What is an Intertenancy Wall?

An Intertenancy Wall is a wall that is shared between two or more residents of individual dwellings. The primary purpose of an Intertenancy Wall is to prevent the spread of fire from one dwelling to another. This is also known as a ‘Separating Wall’ as per the NatioInal Construction Code (NCC). 

Town houses, terraces and apartments are often divided by an Intertenancy Wall.  This creates a barrier between two or more adjoining homes that prevents the transmission of sound, temperature and fire between them. They aim to maximise floor space, minimise costs and risks whilst delivering long term value to the homeowners and builders!  Intertenancy Walls are simple to specify, sound rated plasterboard can be used for additional sound suppression between dwellings. 

Why are Intertenancy Walls Important?

Intertenancy Walls are intended to ensure that different tenants of a multi-unit structure are able to maintain privacy. They are sometimes built with additional insulation so that sound from an adjoining unit does not disturb neighbours. They also maintain temperature and act as a fire barrier so that a fire in one unit is contained and prevents it spreading. Since the Building Code of Australia requires a high standard of fire performance from walls and ceilings, fire-rated Intertenancy Walls have been necessary for both compliance measures and to provide adequate fire protection for the occupants of any building.

How are they constructed?

An intertenancy wall in a standard timber framed house is typically built with a double width frame. The extra space creates room for more efficient soundproofing and thermal insulation. A fire barrier is usually placed between the double frame, which is then usually finished with plasterboard on either side. 

Why choose Hebel for your Intertenancy Wall?

·         Hebel’s PowerPanel⁵⁰ Intertenancy Wall Systems use the 50mm thick steel reinforced Hebel AAC panels manufactured in 2.4, 2.55, 2.7, 2.85and 3.0 metre lengths. 

·         Starting at a wall width of just 230mm wide, these Hebel systems maximise floorspace with 70mm separation between stud frames across all systems.

·         Fast and easy to install with simple system components, the systems are easy to fire and acoustic rate to National Construction Code compliance. 

·         The systems don’t require the installation of fire-rated plasterboard between floor levels at joists and in the roof space and there’s minimal onsite cutting and wastage.

Looking to build an Intertenancy Wall? Give us a call on 03 9308 8800 with any queries!