Building waterproofing standards are created to protect your property from its number one enemy – water damage!
Water leaks, whether from external or internal sources, can cause significant property damage. If you are buying or building a new home, you want to make sure your new property meets or exceeds the building codes when it comes to waterproofing.
Waterproofing failure can cause extensive and expensive problems to your property and can be a source of dispute or litigations.
What are the Waterproofing Standards Set by the Building Code of Australia?
The Building Code of Australia has set technical guidelines as standards for design and structure when it comes outlining damp and weatherproofing measures. These codes help promote safety and protection from injury.
Sticking to the codes ensures waterproofing systems are in place to protect your property from water leaks and penetration from wet areas
What is considered a damp or wet area?
Areas in your property that have a water supply are deemed as wet areas. These can include the following:
- Drainage systems that dispose of surface water like bathrooms and some areas in the kitchen.
- Drainage from swimming pools.
- The roof and external walls of a structure where they should prevent water entry.
Why it pays to exceed the building waterproofing standards
In most cases, complying with the minimum waterproofing standards set by the code is not enough!
Often the levels established by the code can only offer minimum protection. Exceeding the required levels of waterproofing like entirely waterproofing wet walls instead of meeting the basic requirements can provide increased security.
Investing a little extra during the initial installation can pay big dividends in the longer term.
What’s more, the peace of mind you get from knowing your property is safe from water damage is priceless.