Consultation has opened on proposed changes to the Building Code, which will focus on improving the long term resilience
of buildings in areas with liquefaction-prone ground. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
consults on the Building Code bi-annually, with changes being published in June and November every year.
“The changes this time are focussed on helping to support high-density housing, by providing safer building solutions
and increased design options,” says Dave Robson, Manager Building Performance and Engineering at MBIE.
“One of the main changes being proposed sets out a new way of mapping liquefaction prone-ground, to ensure new buildings
have resilient foundations.
“This is already being applied in the Canterbury region, so we’re proposing that it’s rolled-out nationwide. This will
provide clarity to councils and engineers, meaning safer outcomes for all buildings.
“We’re also proposing to make the NASH (national association of steel-framed housing) standard that ensures steel-framed
housing is weather tight an Acceptable Solution.
“This will remove additional costs associated with steel-framed housing, giving developers and designers more options,
which is always positive for consumers.
“Engineers, councils and those looking to build a home would particularly be impacted by these changes, so I encourage
them to take some time to let us know their thoughts,” Mr Robson says.
Consultation on the proposed changes to the Building Code runs from 5 August to 13 September 2019.
Submissions can be made by email to buildingfeedback@mbie.govt.nz, or on the MBIE website.