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Moisture management is a critical aspect of construction that often goes unnoticed until problems arise. In the building industry, effectively managing moisture is essential not only for the longevity and structural integrity of a building but also to avoid potential legal ramifications.  NCC 2022 now mentions mould which creates legal liability for its existence.

Mould Prevention

Poor management of excess moisture can lead to the growth of mould, which can jeopardise the health of occupants and compromise a building’s structural integrity.  Mould spores can lead to various health issues, and repairing the damage is both costly and time-consuming.  It’s important to understand that it doesn’t matter how wet buildings get, they just have to be able to dry out quickly enough that mould does not take hold.

Proactive moisture management strategies include:

1. Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation, particularly in wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries and kitchens, will lower the chances of moisture build up and mould
2. Effective Drainage: Ensuring that rainwater is effectively channelled away from the building and maintaining proper grading is crucial.
3. Membranes: Installing the correct membrane system for your climate will create systems that appropriately deal with excess moisture in unwanted places, e.g. allow hot humid air to escape or stop it getting in.
4. Quality Insulation: Well-installed insulation helps regulate temperature and reduces the risk of condensation by reducing thermal bridging that creates cold spots
5. Inspections: Inspections during and after construction can identify potential moisture issues before they become major problems.

Legal Implications

The latest iteration of the National Construction Code (2022) has made the growth of mould a legal matter (see ABCB website for implementation dates in your state).

The NCC 2022 Volumes 1 and 2 Performance Requirements F8P1 and H4P7 for Class 1, 2 and 4 states “Risks associated with water vapour and condensation must be managed to minimize their impact on the health of occupants.”

Under Part F8 Condensation Management, Volume 2, membrane requirements have been stipulated in climate zones 4 – 8 or alternatively, a mould index that should not exceed 3 (in a range of 1 to 6).

This is still in its early days in Australia, however design and construction methodologies that endanger the health of the occupants are now on the radar.

Preventing moisture-related problems is not just about protecting the physical structure but also about safeguarding the well-being of those who live or work within. It’s so important for builders to adopt moisture management strategies not only to ensure the longevity of a building but also to mitigate the risk of legal repercussions, saving time, money, and reputation in the long run.

Pro Clima Australia Study Road Show

What is the Australia Study?  This is a document that outlines the problems and also the solutions around moisture management and risk mitigation in Australia.  If you’re an architect or builder and you want to know more about this incredibly important publication, DON’T MISS the launch of the Pro Clima Australia Study in Adelaide on May 30th.  – Register here –> Pro Clima Australia Study Road Show – ADELAIDE.

Download your copy of the Australia Study by clicking on the image to the right.

See you there!

Jess Allen

Technical Manager, Climasure