Significant Housing Changes in NCC 2022

Seagull on top of house

The National Construction Code (NCC) has been revised and will come into force on 1 October 2023, updating the previous 2019 version.  Changes to the NCC normally come into effect on 1 May, however given the significance of the changes noted below, implementation of the housing requirements is being transitioned.

Apart from format changes (which will take a minute to get used to), there are two significant changes in NCC 2022 for housing.

 

Energy Efficiency

Up until now, Class 1a (single dwellings) and Class 2 (apartments whether above/below another apartment) had to comply with the NCC requirements for insulation to the external fabric of a dwelling, being the floor, walls, windows and roof.  These requirements have been taken to another level, where a minimum 7 star energy rating is required, under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NATHERS

In addition to the upgrading of the external ‘shell’ of your home, there are now requirements to assess and take into account the following;

  • Efficiency of items such as heating/cooling equipment, hot water, lighting and pool/spa pumps,
  • Use of on-site renewable energy sources such as roof mounted solar panels. 

These changes to energy efficiency in housing are aimed at reducing the energy used to heat or cool your home, and in turn, reducing energy costs, and greenhouse gas emissions.  Whilst there will be some short-term teething issues in these changes, they are responsible and sensible, for home occupants and for our environment.

 

Livable Housing Design

Single dwellings and apartments will now need to comply with ‘livable housing design’ requirements under the NCC, which will provide housing that is step free at doorways and entries, have more room in bathrooms, provide wider doorways and allow for future installation of grab rails in bathrooms and toilets.  The new requirements are referenced in the new technical standard, the ABCB Standard for Livable Housing Design.

The changes are based on Livable Housing Design Guidelines (LHDG), published by Livable Housing Australia.  As an Accredited Assessor of the LHDG, Steven Bayer is well versed in the technical aspects of the new NCC requirements, which are welcomed, to provide a more accessible solution for all occupants.

We found a great article that gives more information on this topic here. You can also access further information on the ABCB website.

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