By Padraig Healy, Credwell Director of Sustainability
The time has come again for the update of the NCC. With that comes the wide-ranging changes expected since revision cycles changed to every four years. In respect to Section J, the changes are not as comprehensive compared to other sections of the NCC/BCA.
This public draft is not mandatory yet, but it gives an insight into what is to come.
The intent of this version was focused highly on readability and untangling the sometimes seemingly (if you’re not accustomed to) contradictory clauses that lie within.
If you don’t have the time (who does) to read through the building code regulations (properly) and you want to get a quick update on the proposed changes in bullet point fashion, please read on.
The proposed changes are as follows:
Wording
The words have changed. Section J still refers to Part J1 to Part J8 however the words/terminology or terms for the clauses have changed..just when I had explained to everyone what a JV3 was…the new word for a JV3 is wait…J1V3.
Objective
ABCB has now included simple objectives to each section of the NCC/BCA. This objective for Section J is to…reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Ring me if you want a chat about the intricacies of GHG Emissions.
Performance Based Design Brief
Although this is not new (Added in NCC 2019 amdt 1) like all Performance Solutions in the NCC/BCA and therefore by extension Verification Methods such as J1V3 there will be a need for a Performance based Design Brief whereby all stakeholders involved in the design will require to be aware of the intent/scope and technical basis of the J1V3.
Technical
ABCB have clarified that the Solar Admittance façade calculation is determined using the external façade wall-glazing only and does not include any internal façade area.
Metering
ABCD has also clarified that any individual SOU’s over 500m2 do not need to sub-meter A/C, lift(s), hot water, power etc.
Material Properties
ABCB has re-inserted the DTS construction/material properties that went missing in NCC 2019. For example, the R-value for a reflective airspace in a wall is now referenced again in NCC/BCA 2022 (no jumping between BCA’s for reference anymore).
For more information on a J1V3 or any other area of sustainable building regulation please contact Credwell on 02 9281 8555 or email info@credwell.com.au