Previous determinations

Determinations are made by MBIE on matters of doubt or dispute to do with building work. Rulings are legally binding, but only in relation to each case.

Previous determinations may provide some useful guidance for those faced with similar problems, but note that individual circumstances may vary.

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2022/022: Regarding the decision to issue a notice to fix and whether a unit is a building

This determination considers whether the authority was correct in the exercise of its power of decision to issue a notice to fix for what the authority considers is building work that required a building consent. In order to make this determination I have considered whether a unit is a 'building' under section 8 of the Building Act 2004. The determination also considers whether the notice to fix was defective.

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2022/021: Regarding the notice to fix issued for the construction of a replacement garage without first obtaining a building consent

This determination considers whether the building consent authority was correct in the exercise of its power of decision to issue a notice to fix for a construction of a garage to replace an existing garage without first obtaining a building consent. This determination will turn on whether the building work to construct the garage is exempt under Schedule 1, clause 7 of the Building Act.

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2022/020: Regarding the issue of a notice to fix and the refusal to issue two discretionary exemptions under schedule 1(2)

This determination considers the authority's decision to issue a notice to fix for building work carried out in contravention of section 40 of the Building Act (building work not to be carried out without building consent). In deciding this, consideration is given to whether the building work falls within the exemption outlined in Schedule 1(7) of the Act. This determination also considers the authority's decision to refuse to issue two discretionary exemptions applications under Schedule 1(2) of the Act (exemption from the requirement to obtain a building consent.

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2022/019: Regarding the authority’s refusal to issue a code compliance certificate for stucco monolithic plaster cladding

This determination considers whether the authority was correct to refuse to issue a code compliance certificate because it considers the stucco monolithic plaster applied to the external walls of an extension of an existing dwelling does not comply with clauses E2 External moisture and B2 Durability of the Building Code.

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2022/018: Regarding a notice to fix issued for a relocated unit

This determination considers whether a unit is a building that is subject to the Building Act. It discusses the tests of 'immovability' and 'permanent or long-term occupation' in relation to a vehicle, and the requirements for a notice to fix.

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2022/017: Regarding the refusal to issue a code compliance certificate for weathertightness remedial work on a townhouse

Note: This determination is subject to appeal

This determination considers whether the authority was correct to refuse to issue a code compliance certificate for remedial recladding work. The determination considers whether the building work complies with clauses B2 Durability and E2 External moisture.

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2022/016: Whether building consent is required for a small unit prefabricated offsite

This determination considers an authority's proposed decision to require a building consent for prefabrication of a unit intended to be moved to another site. The determination discusses whether the unit is a 'building' in terms of the Building Act, the definition of 'building work' in the Act, and the exemption from the requirement to obtain building consent contained in clause 43 of Schedule 1 of the Act.

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2022/015: Regarding the compliance of a 1200mm high masonry swimming pool wall with Building Code Clause F4 Safety from falling

This determination considers the compliance of a 1200mm high masonry swimming pool wall with Building Code Clause F4 Safety from falling. This determination also considers whether to grant a modification of Clause F4.3.1, to permit a 1200mm change of level without a safety from falling barrier, in the circumstances of this case.

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2022/014: Authority’s decision not to issue a notice to fix for earthworks and a retaining wall

This determination considers whether the authority was correct to refuse to issue a notice to fix for site works that occurred over a period of years. The determination also considers the compliance of the work and status of the developer as a specified person.

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2022/013: Authority’s refusal to grant a building consent for the construction of a dwelling

This determination considers whether the authority was correct to refuse to grant a building consent. The determination considers whether sufficient information was included in the building consent application.

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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: