StairBuilder DIY Stair Compliance Guide
Important: Stair Builder provides custom stair components based on customer-supplied measurements.
The Stair Designer will prepare a design in line with the NCC; however, the customer is responsible for ensuring the final stair design is fit for purpose.
Key Australian Stair Requirements – Residential Buildings (Class 1 Dwellings)
For most residential stairs in Australia, the National Construction Code (NCC) sets out the following general requirements.
Stair Rise (Step Height)
Minimum riser height: 115 mm
Maximum riser height: 190 mm
Stair Going (Tread Depth)
Minimum going: 240 mm
Maximum going: 355 mm
2R + G must be between 550 mm and 700 mm
Number of Steps
A landing is required after a maximum of 18 risers in one flight.
Winders
Up to 3 consecutive winders may be used instead of a quarter landing (l-shape staircase)
Up to 6 consecutive winders may be used instead of a half landing (U-shape staircase)
Winder goings must be consistent.
Landings
Landings must have a minimum depth of 750 mm.
Open Risers
Openings between treads must not allow a 125 mm sphere to pass through.
Handrails
Handrails are required for the full length of a flight where the change in height is more than 1.0 m.
The minimum handrail height is 865 mm.
Balustrades
Balustrades are required where there is a risk of falling from a stair, landing, or elevated area with a fall of more than 1.0 m.
The minimum balustrade height is 865 mm on stairs and 1000 mm on landings.
Openings in balustrades must not allow a 125 mm sphere to pass through.
Head Height
Minimum head height clearance on a staircase is 2.0m, this is measured vertical from the nosing line to ceiling above.
Slip Resistance
Stairs must meet the minimum slip-resistance rating required under applicable Australian standards.
Before Ordering
Please ensure you:
✅ Measure floor-to-floor heights accurately.✅ Check all dimensions against your approved plans.✅ Confirm requirements with your local building authority or certifier.✅ Verify handrail and balustrade requirements for your project.
Disclaimer
StairBuilder manufactures stair systems to customer-supplied specifications. Building regulations may vary by state, territory, council, building classification, and project type. Customers and installers are responsible for ensuring the final design, installation, and use comply with all applicable codes, standards, permits, approvals, and local authority requirements. If requirements are unclear, StairBuilder recommends consulting a licensed builder, certifier, engineer, or relevant authority.