- Roof Catchment Area You will need to provide the size of the roof area diverted to your rainwater tank. This area is measured in the horizontal plane and should include all non-trafficable roof surfaces measured to the outside of the gutters. If you have a stormwater tank then trafficable areas can also be claimed as your catchment, including gardens, lawns and planter boxes.
- Tank Storage Capacity You will need to specify in total litres the size of the rainwater tank/s and stormwater tank/s that you will be installing on your property. If your local council requires water storage for fire fighting, this capacity cannot be included in the BASIX total. If you have mains water topping up your tank water, they should to be installed 300mm from the base of your tank. If you need a higher top up level then it should be noted.
- Diversion of Rainwater Overflow You will need to indicate if the overflow of your rainwater tank is diverted to a stormwater tank. As rainwater tanks can overflow during heavy downpours, rather than waste this water, you can configure your tank to divert the overflow into another tank. This can be a stormwater tank (which allows you to also capture water from ground runoff) or even a second rainwater tank.
- Household Water Usage You will be assessed on how you will use your stored rainwater throughout your home. Rainwater is very versatile so can be used in all areas – garden and lawn, toilets, washing clothes, hot water system, pool, drinking and all other household uses.
Rainwater Assessment for BASIX Certification in NSW
Rainwater is arguably the best source of alternative water for achieving your BASIX (Building Sustainability Index) water target. It is recognised by the NSW government as being an important source of water sustainability.
When lodging your assessment application online, BASIX will assess your rainwater based on the four following areas: