New NCC22 Regulations Explained: What Every Home Buyer Should Know

25th March 2024

Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends Legal & Contracts Sustainability & Energy Efficiency News & Industry Insights

This article breaks down the three key changes in Victoria's NCC22 regulations – Seven Star Energy Ratings, Livable Housing Requirements and Whole of Home assessments. It explains how these updates impact home design, costs and what buyers need to know to better understand the regulations.

New NCC22 Regulations Explained: What Every Home Buyer Should Know

Thinking of building a new home in Victoria? From 1 May 2024, the updated National Construction Code (NCC) introduces key changes that will affect your design, your budget and even what you can build on your chosen block. In this episode of the Home Building Hub Podcast, Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan break down the three major updates.

Here's a breakdown of what you need to know.

1. Seven Star Energy Rating

Homes in Victoria must now meet a 7 Star NatHERS energy efficiency rating – up from the current 6 Star. This means:

• Higher energy efficiency – lower heating and cooling bills

• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions

• Double glazing required on some windows (but check exactly which ones)

• More insulation throughout the home

• Smaller windows and doors to reduce energy loss

• Orientation matters – north-facing blocks are much harder to work with under these new rules

• Structural changes are more difficult – less flexibility with customising designs

• Prices will rise – expect a notable increase in build costs to meet the new standard

Tip: Some builders may not double glaze all windows (e.g. bathrooms and laundries). Ask specific questions.

2. Livable Housing Requirements

These changes aim to future-proof homes for ageing residents or those with mobility challenges. Key inclusions are:

• Step-free entrance into the home

• Wider doorways and hallways for wheelchair access

• One hobless (step-free) shower

• Circulation space in front of at least one toilet (1200mm x 900mm, clear of doors or fixtures)

• Wall reinforcement for future grab rail installation in the bathroom

Note: Smaller block designs (under 20 squares) may need to reduce bedroom sizes or change configurations to fit these features.

3. Whole of Home Energy Assessment

This part of the code assesses total energy usage across your entire home – not just the structure.

• Considers appliances like dishwashers, dryers, even pools

• Looks at lighting (especially downlights), dual ovens and more

• Requires a solar PV system to offset usage

• Larger homes = higher energy usage = more solar panels needed

It’s a move toward sustainability, but also adds thousands – even tens of thousands – in additional cost, depending on the home size.

Why Act Before 30 April?

If you sign a building contract and pay your deposit before 30 April 2024:

• You can proceed under the current rules

• You can avoid the large cost increases and potential design restrictions

• After this date, your builder must comply with NCC22 and cannot offer the old inclusions or processes

Builders will be audited – they will not risk taking shortcuts or cutting corners.

What You Can Do Now

• Speak to your builder now – confirm timeframes and what’s needed to lock in current pricing

• Understand your block’s orientation – this impacts energy ratings

• Budget for cost increases – especially for solar and insulation

• Ask the right questions – not all builders will treat these requirements the same

Key Takeaways

• NCC22 changes are mandatory from 1 May 2024 in Victoria

• Expect increased build costs and reduced flexibility in design

• Understand how seven star, livable housing and whole of home all tie together

• You must act now to avoid major cost and design impacts

FAQs

Will all windows be double glazed? No. Most builders are more likely to double glaze as required to achieve 7-Star Energy rating.

Will these changes affect two-storey homes too? Yes – even upstairs bathrooms may need hobless showers, despite accessibility concerns.

Is a solar hot water system enough? No. You will also need a PV (photovoltaic) solar panel system to offset general energy use.

Can I still make structural changes to my house plan? Yes, but structural flexibility will be reduced by some builders due to strict compliance requirements.

Can I just pay a deposit to lock it in? No. You must also have a siting (design placed on block), a quote, and proof of progress to qualify under the current code.

Glossary of Terms

• NatHERS – Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme

• PV System – Photovoltaic solar panels used to generate electricity

• NCC – National Construction Code

• Hobless Shower – A shower with no step or raised edge for wheelchair access

• Siting – Birds eye view showing the house design on a specific block of land

Listen to the Full Episode

New NCC22 Regulations Explained in 16 Minutes

About the Home Building Hub Podcast The Home Building Hub podcast, hosted by industry experts Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan, is Australia’s premier resource for new home buyers. With weekly episodes featuring special guests, the podcast provides objective, high-quality insights into the home building process - completely free and without sales pitches. From understanding financing options to navigating the complexities of building a new home, each episode is packed with actionable advice and tips.

Explore more episodes at http://www.homebuildinghub.com.au and join our growing community of informed home buyers.

Disclaimer Whilst we’re all about providing value to you, this article should not be considered as legal or financial advice. It contains general information only and is based on the content discussed during the podcast episode. This information is relevant to the episode’s release date and may not be applicable at the time of reading. Always seek independent professional advice tailored to your personal situation before making any legal or financial decisions.