New H1 compliance document published

The Department has published a new edition of the Building Code Clause H1 Compliance Document. It reflects the energy efficiency improvements announced by Ministers in May.

New houses and major extensions to existing houses will need to use about 30% less heating energy to achieve healthy indoor temperatures. The required R-values for thermal insulation in all types of houses will increase.

The changes will be phased in gradually to allow the industry to adapt. In the South Island and the Central Plateau of the North Island, the new Compliance Document (and the corresponding Building Code Clause change) will become effective on 31 October 2007. Lower North Island will follow on 30 June 2008, and Auckland and areas further north on 30 September 2008.

Commercial lighting in new and refitted buildings will also need to be more energy-efficient. These changes will become effective on 31 October 2007

Copies of the new Compliance Document and the amended Code Clause can be obtained on the Department's website or by calling 0800 242 243.