Building Controls Update
Building Controls Update (BC Update) is a periodic email news service offered by the Ministry (formerly Department of Building and Housing).
BC Update
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What sort of publication it is: Periodic email news bulletin
Who it's for: People in the building industry
What it contains: Information and news about New Zealand's building controls. The main topics it covers are:
- news about building controls
- notice of consultation
- updates to the Building Code and Compliance Documents
- new publications
How much it costs: Free
How to get it:
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No. 142: Updated requirements for masonry veneer wall cladding in NZS 4229:2013-Appendix E
26 April 2013: Read about the updated requirements for masonry-veneer wall cladding published in the latest version of NZS 4229:2013 and the intended compliance route for concrete masonry buildings.
No. 141: Fire Safety transition period ends 9 April 2013
The Ministry introduced the Building Code Clauses C1-C6 Protection from Fire and the associated acceptable solutions and verification methods a year ago, on 10 April 2012.
Up until now, a transition period has been in effect where the old Building Code Fire Safety Clauses C1-C4 still applied, and the associated acceptable solution could still be used.
This transition period ends on 9 April 2013.
No. 140: Protection from fire: Errata to supporting documents
26 March 2013: A number of errors and omissions have been identified since the supporting documents were published. We’ve now published two errata:
- Errata No. 1 to each of the Acceptable Solutions and C/VM1
- Errata No. 2 to the Verification Method C/VM2.
We’ve also published an amendment to the Commentary to the Acceptable Solutions.
No. 139: Protection from Fire – Frequently asked questions
12 February 2013: We held a series of workshops about these changes nationwide in 2012. At these workshops many similar questions arose about the changes to Protection from Fire.
You can read the answers to these questions below.
No. 138: Updated Guidance: Repairing and rebuilding houses affected by the Canterbury earthquakes
31 January 2013: We’ve republished this guidance in a format that’s easier to use and update. The guidance reflects new knowledge and options which will help the Canterbury rebuild.
No. 137: Fire Design: A worked example for Verification Method C/VM2
30 January 2013: If you’re a designer, a compliance reviewer, or otherwise interested in fire design, read the newly published Appendix B of the Commentary for Verification Method C/VM2.
No. 136: Assessing the liquefaction risk for land developments in Canterbury
28 September 2012: Guidelines for investigating and assessing subdivisions on flat land in Canterbury have been revised by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s engineering advisory group.
No. 135: New guidance: Transitional arrangements for internal surface finish requirements for Protection from Fire
6 September 2012: New guidance explains how to comply with the new test methods for verifying internal surface finishes specified in the revised Building Code clauses C1-C6, Protection from Fire (2012).
No. 134. HERA seminars about structural welding
23 July 2012: In response to learnings from the September 2010 collapse of the Stadium Southland roof during a snowstorm, HERA is running a series of one-day seminars about structural welding (with Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment support).
No. 133. Release of Practice Advisory 14: Long Span Steel Roof Trusses and Southland Stadium investigation reports
13 June 2012: The Department of Building and Housing (now part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment) has released a Practice Advisory in response to concerns about the collapse on 18 September 2010 of the Stadium Southland roof in Invercargill during a snow storm and provides guidance for owners, territorial authorities and practising structural engineers.
No132. Gazette notice updated for fire design review
1 June 2012: Read the latest BC Update clarifying when a design must be submitted to the Fire Service Commission
No. 131: Building Code documents C1-C6 Protection from Fire, F7 Warning Systems and F8 Signs available now
14 May 2012: If you are a designer, qualified fire design engineer or building official these changes affect you. Find out how to get print or e-copies of these updated documents.
No. 130: New guidance for repairing and rebuilding foundations in TC3 areas of Canterbury released
27 April 2012: The guidance provides information and criteria that will help engineers, building control officials and insurance assessors determine if foundations can be repaired or need to be replaced, and provides options for repair and replacement.
No. 129: Changes to Building Code documents Protection from Fire (C), Warning Systems (F7) and Signs (F8)
10 April 2012: View the latest changes to the Building Code documents Protection from Fire, Warning Systems and Signs. These changes become effective 10 April 2012.
There is a 12 month transition period for Protection from Fire and Warning Systems and a 3 month transition for Signs.
No. 128: End of transition period for Structure and External Moisture Building Code documents
10 February 2012: From 1 February 2012, only the latest versions of the Structure (B1) and External Moisture (E2) documents can be used. These incorporate changes introduced on 1 August 2011. The transition period for the Structure (B1) and External Moisture (E2) documents ended on 31 January 2012
No. 127: P21(2010) Wall bracing test and evaluation procedure
10 February 2012: From 1 February 2012 all users of the Acceptable Solution B1/AS1 document must follow the latest version (Amendment 11). This version references NZS 3604:2011.
All designs to NZS 3604:2011 must use wall bracing unit ratings determined in accordance with the latest BRANZ technical paper P21 (2010). This BC Update explains how to achieve this.
No. 126: Updated guidance for the repair and reconstruction of homes in Canterbury published
9 December 2011: The Department has published updated guidance on the repair and reconstruction of houses in earthquake-affected areas of Canterbury. It includes information for the repair and reconstruction of homes, including foundations, in green zone technical categories 1 and 2 (TC1 and TC2).
No. 125: Guidance on Barrier Design published
22 November 2011: Guidance on Barrier Design has been published by the Department. It covers a range of materials now being used. The Acceptable Solution for timber barriers, B1/AS2, can be used as an Acceptable Solution up to and including 31 January 2012, after which it will be withdrawn.
No. 124: Confirmation of 19 May 2011 changes to seismicity and foundation details for Canterbury
17 November 2011: The Chief Executive of the Department of Building and Housing has confirmed the urgent changes made to the Building Code’s supporting documents for structure on 19 May.
The changes were made to reflect an increase in the seismic risk for Canterbury and to require stronger foundations for buildings in this region.
No.123: Product Certificate issued to MCL Stucco Rite
25 October 2011: Auckland-based company Mineral Coatings Ltd has gained a product certificate for its MCL Stucco Rite. That means building consent authorities must accept this system as Building Code compliant when installed and used as specified.
No.122: Updated references to Standards cited in the Verification Methods and Acceptable Solutions
11 October 2011: The Department of Building and Housing has updated references to Standards cited in the Acceptable Solutions, Verification Methods and the Compliance Schedule Handbook, to take account of recent changes to Standards.
No. 121: Consultation on changes to seismicity and foundation details for Canterbury
10 October 2011: The Department is consulting on the urgent changes made on 19 May 2011 for the Canterbury earthquake region to the supporting documents for Structure (B1). The Building Act requires that consultation take place within six months of any urgent changes. The changes increased the seismic hazard factor for Canterbury and required stronger foundations for buildings in that region.
No. 120: Release of Practice Advisory on Egress Stairs: checks needed for some
30 September 2011: The Department of Building and Housing has released today a Practice Advisory to alert practising structural engineers assessing existing multi-storey buildings throughout New Zealand about issues relating to safety of stairs.
No. 119: New guidance for Documenting Fire Safety Designs
28 September 2011: The Department and IPENZ have jointly published guidance about how fire design should be communicated and documented, including providing evidence of design methodology.
No. 118: Guidance on Building Code compliance for retrofitting insulation in external walls
30 August 2011: The Department has published a useful guide on Building Code requirements for retrofitting insulation in external walls.
No. 117: Two new guidance documents supporting changes to Building Code for Structure (B1)
22 August 2011: The Department has produced guidance documents.
No. 116: Changes to Structure and External Moisture Building Code documents
1 August 2011: Changes to key Building Code documents for Structure and External Moisture take effect today, 1 August 2011. The changes will affect the way foundations are laid, how weathertightness is achieved and building structure is designed and constructed.
No. 115: Consultation to update references to 60 cited Standards
23 June 2011: The Department of Building and Housing is consulting on proposed changes to update references to Standards cited in the Acceptable Solutions, Verification Methods and the Compliance Schedule Handbook, to take account of recent changes to Standards. We need your input.
No. 114: Immediate changes to sesimicity and foundation details for Christchurch
19 May 2011: Immediate changes to Acceptable Solutions and a Verification Method will increase the seismic hazard factor for Canterbury and require stronger foundations for buildings.
No. 113: Simplification of Timber Treatment
14 March 2011: New requirements for timber treatment will come into effect on 4 April 2011, through an amendment to the Acceptable Solution for Code Clause B2 Durability.
No. 112: Guidance on house repairs and reconstruction following the Canterbury earthquake
20 November 2010: The Department has issued a guidance document to assist the repair and rebuild of houses in land-damaged areas of Canterbury. The document was officially released by the Minister for Building and Construction on Monday 20 December.
No. 111 - Proposed changes to Building Code documents
29 November 2010: The Department is consulting on proposed changes to documents that the majority of designers and builders use day-to-day, and is asking for submissions. There are also proposals dealing with steel-framed and concrete buildings.
No. 110 - Only a month to go for consultation on Protection from Fire, Warning Systems, Protection from Noise, Signs and Medium-Density Housing
28 October 2010: Consultation is well underway on proposed changes to the Building Code and related documents.
No. 109 - Consultation on Protection from Fire, Warning Systems, Protection from Noise, Signs and Medium-Density Housing
7 September 2010: The Department is calling for submission for proposed changes to...
No. 108 - Consultation on Timber Treatment
7 September 2007: The Department of Building and Housing is proposing a simplified system for timber treatment which retains the current level of consumer protection, is safe and could reduce the cost of building. We encourage all interested organisations and individuals to consider the proposals and make a submission.
