If you’re thinking about building a new home, you’ve probably heard about the recent changes to the National Construction Code (NCC). You might be wondering what these changes actually mean and how they will impact building a new home.
The NCC regulates the Australian construction industry, setting minimum standards for safety, health, amenity, accessibility, and sustainability. In 2022, the largest update to the code since its inception was released, and these changes took effect in Victoria on May 1, 2024.
So, what are the changes?
1. Energy Efficiency
Previously, new homes were required to comply with a 6-star energy rating. Now, all new homes must achieve a 7-star energy rating. This change aims to reduce energy consumption, peak energy demand, and greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Whole of Home Compliance
In addition to the 7-star energy rating, homes must achieve 60% of net zero emissions. This considers energy usage from heating and cooling, cooking equipment, water heating, lighting, plug-in appliances, swimming pools and is offset by solar panels, and battery usage.
3. Condensation Mitigation
With improved airtightness in modern homes, managing condensation to prevent mould is crucial. The updated NCC requires additional ventilation measures to mitigate condensation within a home including ventilation of roof spaces and exhaust fans ducted outside.
4. Livable Housing Requirements
New homes must now be more accessible. This includes wider doors and hallways (1000mm between finished surfaces), an accessible toilet with a circulation space of 900mm x 1200mm, and provisions for grab rails. Homes must also feature one step free (zero-threshold) shower with provisions for grab rails and a step free (zero-threshold) access into the home from the street.
Conclusion
The NCC 2022 changes effective from May 1st represent the most significant update to home construction standards since the code’s inception. These updates mean new homes will be more comfortable to live in, healthier, will suit residents through their different stages in life and be cheaper to run.
