NCC and Standards
WaterMark and CodeMark: Product Compliance for Imported Building Products
WaterMark and CodeMark are Australian product compliance certification schemes relevant to imported building products. This article explains what each scheme covers, when certification is required, and how to navigate the compliance process for imported products.
This article provides general educational information about WaterMark and CodeMark certification. It does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Builders, developers, and importers should seek advice from a qualified building certifier or compliance specialist.
WaterMark Certification
WaterMark is a mandatory certification scheme for plumbing and drainage products used in Australia. It is administered by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) and is required under the National Construction Code.
WaterMark certification is required for products that: - Are used in plumbing and drainage systems - Could affect the safety, health, or sustainability of the water supply or drainage system
Common products requiring WaterMark certification include: tapware, valves, pipes and fittings, water heaters, backflow prevention devices, and sanitary fixtures.
Imported plumbing products must have WaterMark certification before they can be legally installed in Australian buildings. The certification process involves product testing against relevant Australian Standards and assessment by an accredited certification body.
CodeMark Certification
CodeMark is a voluntary product certification scheme that provides evidence that a building product complies with the National Construction Code. It is administered by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).
CodeMark certification is not mandatory — but it provides a recognised pathway for demonstrating NCC compliance, particularly for products that are not covered by a specific Australian Standard or where compliance is not straightforward.
CodeMark is particularly relevant for: - Innovative products that are not covered by existing standards - Imported products where compliance with Australian requirements needs to be demonstrated - Products used in applications where compliance evidence is required by building certifiers
The compliance process for imported products
For imported building products, the compliance process typically involves: 1. Identifying the applicable Australian Standards and NCC requirements 2. Assessing whether the product meets those requirements (which may involve testing) 3. Obtaining certification (WaterMark, CodeMark, or other) as required 4. Maintaining compliance documentation for use by building certifiers
Building Solution Australia manages this process for products sourced through its supply chain — working with accredited certification bodies and testing laboratories to ensure compliance documentation is in place before products are specified or installed.
Source Note
Based on publicly available information from the ABCB. Does not constitute compliance advice. Refer to abcb.gov.au for authoritative guidance.
Building Solution Australia