Consultation Impact Analysis: Condensation mitigation measures

Overview

About the consultation

Condensation issues in buildings can lead to excessive moisture and mould growth, which can cause adverse health outcomes and building degradation.

The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) has been undertaking further work on provisions to mitigate condensation risks. This work builds upon the condensation mitigation provisions included in the 2019 and 2022 editions of the National Construction Code (NCC). The proposed technical changes are in Part F8 (Volume One) and Part 10.8 (ABCB Housing Provisions) of the NCC Public Comment Draft. These changes impact residential and residential-like buildings (Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and 9c buildings). The proposed changes include cavity-dependent vapour permeance requirements for external walls and expanded roof ventilation requirements to better align with practical design and construction practices in Australia.

The ABCB engaged NCEconomics to conduct an impact analysis to evaluate the regulatory implications of the proposed provisions. NCEconomics’ report includes a cost-benefit analysis across all NCC climate zones, as well as break-even analysis and sensitivity analysis.

Why your views matter

The purpose of this consultation is to seek your feedback on the consultation impact analysis undertaken on the proposed condensation mitigation measures. The views of stakeholders are fundamental to ensuring the impact analysis is based on the best available information. Questions have been included to guide your responses on specific matters where more information would be particularly helpful in developing the final impact analysis report.

Providing comment

This consultation is open for responses until 11:59PM AEST Monday 1 July 2024. In line with the ABCB’s procedures for undertaking public consultation, comment will only be accepted through the ABCB’s online Consultation Hub.

What happens next

The ABCB will consider, in detail, all responses received from stakeholders.

Responses to this consultation will inform the development of the final report.