You are using an outdated browser version not supported by this website.
Click here to upgrade your browser

What’s Really Slowing Down the Building Consent Process?

In this new series of blog posts, Professor Anthony Hōete looks at the results of ModelDocs — a BRANZ funded research programme that delves into NZ’s building consent process to seek behavioural transformation.

First up: How long is it taking for consents to be processed? And why so many annoying RFIs?

Read all

28 April 2025
28 April 2025

Why is Housing Getting More Expensive?

tom rumble 7lvzopTxjOU unsplash

This is simple question but there are lots of factors driving it, so the answer is complex. I’ll explore this over my next few articles. First, I want to talk productivity, specifically labour productivity.

Read all

28 April 2025

Why Rules Alone Aren't Enough: Building Owners and the Culture of Passive Fire Protection

architecture

When we examine the roles of the stakeholders involved in the building process, the building owner stands out as having a significant level of responsibility. Yet, despite this, they often remain on the outside looking in. In this article, we’ll explore why this disconnect is problematic — and what can be done to bridge the gap.

Read all

28 April 2025

FAQs for Level Threshold Detailing

IMG 0536 Enhanced NR Edit 2000px

In today's blog post I cover some of the most common FAQs for detailing a fully complaint NZBC E2 level threshold solution.

Read all

28 April 2025

The Rising Pressure On Cost in Construction

calculator

Looking at our 2024 Specifier Insights research from a survey of 1,499 architects, designers and builders, we can see that cost is a growing concern. 

Read all

28 April 2025

Fire Protection in Motion: Seismic Fire-Rated Solutions for Joints and Isolators

Firefly Base Isolator and Titan

Elements that improve structural performance during seismic events also introduce significant fire safety vulnerabilities in a building’s fire compartmentation strategy. Gaps created for movement can act as open pathways for smoke and flame. Careful selection and specification of fire-resistant materials can mitigate this risk.

Read all

Designing Tiled Showers to Meet E3/AS2

wmai tiled shower guide image

A look at how to design tiled showers using penetration seals and water stops to prevent moisture from entering the wall cavity and subfloor.

Read all

27 April 2025

Poor Documentation for B1 and E2 is Slowing Down the Building Consent Process

barthelemy de mazenod se4NQY7 zSQ unsplash

Professor Anthony Hōete shares the results of ModelDocs — a BRANZ funded research programme that delves into NZ’s building consent process to seek behavioural transformation.

One of the key findings is that B1 and E2 represent over half of all RFI line items related to NZBC clauses. So, what can we do to reduce those RFIs?

Read all

26 April 2025

Three Key Ways We Can Speed Up the Building Consent Process

liam shaw yhFto6SaKf4 unsplash copy

Professor Anthony Hōete shares three recommendations from ModelDocs — a BRANZ funded research programme that delves into NZ’s building consent process to seek behavioural transformation.

What can LBPs, architects and BCOs do better to reduce consenting timeframes?

Read all

24 March 2025

Considering the Review of NZ Building Code Clause H1 Energy Efficiency

inaki del olmo NIJuEQw0RKg unsplash copy

In 2024 the Minister for Building and Construction, the Hon. Chris Penk, “… instructed MBIE to review the recently implemented H1 energy efficiency standards to ensure that the compliance costs were not unreasonable and were well balanced with the health and efficiency gains.”

Read all

24 March 2025

Specifying Drainage Solutions in Secure Locations

Paremoremo HCI PC SEC Drain 2000px

In secure units there are specific requirements for drainage fixtures, and the nature of the unit will determine the type of product selected. Words such as 'anti ligature' and 'tamper proof' are relative to the security requirement of the facility and will often work together to protect the occupant and staff from self harm or ability to use the receptacles for storing of items or use as weapons.

Read all

Get a free weekly digest of essential news

New and updated architectural products, design solutions, inspiration, technical advice and more when you sign up for EBOSS.