NCC 2022 Release

The much-anticipated National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 rule changes have been approved by Building Ministers. NCC 2022 is scheduled to be published on the 1st October 2022, with an expectation that States and Territories will adopt the new rules from 1 May 2023, with transition periods for new livable housing requirements, new energy efficiency and condensation mitigation requirements from 1 October 2023; and new low lead in plumbing product requirements from 1 September 2025.

As Thermal and Sustainable Design assessors the lifting of the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) from 6-star to 7-star and the introduction of Whole of Home assessment are significant changes that we have been preparing our clients for.

Under the current 6-star requirement, R6.0 bulk insulation to the ceiling of the roof space and R2.5 wall insulation has been standard practical low-cost specifications for achieving certification. In most cases, this will not be enough to meet the coming 7-star rating. An insulated slab and Low-E thermally broken double glazing can bridge the gap but will increase the cost of the project. It’s important to consult with an Accredited Thermal Assessor early in the concept design stage of your project for assistance in improving thermal performance through passive solar design. Some simple design measures can have a big impact – see our blog for further information here.

The Whole of Home assessment is a completely new element to NatHERS certification, adding the energy efficiency of major appliances to the assessment, along with carbon offset measures.

Under NCC 2022 you will be required to select the type and energy efficiency rating of heating, cooling, cooking, lighting, hot water appliances, pool pumps, and pool heating that is to be installed. With an understanding of the complete energy use of the building your accredited thermal assessor will work with you to understand the measures required for the building to be carbon neutral. We see that this will initially include the installation of a suitably sized Solar PV system, though will expand as new technology such as battery storage reduce in price.

Here is a link to the new design of the coming NatHERS certificate, where you can familiarise yourself with how the NatHERS energy rating and new Whole of Home rating will be presented.

Feel free to get in touch to discuss NCC 2022 and what it means for your next building projects to comply with the NCC 2022 energy efficiency provisions.