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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2022/006: The compliance with Clause F9 Means of restricting access to residential pools of a pool barrier incorporating a microchip operated pet door

This determination considers whether the pool barrier that incorporates a pet door with modifiable controls complies with Clause F9 – Means of restricting access to residential pools of the Building Code. The determination assesses the compliance of the barrier against the Acceptable Solution F9/AS1 and as an alternative solution.

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2021/026: Regarding the compliance of a barrier to a small heated pool

This determination considers, whether the barrier to restrict access by unsupervised young children to a small heated pool, complies with section 162C of the Building Act. This determination discusses the compliance obligations and considers whether a waiver or modification of the means of restricting access to the spa pool can be granted.

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2021/024: Regarding the compliance of a proposed pool barrier incorporating an existing boundary fence

This determination considers the compliance of an existing boundary fence forming part of a proposed pool barrier, with Building Code Clause F9 Means of restricting access to residential pools. The determination discusses whether compliance with Clause F9 can be achieved by way of an alternative solution.

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2021/019: Regarding the compliance of a swimming pool barrier that incorporates an existing balcony balustrade

This determination considers the compliance of a pool barrier that incorporates a balcony balustrade. In determining whether the barrier achieves the compliance with Clause F9 Means of Restricting Access to Residential pools of the Building Code, the determination assesses the barrier against the Acceptable Solution F9/AS1 and as an alternative solution.

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2021/015: Regarding the compliance of an existing pool barrier

Note (added 11/08/2022): Please note that this determination incorrectly refers to section 450A of the Building Act 2004 as a compliance pathway for the pool barrier in this determination. The acceptable solution provided for in section 450A was revoked by way of Gazette notice on 27 April 2017. As the determination does not conclude that the pool barrier was compliant via the acceptable solution in section 450A, the outcome of the determination is not affected.

This determination considers the compliance of an existing pool barrier that incorporates a number of sliding wall panels and for which a code compliance certificate had previously been issued. The determination describes various pathways to establishing compliance for the purpose of section 162C of the Building Act 2004, and considers whether the pool barrier complies by any of those means. The determination also considers whether an exemption had been granted under the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987.

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2021/014: Regarding compliance with the Building Act of an existing pool barrier

Note: This determination is subject to appeal.

Note (added 11/08/2022): Please note that this determination incorrectly refers to section 450A of the Building Act 2004 as a compliance pathway for the pool barrier in this determination. The acceptable solution provided for in section 450A was revoked by way of Gazette notice on 27 April 2017. As the determination does not conclude that the pool barrier was compliant via the acceptable solution in section 450A, the outcome of the determination is not affected.

This determination considers the compliance of an existing pool barrier that incorporates brick columns and walls and sections of metal fencing, and hedges. The determination describes various pathways to establishing compliance for the purpose of section 162C of the Building Act 2004, and considers whether the pool barrier complies by any of those means. The determination also considers the status of an exemption granted under the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987.

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2021/009: Regarding the compliance of a new section of pool barrier

Note (added 11/08/2022): Please note that this determination incorrectly refers to section 450A of the Building Act 2004 as a compliance pathway for the pool barrier in this determination. The acceptable solution provided for in section 450A was revoked by way of Gazette notice on 27 April 2017. As the determination does not conclude that the pool barrier was compliant via the acceptable solution in section 450A, the outcome of the determination is not affected.

This determination considers the compliance of a pool barrier with section 162C of the Building Act 2004 and clause F9 of the Building Code (Means of restricting access to residential pools). The determination concerns a section of a boundary fence where it adjoins other fences. Together these fences form part of a pool barrier. The determination assesses whether an aspect of building work complies with the Building Code by way of Acceptable Solution F9/AS1 or by another means, widely referred to as an 'alternative solution'.

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2020/028: Regarding the compliance of a pool barrier with Building Code Clause F9 Means of restricting access to residential pools

This determination considers the compliance of a new pool barrier with Building Code Clause F9 Means of restricting access to residential pools. The determination discusses the parts of the barrier consisting of boundary fences and junctions with internal sections of the barrier, and trees on the inside of the boundary fences.

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2020/026: Regarding the compliance of a swimming pool barrier consisting of a pool cover and a proposed alarm system

Note: Appeal dismissed.

Note (added 11/08/2022): Please note that this determination incorrectly refers to section 450A of the Building Act 2004 as a compliance pathway for the pool barrier in this determination. The acceptable solution provided for in section 450A was revoked by way of Gazette notice on 27 April 2017. As the determination does not conclude that the pool barrier was compliant via the acceptable solution in section 450A, the outcome of the determination is not affected.

This determination considers the compliance of a swimming pool barrier consisting of a pool cover and either of two proposed alarm systems. The determination discusses management practices and human behaviour with regard to the Building Code obligations, and considers whether a waiver or modification of the Building Code is appropriate in the circumstances.

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2020/018: Regarding the compliance of a pool barrier and whether the authority was correct to grant an exemption for its construction

This determination considers the authority's decision to grant a discretionary exemption from the requirement to obtain building consent for the construction of a section of pool barrier. The determination also considers the compliance of the new section of pool barrier with Clause F9 of the Building Code (Means of restricting access to residential pools).

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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: