Building Code
The New Zealand Building Code — a set of minimum performance standards that all building work must meet, covering structure, fire safety, moisture, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
What is a Building Code?
The New Zealand Building Code is contained in Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations 1992, made under the Building Act 2004. It sets out the minimum performance standards for all building work in New Zealand, covering areas including structural stability, fire safety, access, moisture control, durability, energy efficiency, and services.
The Building Code is performance-based, meaning it specifies what a building must achieve (e.g. 'resist moisture from entering the building') rather than prescribing exactly how to achieve it. Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods published by MBIE provide approved ways to meet the code, but designers can propose alternative solutions if they can demonstrate compliance.
The Building Code has evolved significantly over time. Major changes followed the leaky building crisis (improved weathertightness requirements), the Canterbury earthquakes (updated seismic standards), and ongoing updates for energy efficiency and accessibility. Older buildings may not meet the current code — this is generally acceptable as long as the building met the code in force when it was built, unless major renovation triggers upgrade requirements.
Why It Matters for Due Diligence
Understanding the Building Code helps you assess whether building work has been done properly and what standards apply if you plan to renovate. Unconsented work that doesn't meet the code can be unsafe, uninsurable, and may need to be demolished or brought up to standard at your expense.
When reviewing a property, check that building work has consents and CCCs. If you're planning renovations, be aware that significant alterations may trigger requirements to upgrade other parts of the building to the current code — this can substantially increase project costs.
How to Check
Building consent and CCC records are available from the council and shown on the LIM report. The Building Code and Acceptable Solutions are available free online from the MBIE Building Performance website. Your architect, designer, or building inspector can advise on how the current code applies to specific building work or renovation plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my house need to meet the current Building Code?
An existing house needs to meet the code that was in force when it was built (or when consented work was done). You're not required to upgrade to the current code just because you own the property. However, if you do significant renovation work, the new work must meet the current code, and this may trigger upgrade requirements for connected building elements.
What building work doesn't need consent?
Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004 lists exempt work — this includes small-scale work like fences under 2.5 metres, retaining walls under certain heights, small decks, pergolas, and minor repairs. However, all building work — whether or not it needs consent — must still comply with the Building Code. If in doubt, check with your council.
Related Terms
Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)
GlossaryAn official council certificate confirming that completed building work meets the requirements of the building consent and the Building Code.
Weathertightness
GlossaryA building's ability to prevent water from entering the structure through its exterior envelope — the roof, walls, windows, and other external elements.
Earthquake-Prone Building
GlossaryA building assessed as having structural performance below 34% of the New Building Standard (NBS) for earthquake resistance, making it legally earthquake-prone under the Building Act 2004.
New Building Standard (NBS)
GlossaryA percentage rating that expresses an existing building's earthquake strength relative to the minimum standard required for a new building — 100% NBS means the building meets the current code for a new build.
Resource Consent
GlossaryPermission from the local council to carry out an activity that affects the environment, required under the Resource Management Act 1991.
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