Newsletter to all of our valued clients
Just as a pre-curser, I was just wanting to touch base with you on the up and coming changes to the Building Regulations. The major items of importance to note are:-
- 1st May 2006 saw the introduction of Building Code of Australia 2006 Vol. 1 & 2.
- Many Australian Standards have been revised, some of which include:-
- Glass Code AS1288-2006 (Ensure your glazier / window supplier are up to date), eg. Glass types and thickness has altered, glass balustrade now requires a top rail and mandatory use of marking glass for full height glass where it could be mistaken for doorway or opening.
- Timber Framing Code AS1684 – Parts 2, 3 & 4.
- Wind loading for housing AS4055-2006.
- Energy Rating of domestic work sees a further 12 month extension for the timber floor concession to only achieve a 4 Star and solar hot water service or tank.
On the commercial front:-
- Energy efficiency now affects all non-domestic work. Unlike the energy rating of houses, the process for commercial work is far more complex and will require the services of a mechanical engineer (RBP) to justify the energy required for the function of the building, considering not just building fabric, but also mechanical ventilation and artificial lighting.
Other issues that I wish to draw to your attention are:-
13th June 2006
- Building Regulations 2006 come into operation which replaces the Interim Building Regulations. Some of the changes include:-
- Increase in the cost of standard government charges for building permits.
- More administrative changes to the process of building permits ie. Again, the re-numbering the statutory forms, for example:-
Protection notices were Form 6 & 7’s then became 5 & 6’s 12 months ago, are now 3 & 4’s – don’t ask why! So if you have a file with old forms, replace them now, phone us so we can fax new ones to you or just call into the office.
I will send out a more detailed information sheet after we have dissected the new Building Regulations. Further information is available on www.buildingcommission.com.au but, as always, we are available to take your call if further clarification is required, so please don’t hesitate to call.