What the 2026 NSW Construction Code Updates Mean for Your Custom Build

What’s Changed in 2026: A Quick Overview

As of 2026, NSW builders and designers must work within a framework of stricter requirements around:

1. Energy Efficiency & Thermal Performance (NCC 2025 rollout)

   • Updated 7-star NatHERS minimum remains in place

   • New material standards for glazing, insulation, and sealing

   • More pressure on achieving compliance through passive design rather than afterthoughts

2. Condensation Management

   • Mandatory vapour barriers in more climate zones

   • Increased attention to ventilation and indoor air quality

   • Builders must document moisture risk controls, especially important with high-performance glazing

3. Accessibility in Class 1a Dwellings

   • Provisions for wider doorways, step-free thresholds, and reinforced bathroom walls now standard for many new builds

   • Particularly relevant for aging-in-place clients and long-term home value

4. BASIX Adjustments for NSW

   • Higher targets for water and energy reduction

   • More emphasis on performance modelling over tick-box compliance

   • Solar, rainwater harvesting, and electric hot water systems now more commonly required

5. Documentation & Liability

   • Pressure from Class 2 reforms is flowing into detached residential builds

   • Better documentation, traceability, and site supervision now expected even for non-Class 2 work

   • Builders must show how they met compliance, not just that they did

What It Means for Homeowners

You’ll notice:

• Design stage matters more than ever — floorplans, window placement, and roof design affect compliance

• Selections can’t always be last minute — your glazing, insulation, and lighting choices must meet code

• More consultants may be needed early — e.g. energy assessors, certifiers, or engineers during concept phase

• There may be longer approval lead times — as councils and certifiers work through more complex reports

• You need a builder who’s not just compliant but proactive

How LPC Projects Handles This for You

Here’s how we support you:

• We review your design with energy and performance in mind before it goes to final plan

• We advise on materials and inclusions that meet (or exceed) compliance while looking amazing

• We prepare documentation that keeps certifiers happy and protects you post-handover

NSW homes built in 2026 are stronger, safer, and more efficient than ever, only if your builder knows what’s changed.

At LPC Projects, we stay up to date so your build isn’t just beautiful, it’s compliant.