BCA Section J Assessment

BCA Section J Assessment

A BCA Section J Assessment is required to verify that a proposed building complies with the relevant energy efficiency provisions of the BCA. The results and recommendations are compiled in a BCA Section J Report for submission to the local building authority. This is required for all non- residential buildings to obtain a building permit or Construction Certificate (CC), throughout Australia.

There are two main BCA Section J Assessment methods used for compliance purposes. They are Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) and Verification using a reference building (JV3). Generally DTS is the preferred method, as it is usually the most straight forward and less labour intensive to conduct. JV3 is most commonly used for designs where compliance under DTS is not possible, or where there is the potential for construction cost savings.

BCA Section J Assessment: DTS

The proposed building design and its services are examined and checked against all relevant DTS provisions of BCA Section J, Volume 1. Included as part of this assessment (where applicable) are completion of the BCA Glazing Calculator and BCA Lighting Calculator spread sheets. Areas of non-compliance are addressed with recommendations for upgrades or changes to meet minimum DTS levels. This process often involves consultation with the client or building designer to ensure project goals and budgets are adhered to.

BCA Section J Assessment: JV3

Sophisticated thermal modelling software is used to approximate the proposed buildings annual energy consumption. A benchmark or target is also generated using a reference building – which is usually of an identical design, but differing in that it meets minimum DTS levels. The annual energy consumption of the proposed building must be equal to or less than that of the reference building. This assessment method, although costing more for the initial service, can often result in far greater cost savings in construction.