The most recent edition of the National Construction Code was published for preview on 1 February 2026, and jurisdictions across Australia were permitted to consider implementing it from 1 May 2026. It contains over 35 new or amended standards that may be crucial to anyone looking to begin a new roofing project. Here’s what’s changed and how that may impact your plans. At Infinite Roofing, we’ve been re-roofing homes and commercial buildings across Brisbane, Ipswich and into New South Wales for over a decade, so here’s what the change actually means for a project in our patch.
Key takeaways
What the National Construction Code (NCC) 2025 is
The NCC provides the necessary building provisions to support safe and effective construction in Australia. It’s published by the Australian Building Codes Board and sets minimum standards for safety, accessibility, and sustainability.
When NCC 2025 Starts In Queensland
The states and territories decide when they will implement new editions of the NCC. Queensland has delayed implementation until 1 May 2027. This is giving Queensland industries time to prepare for the changes. In the meantime, the NCC 2022 will remain in effect.
Queensland does allow voluntary early adoption of NCC 2025 from 1 May 2026, so if you specifically want your new roof built to the newer standards ahead of time, we can do that on request.
Key changes for roofs
The NCC 2025 introduces a number of changes that may affect roofing matters. Here are some new commercial and housing provisions to be aware of.
Roof ventilation
Research and industry feedback show that condensation can contribute a lot to building defects. New condensation management provisions aim to better address moisture concerns in a wider range of climates. For roofing specifically, the NCC 2025 stipulates ventilation requirements based on how insulation is laid out relative to the roof’s pitch.
Water management
Along with condensation mitigation updates, the NCC 2025 focuses on managing issues around water ingress. The new code updates definitions for water management, particularly targeting sub-surface water, which can be an issue with near horizontal surfaces, such as roofs and balconies.
Improved water management amendments aim to increase water resistance in roofing systems, especially for commercial and apartment buildings. Brisbane’s heavy summer downpours make water ingress a real risk on low-pitch metal roofs, box gutters and balconies, which is exactly the flashing and detailing our installers focus on.
Residential and commercial energy efficiency
Commercial energy efficiency changes call for more robust performance solutions for installing systems, such as air conditioning and ventilation. The NCC 2025 also mandates that building approvals cover:
A requirement that gas systems can accommodate future transition arrangements to an electrical capacity.
Adherence to new rules around thermal emittance for roofs.
Certain buildings are mandated to include on-site solar photovoltaic systems to meet sustainability targets.
Changes for residential energy efficiency proposed initially are not going ahead. The provisions set out in NCC 2022 will stay in place. These changes are designed to reduce energy consumption.
Structural reliability and fire safety
The NCC 2025 introduces a new Verification Method for Performance Solutions to strengthen fire safety and structural reliability. The code refers specifically to matters such as carpark fire safety amendments, but also has important implications for the use of roofing materials and re-roofing methods.
Ventilation requirements behind external cladding have also been updated. Those re-roofing-method rules are relevant when an older roof comes off. On pre-1980s Brisbane homes that can mean licensed asbestos roof removal, which we handle safely as part of a full re-roof.
What This Means If You Are Planning A New Roof
The new code won’t take effect in Queensland until 1 May 2027. Any roofing matters you’re handling until then will be covered by the NCC 2022. If you’re planning to get a re-roofing in the future, keep a close eye on the date that the project is going to occur. Work undertaken after 1 May 2027 will be subject to the new code.
How To Keep Your Roof Compliant
Updates to building codes are very technical. It’s important to work with a licensed roofing contractor who is up-to-date with any new requirements. Make sure that the contractor has a QBCC licence and the necessary insurance coverage.
Infinite Roofing is fully QBCC licensed and WorkCover insured, and we back every roof with a lifetime workmanship warranty, so your job is done to whichever edition of the code applies at the time of the work.
Conclusion
The latest NCC volume includes many new requirements for new building projects, including roofing jobs. Updates to energy efficiency requirements and water management are key changes. Make sure to work with qualified contractors who understand which building code applies to your project.
Do you need advice on roofing matters?
Our team is experienced with roofing for residential and commercial buildings. Contact us today for a free quote.