No. 107 - Amendments to Building Code Compliance Documents to reference updated Standards – effective 30 September 2010
30 June 2010: The Department of Building and Housing has published amendments to a number of Compliance Documents to update references to Standards and other documents.
No. 106 - Revised timber-framed buildings Standard NZS 3604
29 March 2010: Standards New Zealand has released for public comment, a draft of the revised timber-framed buildings Standard NZS 3604. The public comment period ends on 7 April 2010.
No.105 - Simple House Acceptable Solution
5 March 2010: Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson today launched the Simple House Acceptable Solution - a framework for architects, designers and builders to develop modest, affordable houses making the consenting process easier and quicker, without compromising design or quality.
No.104 - Consultation on proposals for reform of the Building Act
26 February 2010: The Government is proposing a number of options for reform of the Building Act 2004, set out in the discussion document Cost-effective quality: next generation building control in New Zealand.
No.103 - Comment sought on NASH steel framing standard
24 December 2009: The National Association of Steel Framed Housing (NASH) has released for comment a draft NASH Standard for Residential and Low Rise Steel Framing. The document covers design criteria and is part of a series of design documents that are being developed by NASH for the steel construction industry.
No.102 - Guidance for Solar Water Heaters
24 December 2009: The Department has published Guidance for Solar Water Heaters to help suppliers, installers and building consent authorities to better understand the Building Code performance criteria for solar water heaters.
No.101 - Consulting on changes to Compliance Documents citing updated Standards
10 December 2009: The Department is proposing to update references to Standards and other documents which are cited in a number of Compliance Documents. These contain building methods that assist designers, architects and builders ensure compliance with the Building Code.
No. 100 - Guidelines for post-disaster building safety evaluation released
21 August 2009: Guidelines entitled ‘Building Safety Guidelines during a State of Emergency’ have been published by the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering (NZSEE) with support from the Department of Building and Housing and the Ministry for Civil Defence and Emergency Management.
No. 99 - New Compliance Document for backcountry huts
23 July 2009: In late 2008, the New Zealand Building Code was amended to exempt Department of Conservation backcountry huts from the requirement to have smoke alarms and emergency lighting; access and sanitary facilities for wheelchair users; drinkable water supply and artificial lighting.
No. 98 - BRANZ seminars on getting alternative solutions consented
27 April 2009: BRANZ Research and helpdesk inquiries have revealed that designers and building consent authority staff need to clearly understand the range of options available to show Code Compliance for consent documents that are outside the scope of an Acceptable Solution.
No. 97 - Certificate of Accreditation 2009/01 for the Hebel Panel Cladding System
21 April 2009: A new cladding system has been approved for use on timber-framed residential and light commercial buildings.
No.96 - Guidance on the classification of freestanding, uninhabited garages
4 March 2009: The Department of Building and Housing has moved to clarify the classification of freestanding, uninhabited garages.
No.95 - Building Code clause H1 energy efficiency amendments
30 January 2009: From 1 February 2009, new Building Code (NZBC) provisions for hot water and HVAC systems come into force.
No.94 - Safety reminder: decks, balconies and balustrades
January 2009: The Department of Building and Housing reminds owners of dwellings that decks and balconies supported by untreated kiln-dried timber may pose a safety risk, particularly in those situations where water pools rather than draining away.
No.93 - Simpler rules for backcountry huts
From 31 October 2008, Department of Conservation (DoC) backcountry huts will no longer need to meet certain Building Code requirements that are not consistent with their special character. The new, simpler rules will apply to huts in remote locations on DoC-owned or managed land.
No.92 - Improved thermal performance requirements for houses in the upper North Island
In October 2007, Clause H1 of the New Zealand Building Code was changed to require improved thermal performance (insulation) in all new houses, non-residential buildings smaller than 300m2, and in alterations to both. The changes are already in effect in the South Island and the lower North Island.
No.91 - Consultation on Backcountry Huts Compliance Document
The Department is seeking your views on the proposed Compliance Document for Department of Conservation (DoC) backcountry huts.
No.90 - Changes to Compliance Documents on fire, warning systems and ventilation
5 September 2008: The Department has made minor changes to Compliance Documents for Building Code Clauses C (Fire), F7 (Warning Systems) and G4 (Ventilation).
No.89 - Accessible parking spaces
21 July 2008: The Department, together with the Barrier Free NZ Trust, recently published a guidance document entitled Accessible car parking spaces.
