Whilst the preview of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 is not due for release until 09 May 2022 (and later for energy efficiency and condensation matters) and adoption delayed until 01 September 2022, there’s no time like the present to start wrapping our heads around what to expect.
There are some big changes proposed and an adjustment period to really understand and correctly apply the provisions is a necessity. Transitional periods are always challenging. It takes time for all practitioners to fully comprehend the impact changes have on designs and regulatory assessments.
There is also a new referencing system. So, for some time you’ll need to be able move between the two systems – documentation notations, building permit referencing, etc. The actual logistics of transitioning a building permitting system is sizeable, particularly where applications under NCC 2019 are still active.
NCC 2022 Volume 2 Summary Of Changes
Based on the draft published by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) for public comment, the following list is a summary of the kinds of changes you’ll expect to see in the May preview release:
Administrative Changes
- Consistent structure and formatting between Volume 1 and Volume 2.
- Modernization on the online format – Eg, filtering of content by state/territory, building classification, climate zone, etc.
- A completely revised numbering system that follows a Section-Part-Type-Clause system.
- Acceptable Construction Practices separated out into ABCB Standards “The Housing Provisions” and “Livable Housing Design”.
Technical Changes
- Quantification of fire safety performance requirements.
- Quantification of glass installation performance – markings and breakage.
- Inclusion of installation requirements for windows.
- Quantification of maximum acceptable probability of structural failure.
- Further restrictions and clarification on the application of acceptable construction practices for footings, slabs and masonry construction.
- Revisions to the acceptable construction practices for stormwater drainage systems (Vic).
- Elaboration on the requirements for external waterproofing.
- Livable Housing Design Standard for Class 1a buildings – at least one toilet and one bathroom that complies and dwelling entrance accessibility.
- Quantification around building in bushfire prone area performance.
- Clarification on the application of deemed to satisfy provisions for heating appliances, fireplaces, chimneys and flues.
- Expansion on wet area construction requirements.
- Increased energy efficiency requirements (7-star and a whole-of-home approach to energy use).
- Enhanced condensation management requirements.
Getting Ready For Changes To The National Construction Code
The significant changes proposed for September are all the more reason to start preparing early for the transition to NCC 2022 to ensure you are ready to comply once the adoption date is in force.
If you need assistance with preparing for the changes to the NCC and interpreting the impacts on your project’s designs, please do not hesitate to contact us by calling 0404 300 268 or email laura@deemedtoperform.com.au.
