The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment are seeking feedback on fire safety requirements in the Building Code to offer better protection from fire for people and property.

From 30 September 2024, changes to building regulations have been enacted making it easier for homeowners, builders and designers to make simple changes to consented building designs or pre-approved MultiProof designs.

Feedback is being sought on the H1 Energy Efficiency standards, specifically looking at insulation settings and improving flexibility of building designs.

Earlier this month, the Building (Overseas Building Products, Standards, and Certification Schemes) Amendment Bill (the Bill) was introduced to the House. The Bill introduces changes to the Building Act which will reduce barriers to using quality overseas building products in building work throughout New Zealand.

The Government has passed the Building (Earthquake-prone Building Deadlines and Other Matters) Amendment Bill that will extend earthquake-prone building remediation deadlines by 4 years.

The Government is seeking feedback from the building and construction sector on key issues they have experienced or identified in the Building Code related to fire safety.

The discussion document provides details on the fire safety issues in the Building Code regulations and is used to help get Building Code fire safety review feedback.

A skilled and competent workforce plays a critical role in our building system, protecting New Zealanders from harm by ensuring services are performed with reasonable and consistent care and skill to ensure building work is done right the first time.

The Government has announced a new programme of work to investigate significant reform of the building consent system in New Zealand. The aim is to drive consistency, certainty and efficiency, making it clearer and easier for Kiwis to build.