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Section J Reports

What is a Section J Report?

Many Australian city councils require a Section J report for Development Planning and Construction Certificate applications to ensure compliance with the national building code. Also known as a Part J report, it addresses energy efficiency requirements for specific building classes as outlined in the National Construction Code (NCC). The Section J Method of Compliance (Deemed to Satisfy) is used to assess compliance, verified through a reference building methodology. We prepare these reports using both Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions and JV3 verification for accuracy and thoroughness.

Key Details

The primary goal of a Section J report is to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

  • The objective of the NCC is to minimise energy usage for heating, cooking, ventilation, lighting, and other building services.

  • Focus on enhancing systems that actively consume energy.

Ensure better control over the way heat enters and exits the building's structure.

When is a Section J Report needed?

A Section J report is mandatory for all non-residential (commercial) buildings classified within classes 2-9.

  • This requirement applies across all states in Australia.

Most councils and certifiers necessitate a Section J assessment during the Development Application phase.

How is a Section J Report Assessed?

Section J compliance assesses thermal performance in buildings based on the National Construction Code for new constructions and alterations. Key points include:

Assessment Process:

  • Uses a glazing calculator to analyse:

    • Glazing and frame types

    • Window orientation

    • Glass-to-wall and glass-to-floor ratios

  • A lighting calculator evaluates room energy usage to enhance efficiency.

Compliance Recommendations:

Areas failing to meet Section J standards will need recommendations for compliance with Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions.