What is a BASIX certificate and when is it required for a DA?

What is a BASIX certificate and when is it required for a DA?

If you're planning to build or renovate in NSW, you've probably heard about a BASIX certificate.

But what is it, and when do you actually need one?

A BASIX certificate is a mandatory part of many development applications in NSW.

It helps ensure that new residential buildings meet sustainability targets set by the state government.

These targets focus on reducing water use, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and improving thermal comfort.

BASIX stands for the Building Sustainability Index.

It's a NSW planning policy that applies to most residential developments, including single homes, townhouses, villas and apartment buildings.

It also applies to some renovations and additions.

1. When is a BASIX certificate required?

A BASIX certificate is needed when lodging a development application (DA) for most new residential developments.

That includes new homes, dual occupancies, granny flats and multi-dwelling housing.

It's also required for renovations that cost $50,000 or more, or for any work that includes a new swimming pool over 40,000 litres.

If you’re unsure whether your project needs one, a planning consultant can assess your scope of works and provide clear planning advice.

Town Planning Sydney helps clients across NSW determine BASIX requirements early in the process to avoid delays at council.

2. Why is BASIX important for DA approval?

A valid BASIX certificate must be submitted with your development application.

Without it, council will not accept your DA.

The certificate shows that your design complies with NSW planning sustainability benchmarks.

It outlines details such as insulation, windows, lighting, rainwater tanks and hot water systems.

Town Planning Sydney works closely with designers to make sure your project meets BASIX requirements without overcomplicating your design.

This integrated approach to drafting and DA approval streamlines the entire process.

3. How is a BASIX certificate obtained?

The BASIX assessment is done online through the NSW Planning Portal.

You or your planning consultant will input the details of your proposed development.

The system then generates a BASIX certificate if the design meets the required energy and water targets.

Our team regularly prepares BASIX certificates as part of our architectural drafting and DA packages.

This means you don’t have to worry about missing key compliance elements or delaying your council approval.

Common BASIX compliance issues and how to avoid them

Many DAs are delayed because the BASIX commitments don’t match the architectural plans.

For example, a design might show a certain size rainwater tank, but the BASIX certificate lists a different one.

Councils will issue a request for information (RFI) if the documents don’t align.

To prevent this, we ensure that all planning documents, drafting files and BASIX commitments are consistent.

This coordination is critical to securing smooth DA approval.

5. Can you modify a BASIX certificate after DA submission?

Yes, but changes must be re-submitted and the new certificate lodged with council.

This usually happens when design changes are made during the DA assessment period.

It’s best to talk to a planning consultant before making modifications, especially if the changes could impact your compliance.

Town Planning Sydney offers detailed planning advice before and after submission to keep your project compliant and on track.

6. Real-world example: Adding a granny flat in Sydney

One client wanted to add a granny flat to their property in Blacktown.

We advised them early that a BASIX certificate was required due to the new dwelling.

Our team handled the drafting, completed the BASIX assessment and lodged the development application with council.

By managing all planning and compliance steps, we avoided any RFI and secured fast DA approval.

Navigating the NSW planning system can be complex.

Understanding when a BASIX certificate is required is essential to a successful development application.

A knowledgeable planning consultant can guide you through the process and help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Town Planning Sydney supports clients across NSW with expert planning advice, in-house drafting and reliable DA support.