No.88 - Practice Advisory 9 explains structural Compliance Document changes
7 July 2008: The Department has published Practice Advisory 9. This explains the citation of the new AS/NZS 1170 suite of Structural Action Standards in the Building Code Clause B1 (Structure) Compliance Document Amendment 8.
No. 87 - Improved thermal performance requirements for houses in the lower North Island
30 June 2008: In October 2007, Clause H1 of the New Zealand Building Code was changed to require improved thermal performance (insulation) in all new houses, with a staged implementation throughout the country. The new requirements took effect in the South Island and the North Island Central Plateau last year.
No. 86 Consultation on the proposed Compliance Document for simple housing
26 June 2008: The Department of Building and Housing is seeking your comments on the proposed Compliance Document for simple housing.
No. 85 New loading Standard referenced
3 June 2008: The Department has referenced the new loading Standard AS/NZS 1170 by including it in Verification Method 1 under the Building Code Clause B1 Compliance Document. This decision follows extensive public consultation.
No. 84 Backcountry huts
20 May 2008: The Department seeks your comments on proposals to change the New Zealand Building Code to simplify consenting for Department of Conservation (DoC) backcountry huts.
No. 83 - Transitional matters relating to the registration of regional councils as building consent authorities
14 May 2008: This update provides Department guidance on transitional arrangements for building consent authority (BCA) functions relating to dams.
No. 82 - New online calculator for toilet facilities in buildings
23 April 2008: The Department has published a new online calculator for toilet facilities in new public buildings and buildings that are undergoing a change of use.
No. 81 - Changes to the Building Act 2004 affecting Cable Cars coming into effect
8 April 2008: From 31 March, a requirement in the Building Act 2004 relating to cable cars took effect.
No. 80 - Timber treatment survey
13 March 2008: The Department invites responses from the industry to a short survey on the supply and use of treated framing timber. The target audience is those working in the industry rather than homeowners.
No. 79 - New Acceptable Solution for earth buildings
7 March 2008: The Department has published a new Acceptable Solution (E2/AS2) for the weathertightness of earth buildings.
No. 78 - Proposed amendments to the Compliance Documents for ventilation
25 January 2008: The Department has gazetted a proposed change to the Compliance Document for Building Code Clauses G4 Ventilation.
No. 77 - Six more councils registered as building consent authorities
18 January 2008: A further six territorial authorities have been registered by the Department of Building and Housing as building consent authorities (BCAs), having earlier been accredited as such by International Accreditation New Zealand.
No. 76 - Safety reminder: Decks, balconies and balustrades
19 December 2007: As in previous years, the Department of Building and Housing reminds owners of dwellings that balconies supported by untreated kiln-dried timber may pose a safety risk. This is particularly so in those situations where water pools rather than draining away.
No. 75 - Guidance document on repair of leaking buildings
23 November 2007: A new guidance document External moisture – A guide to weathertightness remediation, has been released by the Department of Building and Housing.
No. 74 - First territorial authorities registered as building consent authorities
7 November 2007: The first territorial authorities to be accredited as building consent authorities have now been registered as such.
The Building Consent Authority Accreditation and Registration Scheme is among Building Act 2004 reforms aimed at ensuring buildings are built right first time. It focuses on strengthening the building process at the consent processing, inspection and approval stages – ie, making sure that territorial and regional authorities have the appropriate systems, processes, procedures, resources and capability to do the job properly.
No. 73 - New Acceptable Solution for installing solar water heaters
6 November 2007: The Department has published a new Acceptable Solution for installing solar water heaters, G12/AS2. It is available on the Department’s website, and can be obtained by calling 0800 242 243.
No.72 - Changes to Building Code and Compliance Document energy efficiency provisions
31 October 2007: From 31 October 2007, tougher thermal performance standards apply to all new houses and small buildings (less than 300m2 floor area) in the South Island and the North Island Central Plateau (Taupo District, Ruapehu District and northern part of Rangitikei District). The new requirements will be introduced in other areas of New Zealand during 2008.
No. 71 - Review of Timber Standards | Boron treated solid timber cladding
17 September 2007: In August 2006, Building Controls update No. 44 was issued, announcing the Department’s concern over Amendment 3 to NZS 3640 complying with the Building Code. The Department’s concerns related primarily to points (1) and (2) below.
No. 70 - Consultation on a new Acceptable Solution for Solar water heating (G12/AS2) and amendments to G12/AS1
3 September 2007: The Department welcomes comments on the proposals to amend Compliance Documents for Clause G12 Water Supplies. The changes proposed include:
- introduction of a new Acceptable Solution for solar water heating systems (G12/AS2)
- consequential changes to the current Acceptable Solution (G12/AS1).
Read the BC Update No.70 »
No. 69 - New H1 Compliance Document published
17 August 2007: The Department has published a new edition of the Building Code Clause H1 Compliance Document. It reflects the energy efficiency improvements announced by the government in May.
