Quick guide to product substitution

Introduction

If you are a designer, contractor or building owner considering product substitutions, this guide may be of use to you.

Designers, contractors or building owners may consider using other building products to those specified or requested for any number of reasons including personal preference, price or availability.

However, if you are thinking about substituting a product you need to:

1. consider the legal context, particularly any additional obligations you might incur from product substitution
2. consider the broader implications of using a different product to that specified, including whether it is fit for the same purpose and still meets the owner’s needs
3. implement any changes; for example, if substituting the product requires an amendment to a building consent.

We summarise these steps in this guide to product substitution.

Making changes to your plans has information on what you will need to do if your building plans change. You may need to apply for an amendment to consent, which may result in additional costs and delays.