H1

H1 insulation requirements

The H1 insulation requirements for roof, wall and underfloor insulation in housing and small buildings, and what they mean for your build.

Ask about our H1 report service

We review your current plans and find the most affordable way to insulate your property. For a small fee you could save hundreds or even thousands that can go into other parts of your home.

R6.6Ceiling R value now required across all six climate zones, up from R2.9 or R3.2
3 to 6Climate zones, so requirements are matched to the conditions in each region
40%The target reduction in energy needed to heat new homes
Building Code changes

The key H1 insulation requirements

The changes announced by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in November 2021 are significant steps toward warmer, more energy efficient buildings in New Zealand.

More climate zones

Climate zones expanded from three to six, so insulation requirements are better matched to each region.

Higher insulation requirements

Increased requirements for roofs, walls, floors, windows, doors and skylights, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

New pathway for HVAC systems

A new compliance pathway for heating, ventilating and air conditioning in commercial buildings, encouraging energy efficient systems.

Better windows and doors

Higher performance standards for windows and doors in housing, phased in with a transition period.

Carbon savings

The goal is to reduce the energy required to heat homes by around 40 percent, generating significant carbon savings.

Small buildings under 300m2

New and more stringent roof, wall and underfloor requirements in the current H1/AS1 and H1/VM1.

New Zealand Building Code climate zones
The six Building Code climate zones by territorial authority
Climate zones

Six zones, matched to the region

The H1 changes split New Zealand into six climate zones. Rodney, Auckland and Northland sit in climate zone 1, the warmest, but ceiling requirements are now R6.6 in every zone.

Your building consent will state which zone the site is in and the R values the build must meet. Send us your plans and we will price to them.

Energy efficiency for housing and small buildings

There are new and more stringent requirements for roof, wall and underfloor insulation in the current H1/AS1 and H1/VM1 for buildings under 300m2. Ceiling construction R values have increased from R2.9 or R3.2 to R6.6 across all six climate zones.

The minimum thermal resistance values determine how effectively insulation resists heat flow, which keeps indoor temperatures comfortable and reduces the need for heating. Builders, contractors and property owners need to know them when planning a build or a renovation.

Rodney Insulation can supply and install the right solution to meet your H1 requirements. Call 0800 857 232.

Climate zones and residential construction R values
Minimum construction R values by climate zone

Building this year?

Ask about our H1 report service and send through your plans.

Call 0800 857 232
Insulation batts fitted between wall studs