No. 68 - Extension of date for accreditation and registration of building consent authorities
8 August 2007: The Government is proposing to extend the date by which territorial and regional authorities must be accredited and registered as building consent authorities from the current 30 November 2007 until 30 June 2008.
No. 67 - Consultation announced as next step in Building Code review
6 August 2007: The Minister for Building and Construction has announced the release of a discussion document on the performance requirements of the Building Code. Submissions are open up to 28 September 2007.
No. 66 - Palmerston North first council accredited as a building consent authority
25 July 2007: Palmerston North City Council celebrated being the first local authority to be accredited as a building consent authority with a function on 23 July at which Building and Construction Minister Hon Clayton Cosgrove presented the council with an accreditation certificate.
No. 65 - New F6 Compliance Document published
23 July 2007: The Department of Building and Housing has published a new Compliance Document for Building Code Clause F6 (formerly Lighting for Emergency, now Visibility in Escape Routes).
No. 64 - Changes to Building Code Clauses E2, F4, F6 and G13/G14
6 July 2007: Several unrelated changes to Building Code Clauses came into effect on 21 June.
No. 63 - Publication of the New Zealand Building Code Handbook and the Compliance Schedule Handbook
15 June 2007: The New Zealand Building Code Handbook has been revised. This new edition reflects the changes introduced by the Building Act 2004, Building (Specified Systems, Change the Use, and Earthquake-Prone Buildings) Regulations 2005 and amendments to other documents.
No.62 - Consultation on Changes to F6 Compliance Document
11 June 2007: The Department of Building and Housing is changing the Compliance Document for Building Code Clause F6 (Lighting for Emergency). A new Compliance Document will be introduced shortly. The Department consulted on it in August 2005.
No.61 - Fees set for accreditation of building consent authorities
8 May 2007: The Government has set the fees that territorial and regional authorities (councils) will pay International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) to be assessed against the standards and criteria for accreditation as building consent authorities.
No.60 - Consultation on energy efficiency of buildings opens
4 May 2007: Building and Construction Minister Clayton Cosgrove has announced the opening of the second public consultation on ways to lift the energy efficiency of our homes and workplaces.
No.59 - Consultation paper issued on requirements for registration
1 May 2007: Consultation is under way on proposed standards and criteria for the registration of building consent authorities.
No.58 - Compliance Document amendments
22 March 2007: Following last year’s public consultation, the Department of Building and Housing is about to publish amendments to nine Compliance Documents. The amendments are part of the Department’s regular maintenance of Compliance Documents.
No.57 - Proposed amendments to Compliance Documents for fire safety, warning systems and ventilation
5 March 2007: The Department has released a public discussion document proposing minor changes to Compliance Documents for Building Code Clauses:
- C Fire Safety
- F7 Warning Systems
- G4 Ventilation
Read the BC Update No.57 »
No.56 - New Masonry Standard
27 February 2007: The Department has released for public consultation a proposal to cite NZS 4230: 2004 Design of Reinforced Concrete Masonry Structures in the Verification Method B1/VM1.The Department is seeking your comments by 3 April 2007. Read BC Update No.56 »
No. 55 - Building Consent Authority Accreditation Assistance Package Update
21 February 2007: The Department of Building and Housing is pleased to announce that the funding allocation framework for the building consent authority accreditation assistance package has been established and a timetable is now available for the provision and disbursement of targeted assistance. Read BC Update No.55 »
No. 54 - Building Consent Authority Accreditation Preparation and Self Assessment Guide
19 February 2007: The Department has released the Building Consent Authority Accreditation Preparation and Self Assessment Guide. This guide is intended for territorial and regional authorities and private bodies as a tool to help them assess their existing building control policies, processes and procedures, against the requirements of the Building (Accreditation as a Building Consent Authority) Regulations 2006. Read BC Update No.54 »
No. 53 - New guidance documents on access for people with disabilities
14 February 2007: The Department of Building and Housing and Barrier Free New Zealand Trust have jointly published two guidance booklets entitled: The international symbol of access and Accessible reception and service counters Read BC Update No.53 »
No.52 - Building for the 21st Century: Review of the Building Code - Release of synopsis report
