Increase in H1 requirements from 1 May 2023

Ask about our H1 report service, where we review your current plans and find the most affordable way to insulate your property. We've helped some of our clients save thousands of dollars by suggesting better solutions than what was originally planned. For a small fee, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars that could be used to improve other parts of your home. call 0800 857 232.

The changes announced by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in November 2021 are significant steps toward improving the energy efficiency and comfort of residential and commercial buildings in New Zealand. Here’s a summary of the key changes:

  • Increased Climate Zones: The expansion of climate zones from three to six demonstrates a more tailored approach to insulation requirements, recognizing the diverse climate conditions across New Zealand. This adjustment ensures that insulation standards are better suited to specific regions, maximizing their effectiveness.
  • Enhanced Insulation Requirements: The increased insulation requirements for roofs, walls, floors, windows, doors, and skylights will contribute to better thermal performance in buildings. This means that homes and commercial spaces will be better insulated against heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs.
  • New Compliance Pathway for HVAC Systems: The introduction of a new compliance pathway for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in commercial buildings is a welcome addition. It encourages the use of energy-efficient HVAC systems, which can further reduce energy consumption and operational costs in commercial properties.
  • Improved Window and Door Insulation: The forthcoming increase in insulation requirements for windows and doors in housing is a key component of these changes. It will ensure that these crucial building components meet higher performance standards, enhancing both energy efficiency and indoor comfort. The phased implementation allows for a transition period to meet these standards.
  • Carbon Savings: The overarching goal of these changes is to reduce the energy required to heat residential homes by approximately 40%. Achieving this target will not only make homes warmer and more comfortable but also generate significant carbon savings, contributing to New Zealand's sustainability goals.

These changes represent a proactive approach to addressing energy efficiency and sustainability in the construction and housing sectors. They align with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and create healthier, more comfortable living and working spaces for New Zealanders. Staying informed about these updates and ensuring compliance with the new standards will be essential for builders, contractors, and property owners alike.

Ceiling construction R-values have increased significantly from R2.9 or R3.2 to R6.6 across all six new climate zones

Rodney Insulation can supply & install the right solution to meet all your H1 Needs call 0800 857 232.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR ALL HOUSING AND
SMALL BUILDINGS (UNDER 300M2)

  • There are new and more stringent requirements for roof, wall, and underfloor insulation in the new edition of H1/AS1 and H1/VM1 for housing and small buildings. These changes, which aim to reduce the energy needed for heating residential homes by approximately 40% compared to previous requirements, are a significant step toward improving energy efficiency and comfort in buildings.
  • The new minimum thermal resistance values (R-values) are a crucial aspect of these changes. They play a vital role in determining the effectiveness of insulation in resisting heat flow, which is essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and reducing the need for heating.
  • Having these updated R-values in the schedule method is a practical way to ensure that insulation in residential homes and small buildings meets the required standards. It's essential for builders, contractors, and property owners to be aware of and adhere to these new values when planning and implementing insulation in construction or renovation projects.
  • These changes not only benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs but also contribute to environmental sustainability by lowering carbon emissions associated with heating. As energy efficiency continues to be a priority in building design and construction, these updated insulation requirements are a positive step forward in creating more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.