Building code review 'could avoid another leaky homes fiasco'

A house under construction in Hamilton. Picture / Derek Flynn

The building industry today welcomed the Government's building code review saying it could help to avoid another "leaky home" fiasco.

Building Issues Minister Clayton Cosgrove today launched "Building for the 21st Century - Review of the Building Code" to set performance-based standards for building design and construction.

The first substantive review of the code since its introduction in 1991 will begin with the release of the public discussion document.

"The review will change what we build and the way we build, because we expect a lot more from our buildings than we did 15 years ago," Mr Cosgrove said.

"There have been significant advances in construction technologies and in our knowledge of building products and performance. A modern code must reflect that."

Construction Industry Council chairman John Pfahlert said the overhaul provided a big chance for home owners and prospective buyers to have their say on future construction standards.

"The Government's discussion paper...provides a rare opportunity for public input into the standards to be set for buildings and construction through the 21st Century," he said.

"Fortunately, the industry is well positioned to make suggestions that encompass improvements to construction to avoid such difficulties as leaky homes, and to recommend improvements that will enhance energy efficiency." Registered Master Builders Federation head Pieter Burghout agreed, saying the review was appropriate in light of the significant changes in the building industry over the past 15 years.

"We look forward to seeing where the Department of Building and Housing takes the code as a result of the review. Both consumer and industry feedback will be critical to getting the code right," he said.

- NZPA