31 January 2007: The Department has released a synopsis of submissions on the discussion document Building for the 21st Century: Review of the Building Code. The synopsis summarises the themes identified by submitters about the future of the Building Code and has provided invaluable feedback for ensuring the review’s success. Read BC Update No.52 »
No.51 - Building Consent Authority Accreditation Assistance Package
11 January 2007: The assistance package makes available $3 million (GST inclusive) from the Building Levy to help local authorities develop resources and prepare for accreditation as building consent authorities. Read BC Update No.51 »
No.50 - Building consent authority accreditation standards and criteria regulations
9 January 2007: The Building (Accreditation of Building Consent Authorities) Regulations 2006 were passed on 18 December 2006. They come into force on 1 February 2007. These regulations were developed following consultation with local government, building practitioners, and sector organisations. Read BC Update No.50 »
No.49 - Consultation on changes to Compliance Document B1 Structure to cite AS/NZS 1170
15 December 2006: The Department of Building and Housing is proposing to amend the Compliance Document for Building Code Clause B1 Structure by referencing the new joint Australian/New Zealand suite of Standards, AS/NZS 1170, Structural Design Actions, in place of NZS 4203. Read BC Update No.49 »
No.48 - Energy efficiency of buildings Consultation on energy efficiency of buildings opens
6 November 2006: Building Issues Minister Clayton Cosgrove has announced the opening of a public consultation on ways to lift the energy efficiency of our homes and workplaces. Read BC Update No.48 »
No.47 - Building Consent Authority accreditation standards to be drafted
26 October 2006: Cabinet last week approved the drafting of accreditation standards and criteria proposals for the building consent authority accreditation scheme. Read BC Update No. 47 »
No.46 - Department of Building and Housing consults on BCA fees and support package
13 October 2006: The Department is seeking sector views on proposed accreditation fees and an assistance package for Territorial and Regional Authorities. Read BC Update No.46 »
No.45 - Department references amendments to timber Standards in the Compliance Document for Clause B1 (Structure)
14 September 2006: The Department of Building and Housing has amended the Compliance Document for Building Code Clause B1 (Structure) by referencing two amendments to New Zealand Standards that deal with timber grade verification and the use of timber for framing. This is Amendment 7 to the B1 Compliance Document. Read BC Update No.45 »
No.44 - Standards New Zealand publishes changes to NZS 3640
21 August 2006: Standards New Zealand today published an amendment to NZS 3640 (Chemical Preservation of Round and Sawn Timber). Read BC Update No.44 »
No.43 - Changes to important Building Code Compliance Documents
18 August 2006: The Department of Building and Housing is moving to revise a number of Compliance Documents which assist designers, architects and builders ensure they are meeting the terms of the Building Code. Read BC Update No.43 »
No.42 - Find the information you need faster and easier at www.dbh.govt.nz
14 August 2006: On 10 August the Department of Building and Housing launched its new website. The new website is designed to make it faster and easier for you to find information about building, renovating, maintaining a property and renting. Read BC Update No.42 »
No.41 - IANZ appointed as Building Consent Accreditation Body
10 August 2006: The Department of Building and Housing has appointed International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) as the Building Consent Accreditation Body for the new building consent authority (BCA) accreditation scheme to be implemented under the Building Act 2004. Read BC Update No.41 »
No.40 - Dam safety regulations proposed
2 June 2006: Building Issues Minister Clayton Cosgrove today released a consultation document on proposed dam safety regulations. Legislation introduced with the Building Act 2004 covers dam construction and safety management for large dams. This will ensure that dams are well built, that large dams are regularly monitored, and the risk to people and property is minimised. Read BC Update No.40 »
No.39 - Minister announces important milestone in reviewing the Building Code
29 May 2006: The Minister for Building Issues announced an important milestone in reviewing the New Zealand Building Code at the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand Conference on 27 May. Read BC Update No.39 »
No.38 - Amendment to wallchart ‘Reinforcing Steel in New Zealand'
29 Mar 2006: In September 2005 a copy of the wallchart ‘Reinforcing Steel in New Zealand - A quick guide for designers, building consent authorities and contractors’ dated June 2005 was distributed together with our Practice Advisory 7. Read BC Update No.38 »
No.37 - Compliance schedules and ‘means of escape from fire’
Update: 27 Jan 2006 - The Department has developed a draft document to provide guidance on compliance schedule content for specified system 15.
