Compliance Reviews
Is a Second Opinion Allowed? Yes!
Sometimes, it’s not about questioning the original energy report — it’s about making sure everyone’s working from the same page.
Just like you’d seek a second or third opinion from a doctor about your health, builders, architects, designers, and clients regularly turn to House of Stars for that extra layer of clarity — especially when design changes, budget pressure, or code confusion puts a project at risk.
A second opinion is not just a fallback — it’s a valuable, proactive step. It can reveal overlooked compliance options, suggest more cost-effective product selections, prevent unnecessary upgrades, and in many cases, avoid expensive redesigns. Some of our clients have saved tens of thousands.
Others have simply gained the peace of mind to move forward with confidence.
That’s why second opinions are a regular part of our service offering — delivered with the same practicality, collaboration, and deep legislative knowledge that sets House of Stars apart.
Because when the stakes are high and the path isn’t clear, a second look can make all the difference.
Common Reasons Clients Request a Second Opinion
- Costs have blown out (e.g. glazing, insulation)
- Project is no longer viable, and a second opinion is needed before committing to a full redesign
- Conflicting advice from your team or suppliers
- The glazing requirements may not be realistic for current supply options
- Original energy report is missing and cannot be located
- Original energy assessor is no longer in business or unavailable
- Design has changed since the original approval
- Building approval has lapsed
- Retrospective approval is required
- Client is unsure which code or compliance pathway applies to their project
- You simply want peace of mind
What Clients Are Saying About Our Second Opinion Service.
“Helen helped us explore a different compliance pathway we didn’t know existed. It gave our project flexibility and saved us money where it counted. As owner-builders, it was daunting, but Helen always answered our calls and made the process feel manageable.”
“My project was so stressful I was losing my hair over it, until I found Helen. She brought reassurance, practical advice, and a sense of calm that I desperately needed. She helped us make sense of the process and got everything back on track. I honestly don’t know what we would’ve done without her.”
“Helen’s deep understanding of energy compliance and the code allowed us to optimise thermal performance without compromising the architectural integrity of the design or the client’s budget. Her collaborative approach, particularly with our building certifier, helped align the whole team and ensured a smooth pathway to approval.”
“My daughter received a quote for glazing based on the specs in her energy report, and the upgrade from clear glass came in at $60,000 for their modest home build. The glazing supplier suggested having the report reviewed by House of Stars. Helen quickly identified that the upgrade was due to incorrect floor areas in the glazing tables. With that sorted, we were able to put the $60K towards different upgrades in the home. We understand that sometimes things are unintentionally missed — and we were ecstatic to have a second set of eyes. Helen was a game-changer. It cost us $600 to save $60,000.”
Done Right
Because the cost of interpretation can be expensive.
On Time
Let’s face it, time is money.
On Budget
Because sustainable housing is affordable housing.
Second Opinion
insightful reviews for better outcomes