Building Code compliance

Complying with the Building Code

All building work in New Zealand must comply with the Building Code, even if it doesn’t require a building consent. This ensures buildings are safe, healthy and durable for everyone who may use them.

Plans and specifications are assessed by building consent authorities (BCAs), usually the council, to ensure the proposed building work will comply with the Building Code. When the BCA is satisfied, it will issue a building consent for the work to proceed. If the work is built to the consented plans and receives a code compliance certificate, it confirms the requirements of the Building Code have been met.

The Building Code is contained in regulations under the Building Act 2004. The Act governs the building sector and also sets out the rules for the construction, alteration, demolition and maintenance of new and existing buildings in New Zealand. It works alongside other legislation for health, safety, consumer protection and land use.

Find Acceptable Solutions, Verification Methods, updates and technical guidance by Building Code clause

How the Building Code works

Find out how the Building Code fits with the other rules and regulations to provide greater confidence in the building performance system and in the sector itself.

About alternative solutions

An alternative solutions can include a material, component or construction method that differs completely or partially from those decribed in the Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods.  It can be a minor  variation from a Acceptable Solution and Verification Method, or a radically different design and construction approach.

This information is published by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Chief Executive. It is a general guide only and, if used, does not relieve any person of the obligation to consider any matter to which the information relates according to the circumstances of the particular case. Expert advice may be required in specific circumstances. Where this information relates to assisting people: