Homeowners will be forced to disclose information on energy and water use and the potential greenhouse emissions caused by their property before they can sell under planned Federal Government changes.
The Council of Australian Governments - on behalf of the federal, state and territory governments - will tour major cities explaining the disclosure policy.
Six options are being considered from a mandatory scheme that would cost owners about $800.
The change will require an accredited assessor to provide an accurate assessment on the building’s “thermal performance”, and a rating for the house.
There is also an owner assessment option, which would cost about $200.
That is a basic check list of performance. Other options would be voluntary.
The council decided on the mandatory scheme in 2009, dependent on the analysis that includes public meetings, of which information sessions this month are part.
A report by the Allen Consulting Group said there was a lack of awareness among prospective buyers or tenants and owners on the potential value of improved energy, greenhouse and water performance.
The council will be holding a public information session in Darwin on August 15. Public submissions close on September 12.
For those who cannot attend the metropolitan sessions, web-based seminars will be operating.
