The Department is introducing changes today to key Building Code documents dealing with Structure (Code clause B1) and External Moisture (Code clause E2). The changes bring the documents in line with the latest Standards, reflect the latest studies and research, respond to changes in building practices and broaden the range of solutions available.
Important documents that the majority of designers and builders use day-to-day, like NZS 3604 and Acceptable Solution E2/AS1, are affected by the changes, which address foundations, structure and the building envelope.
Other documents relate to steel-framed housing, seismic performance of engineering systems in buildings, barriers, and the weathertightness of concrete and concrete masonry construction.
If you work with any of these materials or building elements, you need to be informed about these changes, and read the attached questions and answers about them.
The changes take effect today, on 1 August 2011, with a transition period through to 31 January 2012. During the transition period there will be two Acceptable Solutions or Verification Methods – the old document and the revised one. From 1 February 2012 only the new versions apply.
The Department is planning education on the changes during the transition period.
Consultation in November 2010 to February 2011 drew broad support for the proposals. We thank all those who took the time to make submissions on the proposals, and contributed to their final development.
We urge building officials and practitioners to become familiar with the new versions of these Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods, which can be downloaded at www.dbh.govt.nz/compliance-documents. The barrier guidance document will also be available shortly on the Department’s website (www.dbh.govt.nz).
For online services, and previous versions of Building Controls Update, visit our website www.dbh.govt.nz. To ask a question or get more information, call us on 0800 242 243 or email info@dbh.govt.nz.
This seminar will be focusing on a number of significant changes announced in the documents supporting two key Building Code clauses – B1 Structure and E2 External moisture. The B1 changes incorporate learning from the Canterbury earthquakes, and for E2, a technical update to reflect recent research and changes in building practices.
