Sustainable building (BASIX)

Reducing water and energy in new homes

The Building Sustainability Index, better known as BASIX, is part of the development process. BASIX is an NSW Government initiative that aims to create more comfortable and cost-efficient homes. You'll need to comply with BASIX if you're a builder or developer.

BASIX water target
Your BASIX water target considers factors in your region, such as soil type, climate, rainfall and evaporation rates.

Who needs to comply

What you need to do

How to meet the target

Who needs to comply

You’ll need to comply with a BASIX water target if you’re:

  • building a new home
  • doing a renovation that costs $50,000 or more
  • installing a pool or spa of 40,000 litres or more

The aim is that new or significantly renovated homes must use up to 40% less drinking water and produce 40% less greenhouse gas emissions than average homes.

What you need to do

You need to demonstrate that your development meets the BASIX requirements.

First, do an assessment using the online BASIX Tool. Based on the information you provide, this estimates water and energy consumption and thermal comfort.

Once you've completed the assessment and met the BASIX targets, generate a BASIX certificate and submit it with your development application (DA) or complying development certificate. Find out more at BASIX.

How to meet the target

There are lots of things you can do to help meet your water target. For example, you could consider:

  • low-water landscaping for the garden
  • alternative water sources, like a rainwater tank
  • WELS 4-star rated fixtures, including taps, showerheads, dishwashers, washing machines and toilet suites.

You'll find more at BASIX, plus get some inspiration with water saving tips.