Get an energy rating

There’s growing evidence that homes built with energy-efficiency in mind will be worth much more, both now and in the future. We are already seeing energy-efficient homes in New Zealand achieve an increase in value when compared to similar homes without these measures.

The Home Energy Rating Scheme (HERS) is a new government initiative that has been developed to assist New Zealanders make informed choices about the energy-efficiency of prospective homes they may be looking to buy or rent, build or renovate, or when selling or leasing a property.

A house is awarded star ratings that show its energy-efficiency performance and how it compares to other homes, plus expert recommendations on the best way to improve and reduce energy costs. It covers:

• How well the home’s design, materials and solar orientation keeps the inside temperature at a warm and healthy level.
• The efficiency of a home’s two biggest energy users – the space heating system and the water heating system (the space heating system assessment is being developed).

While currently a voluntary programme and in a development phase, Right House already has fully accredited assessors to conduct HERS assessments on both new homes and existing homes.

For more information on this scheme, visit the EECA web site or view a sample HERS report.