Background
In mid-November 2008 the Frame and Truss Manufacturers Association of New Zealand (FTMA) released a letter to its members alleging the use of non-load bearing timber in some trusses and frames.
The letter also alleged that this practice may have been in use in the Auckland region for 18 months prior.
We investigated the alleged problem at the request of the Hon Maurice Williamson, Minister for Building and Construction. Our enquiries indicated it was a very localised and isolated issue.
We found evidence of non load-bearing timber used in frames and trusses in some new houses built in the Auckland region and Whangarei since April 2007. We considered the life safety issue or danger of buildings collapsing from this use of non load-bearing timber to be low.
The following guidance was provided for building consent authorities to deal with any suspected incorrect use of non load-bearing timber.