National Construction Code (NCC) changes and how they will change the way Victorian homes are built.

16 May 2023

Which is why we are bringing to light to our clients the important changes happening to the Victorian National Construction Code (NCC). These changes have been made to assist and lead to lowering the cost of energy bills and cutting thermal energy use within homes by 25%.

Federal assistant minister for climate change and energy, Jenny McAllister, said, “Energy-efficient homes are more comfortable to live in, and cheaper to heat and cool and we want more Australians to have access to them.”

Different states may have different dates and changes but for Victoria, the introduction of 7-star energy ratings for new homes and also new accessibility standards will officially come into effect from 1 May 2023, but with a transition period granted to 1 October 2023.

How will this affect me?

If you are in the planning or designing stage of your build, it is important to discuss the possible impact of 2022 NCC in Victoria.

The introduction of 7 star energy rating from the originally 6 star may change the values and ratings of the following for your build.

  • Performance of the windows and door glazing
  • R- values increased in ceiling and wall insulation
  • Restrictions or lower ratings on specific on wall and roof colours
  • Changes to structural floor systems e.g. insulated slabs or sub-floor insulation

In addition to 7 star energy homes, Victoria encourages households to gain the benefits of future energy efficiency practices from investing in solar panels or building new homes that are all-electric.

The requirements to meet new accessibility standards may require the following within your new home:

  • Step-free access point into the home
  • New minimum doorway widths of 870mm
  • Wider hallways
  • A toilet on the entry level with additional
  • circulation and space requirements
  • Access to one step-free shower
  • Reinforced bathroom walls for support for future installation of grab rails.

At Diverse Builders, we understand that everyone is different and we will have the necessary skills, experience, and expertise to ensure we understand a client’s needs as well as meeting all National Construction Code requirements and beyond. With careful and considerate discussions in the planning stage, we can provide a tailored building experience that will allow your home to meet your energy requirements and the NCC to assist you achieving comfort all year round, lower energy costs and a home built to the highest of standards, structurally sound and built to last.

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