Next steps in the Building Code fire safety review

Since the last update of the Building Code fire safety regulations in 2012, New Zealand’s building and construction landscape has changed rapidly – adding new complexities to fire safety in our homes and buildings. The 2023 Loafers Lodge tragedy also brought to light the importance of ensuring building rules keep people safe and keep pace with changes to how we design, construct and use buildings. 

As part of its review of New Zealand’s fire safety requirements in the Building Code, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) sought feedback from the public on the current fire safety system in late 2024. The review proposed four outcomes from an improved fire safety system:

• Building Code requirements need to be clear on protection levels based on building types and their users. 
• Fire safety provisions in the Building Code need to keep up with changes in urban design, modern construction methods and the different ways buildings are being used.
• Fire safety regulatory requirements in the Building Code should be fit for purpose and cost-effective in achieving the desired level of protection.
• Minimise gaps and inconsistencies in fire safety regulations to provide certainty, clarity and consistency.

MBIE received submissions from over 100 organisations, businesses and individuals across the construction sector and beyond – many of whom agreed that the current framework for fire safety is overly complex and risks leading to inconsistent compliance decisions, consenting challenges, and difficulty maintaining existing buildings. 

Read a summary of submissions — mbie.govt.nz

The results of the consultation process underscore strong support for MBIE to continue the review and identify concrete improvements to the Building Code’s fire safety provisions. MBIE will incorporate this feedback into proposed changes to the Building Code for Cabinet consideration in early 2026.