What the NCC Residential Efficiency Standards Mean for New Homes

Following a comprehensive review, the National Construction Code’s (NCC) standards were updated in 2022, resulting in a host of changes to the requirements for new home builds.

Home builders who are looking to build in Queensland should take note of how these changes will affect the design and considerations of their future homes.

The NCC’s Updated Requirements for New Home Builds

The NCC’s updated requirements cover two main areas for the Modern Homes standards:

• Increased accessibility requirements mandate the inclusion of design features such as step-free entry and wider hallways and doors for increased safety and longevity.
• Raised minimum standard for home energy ratings under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Newly constructed homes must achieve a minimum of 7 stars out of 10.

The adoption of these new standards in Queensland will commence in two phases:

• Accessibility standards will apply from 1 October 2023
• Energy efficiency standards will apply from 1 May 2024 

What is Considered a 7-Star Energy Efficiency Rating?

The standard of 7-star energy rating for new homes is set out by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), which aims to help homeowners build houses that are energy-efficient, comfortable, and sustainable. 

The higher the star rating of a home, the less energy will be required to keep the house at a comfortable temperature using external heating or cooling appliances. This could involve including design features in the home such as:

• Optimal orientation – Positioning the house build to maximise the amount of sun exposure for solar power, while allowing sufficient shade for the house.
• Double or triple glazing for windows – Opt for window glazing options that mitigate heat transfer in and out of the house. 

• Increase zoning within the home – Include more doors to create separated spaces within the home to isolate heating and cooling for individual areas.
• Improved insulation – Extending insulation in the walls, floor, and ceiling. 

• Installation of ceiling fans – Having fans in key parts of the home can provide more comfort and improve ventilation. 

• Natural lighting alternatives – Replacing less efficient downlights with roof windows or skylights.

The Impact of NCC Standards on a New Home Build 

While some may see the impact of the updated standards in terms of potentially higher costs, the changes also mean better benefits for home builders. The increased energy efficiency standards are especially applicable to the warm and wet tropical climate in regions like North Queensland.

Lower household energy costs and consumption

Building a home with higher energy efficiency will undoubtedly result in greater upfront costs, but this is offset by the significantly lower energy costs of the home over time. A naturally energy-efficient home will stay cool and comfortable all year round without the need for air-conditioning, lowering energy consumption and the cost of utility bills. Estimates based on the new energy efficiency requirements place cost savings on energy bills for new homes at an average of $183 every year.

Environmentally sustainable

Homes that consume less energy contribute to Australia’s goal of reducing the human impact on our precious environment. Building a sustainable home that lasts for generations gives homeowners peace of mind that they are doing their part for the environment. 

Year-round comfort

Energy-efficient homes offer a comfortable living environment regardless of seasonality — staying at a pleasant temperature in every climate. In areas like Townsville where temperature can reach into the 40s, being able to relax in a cool home is a luxury that is well worth the investment.

John Munro Builder offers quality new home builds in Townville that are designed in line with the NCC’s updated standards. If you are planning to build a home in Townville, get in touch with our team today to learn more about our residential building services.