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Design Principles

Ventilation and Exhaust

ENERGY | Design Principles

Ventilation and exhaust systems are important for indoor air quality management. They are typically categorised into 2 types, natural ventilation and mechanical ventilation. 

Exhausts in individual dwellings 

BASIX assesses ventilation exhaust systems in 3 locations: 

  • Kitchen
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundry

For further guidance, refer to Single Dwelling Ventilation.

Exhausts in multi-dwelling developments

Ventilation and exhaust systems in multi-dwelling developments are assessed for both the dwellings and the common areas. Note that multi-dwelling developments have the option for both central and individual systems. 

For each dwelling in the multi-dwelling development, BASIX assesses ventilation exhaust systems in 3 locations: 

  • Kitchen
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundry

For common areas in multi-dwelling developments BASIX assesses ventilation exhaust systems in many areas including: 

  • Hallways and lift lobbies
  • Undercover car parks
  • Plant, switch, and service rooms
  • Garbage rooms
  • Facilities – gyms, community rooms
  • Other internal common areas 

For further guidance, refer to Multi-Dwelling Ventilation.

Last updated: 25/02/2026