Additional Occupancy code values for Queenslander-style residential buildings

[unnithan9]

This is a request for an additional Occupancy code value for Queenslander-style residential buildings. The Queenslander is a building typology with a high concentration in Australia (Queensland).

Reason for Change
To support accurate representation and modeling of Queenslander-style buildings, which have unique risk characteristics and operational requirements compared with other residential building types. Their specific design features, particularly elevated floor levels and the use of underfloor space, create a distinct vulnerability profile. This typology therefore requires dedicated modeling criteria to capture its structural and risk characteristics appropriately.

OED_Queenslander_request.pdf

[benhayes21]

Thanks for the detailed request and the supporting PDF. The unique vulnerability profile of Queenslander buildings is well-understood and we appreciate the case being made.

Before accepting a new occupancy code, we need to assess whether the existing spec can already serve this requirement. Occupancy codes in OED describe the use-type of a property (residential, commercial, industrial etc.) rather than its structural form — structural characteristics are typically captured through fields such as Construction, NumberOfStoreys, YearBuilt, and FloorArea. Our question is whether the combination of an existing residential occupancy code with appropriate structural field values is sufficient for modelling purposes, or whether there is a genuine gap that only a dedicated occupancy code can fill.

We will review this with the OED Steering Group and come back with a decision. If the consensus is that the structural fields are insufficient to distinguish the Queenslander vulnerability profile in practice, we would be happy to add the code in a future minor release.