Performance Solution Reports are reports that outline non-standard approaches to meet the BCA guidelines with analysis and design to show compliance when prescriptive solutions cannot be applied due to unique building / site characteristics.
A Performance Solution Report is prepared by a qualified building certifier who assesses the building design guidelines and provides an alternative solution that meets the requirements of the Building Code of Australia (BCA). The BCA is a national code that sets out the minimum requirements for the design and construction of buildings in Australia. The Performance Solution Report must demonstrate that the alternative solution meets the performance requirements of the BCA, and is at least as safe, reliable, and effective as a prescriptive requirement.
The Performance Solution Report must include a detailed analysis of the proposed solution, including the design, materials, and construction methods to be used. The report must also outline the performance criteria that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the solution, and provide evidence that the proposed solution meets these criteria.
In the case of SDA buildings, Performance Solution Reports may be required when the building design cannot meet the prescriptive requirements of the BCA due to the need to provide accessibility features for people with disabilities. For example, a building may need to provide wider doorways and halls, ramps and lifts, and adapted bathroom and kitchen facilities to accommodate people with mobility issues.
In such cases, the building certifier will assess the building design and propose an alternative solution that meets the accessibility requirements of the SDA guidelines, while also complying with the performance requirements of the BCA. The Performance Solution Report will outline the design, materials, and construction methods to be used, and demonstrate that the proposed solution meets the required performance criteria.
The use of Performance Solution Reports is critical to ensuring that SDA buildings meet the specific design standards set out by the NDIS, while also complying with the performance requirements of the BCA. By providing an alternative solution that meets the needs of the occupants and the site characteristics, builders can ensure that their buildings provide the best possible accommodation for people with disabilities.