In April, the Building Performance team published a checklist of the proposed conditions that must be met when using the small standalone dwellings building consent exemption. This exemption is expected to be in force by early 2026.

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?

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.

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.

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

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. 

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.

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

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?

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?