Understanding the 2025 National Construction Code Updates in WA
The Australian Building Codes Board, in collaboration with the Western Australian Government, has announced updates to the National Construction Code (NCC), set to take effect on May 1, 2025.
These changes will impact all new homes, apartments, and renovations, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and improve thermal comfort for homeowners across WA.
Key Changes in the NCC 2025
Condensation Management Updates
For the third time since NCC 2019, updates to condensation management have been introduced, affecting material choices, costs, and design considerations.
Energy Efficiency Changes for Houses
To further improve sustainability, new houses must meet stricter energy efficiency requirements, including:
- Concessions for some patios and verandahs from fire-separation requirements
- Cyclonic wind standards between Greenhead and Kalbarri
- Changing the requirements for thermal breaks of steel framing, using them where metal battens are installed
- Plumbing updates, including extending the length of pipework
What This Means for Plunkett Homes’ Homes
To align with these updates, Plunkett Homes’ home designs and inclusions will be upgraded to meet the new Energy Efficiency Provisions. Standard features will now include:
- 3kW solar PV system with single phase inverter
- Full cavity insulation
- Sunergy Low-E glazing – where applicable
- Gas instantaneous hot water unit
Why These Changes Matter
The primary goal of these updates is to improve the energy efficiency and thermal performance of homes, leading to:
- Better thermal comfort – homes will be designed to maintain temperature more efficiently, reducing reliance on heating and cooling.
- Lower energy consumption – homes will integrate improved systems for heating, cooling, and hot water, minimising energy use.
Will These Changes Impact Pricing?
The adoption of higher-efficiency materials and systems will inevitably increase initial build costs. However, these enhancements will lead to long-term savings by making homes more cost-effective to operate and reducing overall energy consumption. Additionally, these changes align with broader sustainability goals to lower carbon footprints.
Key Timelines & What Homeowners Need to Know
- As of April 1st 2025 – all Preliminary Works Contracts signed with Plunkett Homes must comply with the new Energy Efficiency Provisions.
- As of May 1, 2025 – all building licence applications must adhere to the NCC 2025 requirements.
- If your land titles after February 1, 2025, your build must comply with the new regulations, and potential additional costs may apply.