Previous determinations

Determinations are made by MBIE on matters of doubt or dispute to do with building work. Rulings are legally binding, but only in relation to each case.

Previous determinations may provide some useful guidance for those faced with similar problems, but note that individual circumstances may vary.

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2015/029: Issue of a notice to fix and the refusal to issue a code compliance certificate for 11 year-old alterations to a 1970s solid timber house

Discussed the weathertightness and durability of exterior wall cladding, including components of monolithic EIFS overlay wall cladding, the underlying original aluminium faced solid wall planks and the windows, as well how the components were installed and worked together.

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2015/028: Refusal to grant building consent and whether proposed alterations to an existing building comply with the Building Code

Considered the application of sections 17 and 112 of the Act, and the compliance of the proposed fire alarm system. Discussed compliance of the building as a whole after the alterations ‘as nearly as is reasonably practicable’ with respect to means of escape, and how the approach involves the balancing of sacrifices and difficulties of upgrading against the advantages of upgrading. Discussed use of MBIE guidance and “gap assessment”.

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2015/027: Regarding the issue of a code compliance certificate for 11 year-old additions and alterations to a house with monolithic cladding

Discussed the issue of a code compliance certificate without wording to record that a modification of Clause B2.3.1 had been made, and whether there is a requirement under the Act for modifications of the Building Code to be noted on the code compliance certificate.

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2015/026: Regarding the issue of a notice to fix and whether a prefabricated unit is a building or a vehicle

Discussed whether the prefabricated unit is a vehicle, and whether it falls within the definition of a building under section 8 (1) (a) of the Building Act. Also discussed whether the relocation of the unit constituted building work and could be subject to a notice to fix.

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2015/025: Regarding conditions on a building consent for the recladding of a house

Discussed whether the authority was legally entitled to place conditions on a building consent, particularly regarding a “quality assurance plan” in respect of potential timber remediation.

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2015/024: Regarding the refusal to issue a code compliance certificate for a 12 year-old house completed under the supervision of a building certifier

Discussed as title and whether a comparison to the wharenui (marae buildings) exemption is appropriate. Also provides a general framework for modifications or waivers under section 67 of the Act, and methodology for deciding whether it is “reasonable” to grant a modification, for example, by reviewing the extent and possible consequence of the non-compliance with a specific performance clause, or reviewing for consistency with the purpose and principles of the Building Act.

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2015/023: Regarding the refusal to issue a code compliance certificate for a house constructed with structural insulated panels

Discussed issuing a code compliance certificate for a building consent where the as-built construction differs from that consented, or where there is conflicting or insufficient detail in the consent, and the importance of considering whether the completed building work complies with the Building Code. Also discussed amending the consent to include the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.

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2015/022: Authority's refusal to grant a modification of clause 3.4a of the Building Code in respect of materials used for internal surface linings

Discussed as title and whether a comparison to the wharenui (marae buildings) exemption is appropriate. Also provides a general framework for modifications or waivers under section 67 of the Act, and methodology for deciding whether it is “reasonable” to grant a modification, for example, by reviewing the extent and possible consequence of the non-compliance with a specific performance clause, or reviewing for consistency with the purpose and principles of the Building Act.

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2015/021: Regarding the refusal to issue an exemption under Schedule 1(2) for plumbing and drainage work

Discussed the nature and complexity of building work and the relative competencies of those carrying out the work in relation to whether an exemption for building consent should be granted under Schedule 1(2), and the need for independent quality assurance systems and checks against the Building Code.

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2015/020: Dispute over an amendment to a building consent to use uPVC window and door joinery to a house

Discussed whether the application for amendment to consent contained accurate and adequate information to demonstrate compliance with B1 Structure, B2 Durability and E2 External Moisture of the Building Code as an alternative solution.

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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: