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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2018/002: Decision to issue a notice to fix for a retaining wall

This determination considers whether a retaining wall without a barrier at the top complies with Clause F4 Safety from falling.  The determination also discusses the interpretation of section 42A(2)(c) of the Building Act and whether the building work to construct a retaining wall was exempt from the requirement to obtain a building consent.

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2017/077: Whether retaining walls require barriers to comply with Clause F4

This determination considers whether the retaining walls without barriers would comply with Clause F4 Safety from falling. The determination also discusses whether the building work to erect the barriers was exempt from the need for a building consent under Schedule 1.

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2017/063: Whether a barrier is required for a retaining wall to a residential property

This determination considers whether a barrier is required to a retaining wall in order to comply with Clause F4 safety from falling, and the authority's intention to issue a notice to fix. The determination also discusses whether building work completed after the code compliance certificate was issued required building consent or whether it was exempt.

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2016/45: Regarding whether a safety net will satisfy Clause F4 Safety from falling, to a timber walkway along the shoreline

This determination considers a raised pedestrian walkway located adjacent a harbour, and the compliance of a horizontal safety net proposed by the authority as a means of satisfying Clause F4 Safety from falling.

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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: