Class 1b Buildings: Can they be assessed under NatHERS

Region: All States

Assessor Question:

Can a Class 1b building ( bed and breakfast ) be assessed under the NatHERS portal using software? 

TechLink Response:

• Application of Part 3.12 of NCC Vol 2 is defined in Clause 3.12.1 (a) (i) and (ii) as being relevant to Class 1 and Class 10a with a conditioned space.
• There is differentiation between Class 1a and Class 1b buildings.
• As such, all Class 1 Buildings are included. 
• Accordingly, small hostel buildings up to 300m2 and Bed and breakfast dwellings may use a NatHERS rating to substantiate building fabric thermal performance efficiency so long as they contain a grouping of rooms that are a reasonable approximation of a normal home occupation including a kitchen that is set out in the NatHERS Technical Note as a minimum requirement.
• The NatHERS vision of a dwelling is one where bedrooms are provided for sleeping, bathrooms for ablutions and living/dining/kitchen space in a centralized arrangement for the shared use of the occupants.
• If bed and breakfast accommodation does not fit that understanding including a kitchen then it will not satisfy the NatHERS Technical Note provisions.