Feedback wanted on better protecting people and property from fire

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has commenced a review of Aotearoa New Zealand’s fire safety requirements in the Building Code. The review aims to address issues regarding clarity and effectiveness of current fire safety provisions to support more timely and consistent decision-making.

The Building Code plays an important role in protecting people from fire. It is essential that fire safety provisions in the Building Code achieve safe, healthy and durable buildings.

The discussion document out for public consultation is the first step in the review. The document – Building Code fire safety review discussion document – is intended to encourage in-depth feedback from the sector to help shape further work on options for change.

In development of the discussion document MBIE consulted and engaged with over one hundred industry bodies and organisations. Issues with fire safety regulation were identified across the Building Code, acceptable solutions and verification methods. Connections with other legislation (but not the legislation itself) is also in scope of the review and the issues identified span all building types.

The review opened for public comment on 23 October and runs until 5pm, Friday 6 December 2024. To read the discussion document and for guidance on giving feedback, go to our have your say page. 

Have your say: Building Code fire safety review 2024

Read the full press release from the Building and Construction Minister:

Changes to improve building fire safety(external link) – beehive.govt.nz