Plasterboard

Plasterboard substitution in Aotearoa New Zealand

Aotearoa New Zealand is currently facing a shortage of plasterboard products. The Building Code sets the minimum performance requirements that building work must meet. It does not prescribe which materials or products to use. The designer can choose the product that fits their requirements as long as they can provide evidence that it complies with the Building Code.

Due to supply chain issues, a product may need to be substituted after the building consent has been issued. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has recently released guidance for designers, contractors and building owners with some key points to consider when thinking about using building products different from those originally requested and specified, and also guidance for Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) on how to manage product substitution.

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: