Auckland City acts on timber concerns

Auckland City will reject building consents involving a controversial timber treating agent until the Government rules on its effectiveness.

The move follows claims a treated timber product - T1.2 - that was accredited by the Building Industry Authority in April 2004 is not fit for the purpose it is being used for.

Auckland City has advised staff to reject building consent applications using this product until the Department of Building and Housing indicates where this product can be used.

Building inspectors will be requiring treatment certificates and, if necessary, testing of timber to ensure the level of treatment is adequate.

Bob de Leur, Auckland City's principal building officer, said: "The Department of Building and Housing has assured us that they will be undertaking an investigation into the issues that have been raised to determine whether there is a problem with the use of this product. We are waiting for that advice.

"We do not know how many homes in Auckland city are potentially affected as there are a variety of timber treatments on the market. We have a responsibility to homeowners in Auckland city and we have acted appropriately by putting these immediate measures in place," he said.

The council relies on accreditation certificates provided by the department when approving or declining building consents and stresses it is not involved in the accreditation process.



- HERALD ONLINE STAFF