Housing industry insights
Advocacy & policy
News & inspiration
Support & guidance
Member perks
Industry insurance
For your business
Apprentices
Building it right
Building materials & products
Managing your business
Managing your safety
Building your business
Other subjects
A rewarding career
Study with us
A job in the industry
Grow with us
Our podcasts
Our initiatives
Get involved
Awards
Awards winners
Industry events
Most popular products
Top categories
For your business
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location {{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationEnergy efficiency changes for houses
While the National Construction Code (NCC) was updated last year, the energy efficiency changes were delayed for 12 month to allow industry further time to adjust and prepare. The transition period ends 1 May so all building applications made after 1 May 2020 will need to be in line with the revised provisions.
What are the changes?
For Class 1 buildings there are two main changes:
- the verification using reference building method now has more prescriptive rules for using the method and for what computer modelling programs can be used
- A NatHERS 6 star assessment now also needs to meet separate heating and cooling load limits (in all states apart from NSW and WA).
The changes also include more prescriptive building sealing provisions to address condensation and a new optional compliance method to using a ‘blower door test method’.
What about apartments?
For Class 2 apartment buildings (and commercial buildings) the changes are far reaching with substantial stringency increases and new methodologies for assessing a ‘window to wall’ ratio, assessing building fabric and assessing common use areas and mixed use areas of apartment buildings and their services.
How can I learn more?
HIA is delivering seminars on the changes to provide further details and highlight practical ways to meet the new requirements.
Members and non-members are encouraged to register to attend these seminars, so keep an eye out.
It is worth noting that the changes apply differently in each states, so it is important you check how the changes apply in your state.
Find the latest expert advice, guides and much more!
Was this page helpful?
The above is intended to provide general information in summary form. The content does not constitute specific advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal advice should be sought by members and customers with respect to particular matters before taking action.
Member and guest login
Enter your email and password to access secured content, members only resources and discount prices.
Did you become a member online? If not, you will need to activate your account to login.
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
Forgotten password
Need some help?
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
If the email address you have entered is registered, you will receive an email with further instructions.
Become part of the HIA community
Enables quick and easy registration for future events or learning and grants access to expert advice and valuable resources.
Create a guest account
Enter your details below and create a login
Send me exclusive tips, early access to new launches, and special offers. I can change my mind at any time.
By clicking Get started now you agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy.