There has been a 10-fold increase over the last three years in new homes registering under the Homestar™ rating tool.
This proves New Zealanders want reliable and independent assurance that they are buying and building, healthier homes that attain high standards of sustainability and efficiency, says New Zealand Green Building Council Chief Executive Andrew Eagles.
Homestar was introduced by the New Zealand Green Building Council, (NZGBC), in 2011 in response to the property and construction sector’s desire to provide a ‘stamp of approval’ for homes built in New Zealand.
“As we look to build significantly more homes it’s important that quality is championed,” Eagles insists.
“Home buyers want to know that the house they’re moving into is going to be healthy for their families, suit their life style and be built to a high standard.
“It’s fantastic to see the number of these warm and efficient homes rise from 670 to 6,700 in just two years.”
Auckland Councillor (and Environment and Community Committee Chair), Penny Hulse says the rise in uptake is good to see.
“The houses that we build now will be standing for the next 100 years.
“It’s important that we get it right first time.
“The type of home that receives a Homestar rating is the type of housing that we want to see more of.
“They help homeowners save money year on year, result in better health and well-being and help reduce our climate impacts.”
The new Homestar standard will be available from end of July.
Its release follows six months of industry input, a national tour, advisory group and scoping papers and makes the assessment process easier for the building and construction industry.
For more information visit the Homestar website.