21 Dec 2005: The regulations covering the list of specified systems have been amended to include additional features and systems relating to means of escape from fire. The new regulations will come into force on 12 January 2006. Read BC Update No.37 »
No.36 - Consultation on proposed amendment to the Compliance Document for Clause B1 Structure
16 Dec 2005: The Department of Building and Housing is seeking feedback on proposed changes to Acceptable Solution B1/AS1 General, as contained in the Compliance Document for Clause B1 Structure. Read BC Update No.36 »
No.35 - Review of Design and Construction of Slender Precast Concrete Walls
15 Dec 2005: The Report to the Department of Building and Housing: Review of Design and Construction of Slender Precast Concrete Walls is now available from the Department’s website. Read BC Update No.35 »
No.34 - Change of closing date: Consultation on Compliance Document C/AS1
8 Dec 2005: The Department of Building and Housing advises of a change of closing date for submissions on proposed amendments to the Compliance Document C/AS1 for the Fire Safety Clauses of the New Zealand Building Code. Read BC Update No.34 »
No.33 - Safety reminder: Decks, balconies and balustrades
2 Dec 2005: The Department of Building and Housing reminds owners of dwellings that balconies supported by untreated kiln-dried timber may pose a safety risk. This is particularly so in those situations where water pools rather than draining away. Read BC Update No.33 »
No.32 - Erratum to Table 23 of E2/AS1
24 Nov 2005: The third edition of the Compliance Document for Clause E2 External Moisture was issued in June 2004. Amendment 2 to this third edition was issued to become effective on 1 July 2005. Read BC Update No.32 »
No.31 - Consultation: Changes to Compliance Document for the Fire Safety clauses of the Building Code
4 Nov 2005: The Department of Building and Housing is seeking feedback on proposed amendments to the Compliance Document C/AS1 for the Fire Safety clauses of the New Zealand Building Code. Read BC Update No.31 »
No.30 - Reduced price for the Compliance Document CD-ROM and a new version for Mac users
4 Oct 2005: The Department of Building and Housing has reviewed its Building Code Compliance Document CD-ROM to make it more useful, usable and cost-effective. Read BC Update No.30 »
No.29 - Guidance for managing variations and amendments to building consents
2 Sep 2005: This Building Controls Update deals with variations and amendments to building consents. The Building Act 2004 revised the consents and inspection process and altered the way in which code compliance certificates are issued. This has had an impact in the way that variations are managed. Read BC Update No.29 »
No.28 - Legionella outbreak - information for building owners and managers
31 Aug 2005: Following the recent outbreak of legionellosis in Christchurch, the Department of Building and Housing reminds building owners and managers of their responsibilities under the Building Act in terms of maintaining a healthy and safe building. Read BC Update No.28 »
No.27 - Report on Grade 500E Steel Reinforcement and related information
30 Aug 2005: The Department of Building and Housing has recently published the Report on Grade 500E Steel Reinforcement, together with a wallchart and Practice Advisory No. 7. Read BC Update No.27 »
No.26 - Preliminary report on TimberSaver boron released
19 Aug 2005: The Department of Building and Housing has released its preliminary report into timber treatment product TimberSaver boron. The investigation followed concern about the long-term viability of timber treated with the product. Read BC Update No.26 »
No.25 - Consultation on proposed amendments to Building Code Clause F6 Lighting for Emergency
5 Aug 2005: The Department of Building and Housing is seeking feedback on proposed amendments to New Zealand Building Code Clause F6 Lighting for Emergency and its Compliance Document. Read BC Update No.25 »
No.24 - Changes to compliance schedules and ‘means of escape’
29 Jul 2005: A building that has a specified system must have a compliance schedule that lists that system (issued by a territorial authority). The owner of the building must issue an annual building warrant of fitness confirming that all specified systems have been inspected and maintained in accordance with the compliance schedule. Read BC Update No.24 »
No.23 - Release of Building Product Certification discussion document
19 Jul 2005: The Building Act 2004 contains provisions for a third party product certification scheme that will enable product manufacturers to have their products certified as meeting the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code. Read BC Update No.23 »
No.22 - Guidelines for the specification and site handling of TimberSaver boron treated framing
12 Jul 2005: There is currently media interest around the use of TimberSaver boron treated timber. This Building Controls Update describes the product, and its use. Read BC Update No.22 »
No.21 - Publication of amendments to Compliance Document for Building Code Fire Safety Clauses
4 Jul 2005: The Department sought comment in June 2005 with respect to the effective date and transitional arrangements for amendments to the Compliance Document for the Building Code Fire Safety Clauses. Read BC Update No.21 »
No.20 - Certificate for Public Use effective 21 July 2005
1 Jul 2005: New Building (Forms) Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2005 have been gazetted and will take effect on 21 July 2005. Read BC Update No.20 »
No.19 - New weathertightness requirements effective 1 July 2005
24 Jun 2005: The transition period for changes to the weathertightness Acceptable Solution for Clause E2 External Moisture of the Building Code, E2/AS1, also known as the ‘Weathertightness Solution’, is almost over. Announced in June 2004, the changes become effective on 1 July 2005. Read BC Update No.19 »
No.18 - Consultation: Publication of Compliance Document C Fire Safety Clauses
18 Jun 2005: The Department of Building and Housing released proposed changes to the Compliance Document for the C Fire Safety Clauses of the Building Code for public consultation in November 2004. Read BC Update No.18 »
No.17 - Release of the International Fire Engineering Guidelines
26 May 2005: The Department of Building and Housing has released a new guidance document for the development of fire designs. Read BC Update No.17 »
No.16 - Consultation on proposed amendment to the Compliance Document for B1 Structure
24 May 2005: The Department of Building and Housing is seeking feedback on proposed changes to Verification Method B1/VM1 General, as contained in the Compliance Document for Clause B1 Structure. Read BC Update No.16 »
No.15 - General Manager, Building Controls appointment
4 May 2005: Department of Building and Housing Chief Executive Katrina Bach has announced the appointment of John Kay as the General Manager, Building Controls. Read BC Update No.15 »
No.14 - Design Review Unit Update 2 (NZFS)
22 Apr 2005: From 22 April 2005, Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) are required under the Building Act 2004 to send a copy of certain applications for building consent to the New Zealand Fire Service (NZFS) for comment. Read BC Update No.14 »
No.13 - Amendments to Building Act 2004 passed into law
19 Apr 2005: Technical issues related to the Building Act 2004 have now been resolved. Amendments to the Building Act were included in the Legislation (Incorporation by Reference) Bill that received royal assent from the Governor-General last week and is now law.
