NCC guides for builders and trades

Plain-English notes on common NCC rules for houses, with state differences. Standards are cited and explained in our own words, not reproduced. Always check your approved plans and confirm details with your certifier.

• Wet-area waterproofing: what the NCC asks for

  Shower walls to 1800 mm, floor falls of 1:80 to 1:50, hobs, step-downs and hobless showers. Plain-English NCC wet-area rules and how the states differ.

• Balustrades and stairs: the NCC numbers that matter

  When a balustrade is needed, 1 m and 865 mm heights, the 125 mm gap rule, riser and going limits, landings and handrails. NCC rules for Class 1 homes.

• Smoke alarms: NCC rules for new work, state rules for existing homes

  Where smoke alarms go, mains power and interconnection under the NCC, plus state rules for sale, rentals and older homes in WA, NSW, QLD, SA and VIC.

• Roof drainage: gutters, downpipes and overflow

  Eaves gutter falls, bracket spacing, downpipe limits, valley gutters, overflow measures and when box gutters need AS/NZS 3500.3. NCC rules plus state notes.

• Brickwork: DPCs, flashings, weep holes and ties

  DPC heights, sill and head flashings, weep hole spacing, wall tie duty and spacing, cavities and articulation joints. NCC masonry rules with state notes.