How Much Does a Performance Solution Report Cost in Australia?

Performance solution reports are a key requirement for many construction and remediation projects across Australia. These reports provide a pathway to compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) when a project’s design or circumstances do not align with the standard Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) provisions. 

Understanding the cost of a performance solution report is essential for effective project planning and budgeting, especially for senior decision-makers and property managers in sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, commercial, and strata.

What is a Performance Solution Report?

A performance solution report is a formal document that demonstrates how a building or project meets the performance requirements of the NCC through alternative solutions, rather than strictly following prescriptive DtS provisions. These reports are often required when innovative designs, unique site conditions, or specific client needs call for a tailored approach to compliance.

When is it required?

• When a project design deviates from DtS provisions of the NCC.
• For complex or innovative building elements, such as advanced fire safety systems, energy efficiency upgrades, or accessibility modifications.
• In response to regulatory or stakeholder requests for evidence of compliance.

Performance solution reports are commonly needed for new builds, refurbishments, and remediation projects in major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.

Factors Influencing Performance Solution Report Costs

The cost of a performance solution report in Australia varies based on several key factors:

• Project Size and Complexity: Residential and small commercial projects typically incur lower costs than large-scale or complex developments such as hospitals, schools, or industrial facilities.
• Type of Performance Solution: Reports addressing fire safety, energy efficiency, or accessibility may require different levels of analysis and expertise.
• Specialist Expertise Required: Engaging a fire engineer, building surveyor, or other specialist consultants can impact the overall cost.
• Location and Regulatory Requirements: Local council regulations and state-specific compliance standards can influence the scope and cost of the report.

Typical Cost Ranges in Australia

Below is a general guide to performance solution report costs in Australia:

Project Type / Report

Typical Cost Range (AUD)

Simple residential or small commercial

$1,300–$3,500+

Medium to large/complex projects

$3,500–$8,000+

Specialist reports (e.g., fire engineering)

$7,000–$8,000+

Additional fees (e.g., fire brigade referral, access consulting)

Varies

How are quotes provided?

• Fixed Fee: Most common for well-defined scopes.
• Daily or Hourly Rates: Used for projects with evolving requirements or where additional site visits and stakeholder meetings are anticipated.

What’s Included in a Performance Solution Report?

A high-quality performance solution report typically includes:

• Site Assessment and Documentation Review: Detailed analysis of existing conditions, plans, and relevant documentation.
• Consultation with Stakeholders: Engagement with clients, designers, regulatory authorities, and other key parties to clarify objectives and compliance pathways.
• Preparation of Design Brief and Compliance Strategy: Outlining the approach to meeting NCC performance requirements.
• Final Report and Recommendations: Comprehensive documentation of findings, compliance strategies, and any recommended actions or further studies.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

To receive a precise and transparent quote for a performance solution report:

• Provide a Detailed Project Scope: Include all relevant plans, specifications, and intended outcomes.
• Engage a Qualified, Experienced Consultant: Look for firms with proven expertise in performance-based building solutions and a track record of successful compliance outcomes.
• Questions to Ask Your Advisor:
  
  • What is included in the quoted fee?
  • Are there potential additional costs (e.g., for site visits or regulatory referrals)?
  • What is the expected timeline for report delivery?
  • How will the report address sustainability and carbon neutrality objectives?

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Why Choose CARAS for Your Performance Solution Report?

CARAS stands out as a trusted partner for performance solution reports in Australia, offering:

• Expertise Across Sectors: Deep experience in infrastructure, health, education, commercial, NDIS, remediation, and energy projects.
• Commitment to Sustainability: CARAS is on track to achieve Climate Active carbon neutral certification, reflecting a genuine commitment to sustainable construction solutions.
• Client-Focused, Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees, tailored to your project’s unique needs.
• End-to-End Support: From project inception to completion, CARAS provides advisory and project management services that deliver peace of mind and improved environments for all stakeholders.

Explore related CARAS services:

• Project Management
• Fire Safety Advisory
• Contaminated Land Advisory

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare a performance solution report?
Most reports are completed within 2–4 weeks, depending on project complexity and stakeholder availability.

Can performance solution report costs be reduced?
Providing a clear project brief and all necessary documentation upfront can help streamline the process and minimise additional fees.

What happens if further solutions are needed?
If additional performance solutions or compliance pathways are identified during the process, your consultant will outline any extra requirements and associated costs before proceeding.

Ready to see how we can help? Get in Touch

CARAS is dedicated to delivering expert, sustainable, and reliable advisory and project management services for your next project. Ready to see how we can help? Get in Touch

References

[1] Australian Building Codes Board. “Performance Solutions.” https://www.abcb.gov.au/building-compliance/performance-solutions
[2] NSW Government. “Performance Solutions for Building Approvals.” https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/building-and-development/performance-solutions
[3] Climate Active. “Certified Organisations.” https://www.climateactive.org.au/buy-climate-active/certified-members
[4] Engineers Australia. “Fire Safety Engineering.” https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/Communities-And-Groups/Technical-Societies/Fire-Safety
[5] CARAS. “Services.” https://www.caras.com.au/services

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