Building Act Review
Why is the review happening and who will it affect?
As part of the Government’s regulatory reform programme, the Building Act 2004 is being reviewed in response to concerns from the public and the building and construction sector about:
- Implementation of the Building Act at council level
- The costs and complexity of the building consent process
- Delays and costs caused by councils being too risk-averse in the building consent process.
The aim of the review will be to reduce the costs associated with the building control
system in New Zealand, without compromising quality. The review seeks the following results:
- Quality homes and buildings produced through an efficient regulatory framework
- Informed decisions by consumers and confidence in the building and housing market
- A productive sector where homes and buildings are built using the right skills and knowledge
- An efficient and cost-effective regulatory system.
Any changes to the Building Act 2004 as a result of the review will affect all New Zealanders, but particularly councils, building officials, practitioners and homeowners.
Terms of reference for the review are available:
How can I be involved?
You are invited to read and comment on a number of options for reform, set out in the discussion document Cost-effective quality: next generation building control in New Zealand.
The closing date for comments is 23 April 2010.
If you have any queries, email buildingactreview@dbh.govt.nz
Who is conducting the review?
The Building Act Review is being carried out by the Department of Building and Housing.
A reference group has been established with representatives from the building and construction sector and consumers to ensure the sector’s issues are addressed, and to advise on review recommendations.
What is the timetable?
The Minister for Building and Construction announced the Building Act Review on 27 August 2009.
The first phase saw the review team and reference group identify opportunities for reform.
The second phase is to consult industry and the public on options for reform. Final decisions, taking into account feedback, will be made in mid-2010.
What else is happening?
Arising from the first phase of the Building Act review, there are two independent reviews being conducted into specific parts of the Act; Section 363B and the Dam Safety Scheme. Find out more about these independent reviews here.