Are you ready for the Acceptable solution changes?

The end of the transition period for many Building compliance document updates is just around the corner.

The changes mainly relate to fire and plumbing Acceptable Solutions

Most of the Building Code updates introduced in November 2023 had a 12-month transition period that ends on 1 November.

How does this effect you?

When you are altering an existing dwelling, the Building Act section 112 requires you to upgrade the means of escape from fire as near as reasonably practical to full compliance with the building code. C/AS1 and F7/AS1 has changed the requirements for smoke alarms. They now require interconnected smoke alarms as the minimum fire safety system in each household unit. These will now need to comply with NZS4514:2021 https://www.standards.govt.nz/product-download/download/475064/0?mediaTypeId=1eb14638-84ac-eb11-8236-000d3a6b0a61&formatId=1bd170ba-2514-eb11-a812-000d3a6aa268&intlStandard=

All application made from 1 November 2024 will be expected to comply with section 112 and NZS4514:2021. The exception would be if there are specific circumstances that mean the advantages of an interconnected system don’t outweigh the sacrificed and difficulties of installing one.

For further information the below links may be useful.

BRANZ Guideline e-newsletter View here

C/AS1 C1-C6 Protection from Fire Acceptable Solution C/AS1 (effective 2 November 2023) | 2nd edition

MBIE section 112 information Altering an existing building | Building Performance