Note: (21 April 2005) The original Building Controls Update that was emailed to subscribers on 19 April stated the commencement date of the Amendment Act as being 15 April. This is incorrect - the commencement date was 14 April. Read BC Update No.13 »
No.12 - Registered Architects Bill Passed into Law
15 Apr 2005: The Registered Architects Bill has been passed into law. Following below is a media release from the Minister for Building Issues, Hon Chris Carter. The Department of Building and Housing has prepared some answers to frequently asked questions regarding the legislation. Read BC Update No.12 »
No.11 - Applications sought: Chief Executive's Advisory Panel
11 Apr 2005: The Department of Building and Housing was established on 1 November 2004. The Department’s aim is to ensure an effective building and housing sector that delivers quality buildings and housing at reasonable cost. Read BC Update No.11 »
No.10 - Building Act 2004 now in force
31 Mar 2005: The Building Act 1991 has been repealed and the Building Act 2004 is now fully in force. The Act introduces major changes for New Zealand’s building control system. It is about improving control of and encouraging better practices in building design and construction, to ensure buildings are built right first time.
See also: Amendments to the Building Act 2004 (as contained in the Building Amendment Act 2005) came into force on 14 April 2005. Read BC Update No.10 »
No.9 - Design Review Unit Update 1 (NZFS)
17 Mar 2005: The Department of Building and Housing will be publishing a Gazette Notice under section 46 of the Building Act 2004 on 24 March 2005. The Notice will take effect from 22 April 2005. Read BC Update No.9 »
No.8 - New building regulations gazetted
4 Mar 2005: New building regulations have been gazetted and will take effect from 31 March 2005 – the same date as the associated sections of the Building Act 2004. Read BC Update No.8 »
No.7 - Changes to Building Levy announced
18 Feb 2005: The Minister for Building Issues, Hon Chris Carter yesterday announced changes to the Building Levy. A copy of this announcement follows. Read BC Update No.7 »
No. 6 - Review of private building certifier insurance requirements
27 Jan 2005: People using private building certifiers should be aware that certifiers may not have adequate insurance cover against potential claims of negligence, particularly if the certifier does not continue in business, the Department of Building and Housing advised today. Read BC Update No.6 »
No. 5 - Structural engineering Practice Advisories published
24 Dec 2004: The Department of Building and Housing has initiated a series of Practice Advisories aimed at the various sectors of the building industry. They are intended to remind that compliance with building standards is critical to the objective of the Building Code. The first six Practice Advisories have now been issued, covering certain structural engineering issues. Read BC Update No.5 »
No. 4 - Proposed changes to the B1 Structure Approved Document
24 Dec 2004:The Department of Building and Housing is seeking feedback on proposed changes to its Approved Document for Clause B1 Structure. The change relates to Standard NZS 3109: 1997 Concrete Construction. Read BC Update No.4 »
No. 3 - Receivership of Nationwide Building Certifiers Group Ltd and transfer of files
10 Dec 2004: The Department of Building and Housing* has previously advised that it has been in discussion with the receivers of Nationwide Building Certifiers Group Ltd (Nationwide). Read BC Update No.3 »
No. 2 - Consultation on International Fire Engineering Guidelines Part 0 - New Zealand
6 Dec 2004: The Department of Building and Housing seeks public comment on International Fire Engineering Guidelines Part 0 - New Zealand. The proposals set out for consultation are an important measure for improving fire safety in New Zealand. Read BC Update No.2 »
No. 1 - ConsumerBuild website launched
3 Dec 2004: Welcome to the first issue of Building Controls Update, an email newsletter published by the Building Controls Group of the Department of Building and Housing (DBH). This Update announces the launch of the ConsumerBuild website, which was created in partnership between the Department and Consumers' Institute. Read BC Update No.1 »