The National Construction Code (NCC) is a set of requirements for the design and construction of buildings in Australia. It also applies to plumbing and drainage work. It sets the minimum required level for the safety, health, amenity, accessibility and sustainability of certain buildings.
The NCC applies to new building work, new plumbing and drainage work on new or existing services and in some cases, it may apply to some structures associated with buildings. Aspects of construction such as gas fitting and electrical are not covered by the National Construction Code.
The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) produces and maintains the National Construction Code on behalf of the Australian Government and each state and territory government.
On 1st October 2022, the ABCB released NCC 2022 to replace NCC 2019. While NCC 2022 is in effect, a transitional period to 1st May 2023 has been put in place. After this date NCC 2022 will be mandatory.
What’s the difference between NCC 2019 and NCC 2022?
While NCC 2019 and NCC 2022 both ensure compliance, some changes have been made to certain aspects of design and construction in NCC 2022.
Some of the main updates in NCC 2022 include:
- New requirements for liveable housing
- New requirements for lead-free plumbing products
- Extra requirements for early childcare centres
- Amendments to fire safety of external walls
- Waterproofing
- Weatherproofing
- Falls for floor waste
- Number of exits
- Quantification for water efficiency, sanitary plumbing and drainage pipe sizing, heated water temperature delivery and drinking water pressure limits
- Plumbing
- Energy efficiency and condensation
How will the change to the National Construction Code affect your project?
Any new projects taken on by Lateral Building Design will be designed in accordance with the new regulations in NCC 2022. If we are currently partway through your project, then we will determine whether we use the transition period so we can continue to utilise NCC 2019.
The team at Lateral Building Design ensure they are always well informed of the changes within the building industry and will work on your project in accordance with current regulations and guidelines. If you have any questions give us a call on 9729 4973.
