Description

Following recent enquiries, it is timely to consider the Building Code requirements for natural light. As the density of our housing increases, we may need to look to other options, such as skylights, to provide natural light and a connection with outside.

NZBC Clause G7 Natural light objective G7.1 aims to ‘safeguard people from illness or loss of amenity due to isolation from natural light and the outside environment’. G7.2 goes on to state that ‘habitable spaces shall provide adequate openings for natural light and for a visual awareness of the outside environment’.

Performance provisions also require achievement of minimum illuminance levels and location of openings in ‘suitable locations’.

Scope

This article includes:

• Acceptable Solution requirements
• Skylights as an option
• Skylights not an option in G7
• Some issues with current requirements
• Windows can be a disadvantage
• Modern roof windows have many advantages
• Visual awareness can be difficult
• MBIE reviewing clause G7