Is Roof Colour Regulated? Here’s What You Should Know Before You Build

If you're planning a new home or a renovation, you may have heard that your choice of roof colour could be subject to more than just personal taste. Across New South Wales, roof colour is part of a bigger conversation about sustainability, thermal performance, and long-term comfort.

And it’s not just a trend—it’s becoming policy in some areas.

Why Roof Colour Matters

Dark roofs absorb a large amount of heat, which can dramatically raise internal temperatures—especially in summer. That not only affects your comfort but increases reliance on cooling systems and raises energy bills. Multiply that across a street or neighbourhood, and you get what planners call the “urban heat island” effect—hotter communities, stressed energy grids, and reduced liveability.

In contrast, lighter roofs reflect more sunlight, helping homes stay cooler and reducing the strain on cooling systems. It’s a simple material choice with serious impact.

That’s why local councils across NSW are updating Development Control Plans (DCPs) to favour—or even require—light or reflective roofing materials. BASIX (the state’s energy compliance tool) already factors in the solar absorptance of roofing materials. If a darker roof is selected, additional insulation may be needed to comply.

While there’s no blanket state law banning dark roofs, councils in both regional and coastal areas are now adopting their own strategies—especially in newer subdivisions or climate-sensitive zones.

What This Means for You

At M2 Haus, we’ve been designing with this in mind for years. For us, roof colour isn’t an afterthought—it’s one of the key elements in crafting a thermally responsive, efficient home.

We understand how solar reflectance, material finish, and thermal mass all interact. And we know how to make light-coloured roofing look refined and architectural. Soft clay greys, chalky off-whites, and textured matte finishes can elevate a contemporary home—not compromise it.

If you're early in the design process, here are a few things I always recommend:

• Think Ahead: Even if your council doesn’t yet restrict dark roofs, it might soon. Choosing a compliant, energy-conscious colour now saves you from redesign headaches later.

• Ask About Solar Absorptance: It’s not just colour—it’s performance. We guide clients through options that meet both design goals and BASIX standards.

• Design for Long-Term Value: Energy performance isn’t just a regulatory box to tick. It’s a feature more buyers are actively seeking. A cooler, more comfortable home is a compelling proposition for the future market.

Our Approach

We don’t wait for policy to set the bar—we aim higher from the start. Whether or not regulation is introduced in your area, we’re already designing to that standard.

A roof should do more than keep out the elements. It’s a critical part of your home’s environmental response—just like orientation, glazing, or insulation. And with the right approach, it can enhance both your comfort and your home's architectural presence.

If you're planning a build in Port Macquarie or the broader Mid North Coast, we’d be happy to help you make informed, future-proofed design decisions—roof and all.