energy-efficient a home is, prepared by a NatHERS-accredited assessor. It includes an official 0–10 star NatHERS rating, a breakdown of where energy is being used or lost (insulation, glazing, air-tightness, heating, cooling, hot water), and a prioritised list of upgrades that would improve the rating and reduce bills.

Question 2

How much does an energy efficiency report cost in Australia?

Accepted Answer

An energy efficiency report costs $300–$600 for a standard existing home in 2026, and $200–$500 for a new build assessed from plans. Pricing varies by state: NSW $350–$600, VIC $300–$550, QLD $300–$500, SA $320–$550, WA $350–$600, TAS $320–$550, ACT $350–$600, NT $300–$500.

Question 3

What does an energy efficiency report include?

Accepted Answer

A full energy efficiency report includes: the official NatHERS certificate with star rating, a breakdown of annual heating and cooling energy demand (MJ/m²/year), an inspection summary of insulation R-values, glazing types, orientation and shading, identified weak points in the building envelope, and a prioritised upgrade list with estimated star-rating impact for each recommendation.

Question 4

Who needs an energy efficiency report?

Accepted Answer

Required for: new builds (NCC 2022 minimum 7 stars), major renovations, NSW BASIX compliance, and ACT property sales. Recommended for: existing homeowners planning energy upgrades, sellers wanting to justify price, landlords improving rental yield, and anyone applying for state rebates that require a baseline rating.

Question 5

Is an energy efficiency report the same as an energy audit?

Accepted Answer

Closely related but not identical. An energy efficiency report (NatHERS) focuses on the building envelope and produces an official star rating. An energy audit usually adds a deeper look at actual energy bills, appliance use, and behavioural changes. Most Australian assessors bundle both into a single inspection.

Energy Efficiency Report — Cost, Contents & How to Order One

What's in an energy efficiency report

Energy efficiency report cost by state (2026)

Order your energy efficiency report

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