On 31 January 2019, MBIE released new guidance on the performance of external wall cladding systems. This comes in response to fires in high-rise buildings internationally and is designed to be used as a temporary solution while MBIE incorporates changes into the Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods of the NZBC. 

Here is the update from MBIE: 

Significant high-rise fire events globally have increased our understanding of how fire spreads within modern facade systems.

Working with industry experts, MBIE has developed guidance about how external cladding systems should be tested for fire spread performance. The guidance is a temporary solution as we progress towards incorporating the appropriate changes into the Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods.

Meanwhile, the guidance will help the industry to achieve the compliance requirements of the Building Code, taking into account the overall risks associated with the building use, occupant vulnerability, escape height and fire safety systems in the building.

MBIE would like to thank BRANZ and Auckland Council for providing their expertise in developing the guidance.

Read the new guidance on fire performance of external wall cladding systems on the building performance website.