ROOM HEIGHTS

PBDS 2-001-D
The Performance Requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) can be met
using either a Performance Solution (previously known as an Alternative Solution) or a
Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) Solution (complying with the DtS Provisions). The following
demonstrates a performance based design process and should be used in conjunction
with the Development of Performance Solutions Guidance document.

Scenario:

A homeowner wishes to construct an unconventional sloped ceiling in a bedroom of a

Class 1a house. The DtS Provisions require a minimum room height of 2.4 m for at least
two-thirds of the floor area of the bedroom. As the proposed design does not meet this
DtS Provision, the client intends on having a Performance Solution developed to
demonstrate compliance with the relevant NCC Performance Requirement.

What are the design objectives?

Allow for an unconventional sloped ceiling to suit the fixed furniture placement
and aesthetic requirements of the client, being a proportion of the bedroom
having a ceiling height of less than 2.4 m.

Who should be consulted?

The building designer, the client, the builder and the regulatory approval
authority are the stakeholder group for this scenario.

What is the basis for the Performance Solution?

Documented evidence will be used to justify the Performance Solution will demonstrate compliance with the Performance
Requirements.

What evidence is proposed?

Written statement relating to the impact of the design on the intended function of the bedroom
Stakeholder peer review and agreement on the solution
A detailed plan showing the area of the room affected by a reduced ceiling height, room layout, including fixed
furniture placement and circulation routes (determined by door and window locations)

Which DtS Provision is applicable?

Ceiling heights in 3.8.2.2 are required at a height not less than 2.4 m over two-thirds of the floor area of the room.

Which Performance Requirement is applicable?

Where an alternative ceiling height is proposed as a Performance Solution (Alternative Solution) to that described in Part
3.8.2, that proposal must comply with--(a)
Performance Requirement P2.4.2; and
(b)
the relevant Performance Requirements determined in accordance with 1.0.7.
P2.4.2 Room heights
A room or space must be of a height that does not unduly interfere with its intended function
16T

16T

Note: for brevity, the applicable Performance Requirements have been limited. This solution may also impact other
Performance Requirements and must be considered in accordance with 1.0.7.
Disclaimer: Please note that this simplified example is only intended for the purpose of learning how to use the NCC. It is not meant to be used as appropriate solutions in all situations
or in all jurisdictions. The ABCB takes no responsibility for their unintended use in this context.

Which Assessment Methods are the most suitable and where can they be found?

Assessment Methods are listed in 1.0.5 and state that any Assessment Method or combination of them may be used to
determine that a Performance Solution complies with the Performance Requirements. In this scenario, Expert Judgement
will be used as the Assessment Method.
The building designer has gathered the details to prepare an Expert Judgment report demonstrating compliance with
Performance Requirement P2.4.2. In analysing this scenario the following was considered:
Intended function of the room.
Placement of entry door and windows.
The location of the reduced ceiling height zone.
Details of the circulation routes around the room.
Fixed fittings such as a built in wardrobe or desk.
Intended furniture plan including fixed and moveable furniture.
Any limitations to the design and conditions of use.

The Expert Judgement report analysing the details of the Performance Solution was sent out to the stakeholder group as
a peer review. Each stakeholder was given the opportunity to confirm that they believed the Performance Solution met the
Performance Requirement.
Upon confirmation from the stakeholder group that they were satisfied with the Expert Judgement report, a final report
was prepared for submission to the regulatory approval authority.

The final report included:

An overview of the Performance Based Design Brief, outlining:
o The Performance Solution;
o The stakeholders involved; and
o Reference to the relevant NCC Performance Requirements and DtS Provisions.
Documented Evidence showing:
o Intended function of the room;
o Placement of entry door and windows;
o The location of the reduced ceiling height zone;
o Fixed fittings such as a built in wardrobe or desk;
o Intended furniture plan including fixed and moveable furniture; and
o Details of the circulation routes around the room.
Conclusion:
o Confirmation of the Performance Solution through peer review by the stakeholder group; and
o All limitations to the design and conditions of use.

Disclaimer: Please note that this simplified example is only intended for the purpose of learning how to use the NCC. It is not meant to be used as appropriate solutions in all situations
or in all jurisdictions. The ABCB takes no responsibility for their unintended use in this context.