As a general user of the National Construction Code (NCC), you will likely only need one particular volume:

  • Volume One for commercial construction;  
  • Volume Two, for residential housing; or
  • Volume Three for plumbing and drainage.

The Deemed-to-Satisfy Solutions within the NCC are the parts of the code you will likely need for your project. 

It’s important to remember however, that while the NCC sets out the legal requirements for construction of a house, building or plumbing and drainage installation, it’s the state or territory legislation that give it legal effect.

State and territory regulation

The NCC is given legal effect through building or plumbing legislation set out by your state or territory government, or other statutory authority. These Acts and Regulations set out the legal framework and administration mechanisms for the NCC, to support the design and construction of buildings and plumbing and drainage systems.

The dates of adoption of the NCC are determined by State and Territory building or plumbing administrations.

Administrative requirements

Administration requirements typically covered in your state or territory legislation include:

  • Plan submission and approval procedures
  • Issue of permits
  • Inspections and audits
  • Provision of evidentiary certificates
  • Issue of certificates
  • Review and enforcement of standards
  • Fees and charges

In some jurisdictions, some of these administrative requirements may be undertaken by your local government.