What is Compare My Build?

An interactive comparison platform for home buyers to evaluate builders, plans, and inclusions in their region side-by-side.

What's the difference between a 7-star and 8-star energy rating?

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rates homes from 0 to 10 stars. A 7-star home is the current minimum standard in most Australian states. An 8-star home requires better insulation, glazing, orientation and sealing. The jump from 7 to 8 stars typically adds $5,000–$20,000 in upgrade costs but significantly reduces heating and cooling bills. See our 7 Star vs 8 Star Homes guide for details.

Should I install solar panels during the build?

You can, but many buyers install solar after handover to shop around for the best deal. However, if you want solar during the build, plan 'solar-ready' provisions (roof orientation, structural capacity, conduit, inverter location) so installation is straightforward later. Some builders include solar as standard; others offer it as an upgrade or package.

Is upgrading insulation worth it?

Insulation is one of the most cost-effective energy upgrades. Upgrading ceiling insulation from R4 to R6, adding wall insulation beyond the minimum, and adding underfloor insulation can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. The upgrade cost is typically $1,000–$5,000, and the comfort and energy savings are ongoing. See our Insulation Upgrade Guide for details.

What should I pre-wire for a smart home?

At minimum, consider pre-wiring for: structured data cabling (Cat6 to key rooms), smart light switch provisions, a central hub location (for NBN, router, smart home controller), ceiling fan provisions, and EV charger conduit. Smart home devices can be added later, but the wiring is much cheaper to install during the build. See our Home Automation Basics guide.

Are double-glazed windows worth it?

Double glazing significantly improves energy efficiency and noise reduction. In extreme climates (very hot or very cold) or noise-affected areas, it's worth the upgrade ($3,000–$10,000+). In temperate climates, the energy savings may take many years to recoup, but comfort and noise benefits may still justify it. See our Double Glazing Upgrade Guide for details.

Energy Efficiency & Smart Home — Selection Guide for Australian Home Buyers

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Energy Efficiency & Smart Home

Your complete learning centre for energy efficiency and smart home selections. Understand insulation, solar preparation, home automation and which energy upgrades are worth it.

8 guides 4 categories Independent & builder-neutral

Energy efficiency and smart home features affect comfort, running costs and how easily your home can adapt later. Many decisions are made during selections — insulation, glazing, solar and battery provisions, smart-home wiring, hot water and lighting. The right choice depends on the assessed design, climate, budget, current incentives and how difficult each feature would be to retrofit later.

Featured Guides

Start here — the most important reads in this learning centre

Energy Selections & Costs

2 guides

Energy Efficiency Selections Guide

What energy decisions you'll make and how to prioritise upgrades.

7 min read

Energy Upgrade Priorities

How to compare cost, comfort, current incentives and retrofit difficulty.

5 min read

Insulation & Thermal Performance

2 guides

Insulation Upgrade Guide

Ceiling, wall and underfloor insulation — R-values, options and costs.

6 min read

Passive Design Principles

Orientation, shading, ventilation and thermal mass — working with your builder.

6 min read

Solar, Battery & Hot Water

2 guides

Solar Ready Home Checklist

What to plan during construction for future solar panels.

5 min read

Battery Storage Preparation

What to plan for future battery storage — space, wiring, inverter location.

5 min read

Smart Home & Lighting

2 guides

Home Automation Basics

What to pre-wire for smart home features — structured cabling, switches, hubs.

6 min read

Energy-Efficient Lighting Design

LED selection, downlight efficiency, lighting controls and costs.

5 min read

Helpful Checklists

Pre-Contract Checklist

Includes energy and insulation decisions to confirm before signing.

Electrical Appointment Checklist

Includes smart home and EV charging provisions.

All Checklists

Browse every checklist on Compare My Build.

Related Learning Centres

Siteworks & External Doors, Windows & Hardware Lighting & Electrical Colours, Paint & Styling Building Process Product Guides Checklists Upgrade Costs Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

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Understanding your building contract, tender, progress payments and insurance — know what to check, what to question, and how to protect yourself before, during and after construction.

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Energy Efficiency & Smart Home

Featured Guides

Energy Efficiency Selections Guide

Insulation Upgrade Guide

Solar Ready Home Checklist

Energy Selections & Costs

Energy Efficiency Selections Guide

Energy Upgrade Priorities

Insulation & Thermal Performance

Insulation Upgrade Guide

Passive Design Principles

Solar, Battery & Hot Water

Solar Ready Home Checklist

Battery Storage Preparation

Smart Home & Lighting

Home Automation Basics

Energy-Efficient Lighting Design

Most Popular

Helpful Checklists

Pre-Contract Checklist

Electrical Appointment Checklist

All Checklists

Frequently Asked Questions

Contracts, Finance & Costs