2021 Building Code Update – H1 Changes

Do you really know what has and is changing in the building code?

In 2023 New Zealand is heading towards healthier homes to live in. Back in November 2022 we saw the introduction of these changes – double glazing now becoming Low E Argon filled, helping reduce the amount of heat in the summer and cold in the winter entering the home.

From the 1^st May 2023, we saw the insulation standards change. This change means that insulation in the ceiling and underfloor will almost double from previous standards. This will affect the design of all housing altering the roof designs to accommodate more insulation.

From November 2023, all aluminum exterior joinery will need to be thermally broken, which will stop the condensation that normally tracks through the one-piece aluminum.

This will become the new normal throughout New Zealand and will increase the cost of the already high construction costs. To stall this price increase we have pre-consented several of our models before these changes came into effect on the 1st May. We have a limited supply of these standard models pre-consented. We feel our buildings already provide a healthy home due to our high-quality construction method, and the materials we use. These plans are limited in number and will expire over time therefore if you are interested in saving costs ask us which models are still available under the old H1 standards.

We are currently getting our standard models revised to meet the future H1 standards that come into effect in November 2023. As soon as we have received these new plans, we will update our prices accordingly.

The best time to build was yesterday but the next best time to build is today, so get in touch with our team if you wish to build with Hawke’s Bay Homes.