How do I know if my DPC has failed?

Common signs of DPC failure include: damp patches on interior walls near floor level, peeling paint or wallpaper at the base of walls, a musty smell in rooms, salt deposits (efflorescence) on brickwork, and crumbling mortar joints near ground level. If you notice these signs, get a building inspector to assess whether the DPC needs repair or replacement.

How much does it cost to fix a failed DPC in Australia?

DPC repair or replacement in Australia typically costs $2,000-$10,000+ depending on the method used and the extent of the problem. Chemical injection (the most common repair method) costs around $50-$100 per linear metre. A full DPC replacement requiring excavation is more expensive. Get multiple quotes from licensed waterproofing specialists.

Is DPC required by law in Australian homes?

Yes. The National Construction Code (NCC) requires damp-proofing measures in all new residential buildings. The specific requirements vary depending on the construction type and local conditions, but all new homes must have adequate protection against rising damp. Existing homes built before modern standards may have inadequate or deteriorated DPC.

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Building Elements

Damp Proof Course (DPC)

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By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge

Last reviewed: 1 March 2026 · How we research

Damp Proof Course (DPC) explained in detail

DPC is a barrier in a building's construction designed to prevent the passage of moisture from the ground into the building's interior. These are typically made of plastic, bitumen, or other waterproof materials and placed in the masonry or foundation of a building. The purpose of a DPC is to protect the building from damage caused by rising dampness, which can lead to mould, rot, and other issues.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about damp proof course (dpc)

A Damp Proof Course (DPC) is a horizontal barrier built into the walls of a home, usually at or near ground level, to prevent moisture from the ground rising up through the masonry (known as 'rising damp'). It's typically made from polyethylene sheeting, bituminous felt, or engineered membranes and is a requirement under the National Construction Code for all new Australian homes.

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Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.

National

National Construction Code (NCC)

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Australian Standards (AS / AS-NZS)

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

Housing Industry Association (HIA)

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia (MBA)

Master Builders Australia

National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.

By state & territory

South AustraliaSA

Consumer and Business Services (CBS)

VictoriaVIC

Victorian Building Authority (VBA)

New South WalesNSW

NSW Building Commission (within Department of Customer Service)

QueenslandQLD

Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)

Western AustraliaWA

Building and Energy (within Dept of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety)

TasmaniaTAS

Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)

Australian Capital TerritoryACT

Access Canberra (Construction Occupations Registrar)

Northern TerritoryNT

Building Practitioners Board / NT Worksafe (Building)

Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.