Dates to remember

Last updated: 2 November 2023

Maintaining code - dates to remember

MBIE regularly updates the Building Code compliance pathways, building regulations, acceptable solutions, verification methods, guidance and information.

In recent years MBIE has consulted on proposed changes to the Building Code documents and announced the outcomes of the consultation within the same calendar year.

The most recent Building Code update in November 2023 saw changes in the acceptable solutions and verification methods for plumbing and drainage, removing hollow-core floors from B1/VM1, and changes to protection from fire including the introduction of interconnected smoke alarms in residential units and citing new standards for sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems and smoke control in air-handling systems.

Each change usually has a transition period of 12 months, however on occasion this varies depending on the nature and scale of the update.

B1 Structure

The changes to B1/VM1 take effect immediately and Amendment 20 can no longer be used from 2 November 2023.

Plumbing and Drainage

The changes to G12, G13 and E1 came into effect on 2 November 2023 with a 12 month transition period.

G12/AS1 requirements for lead in plumbing products - This portion of the document has a transition date extending to 1 September 2025.

Protection from fire

The changes to Acceptable Solutions C/AS1, C/AS2, F7/AS1, and Verification Method C/VM2 came into effect on 2 November 2023 with a 12 month transition period.

MBIE routinely consults on topics for the Building Code updates when they are ready. We are currently working through plans for future consultations and what topics will be included.

View all consultations, both current and closed - mbie.govt.nz

This information is published by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Chief Executive. It is a general guide only and, if used, does not relieve any person of the obligation to consider any matter to which the information relates according to the circumstances of the particular case. Expert advice may be required in specific circumstances. Where this information relates to assisting people: