IN THE KNOW —
Updates from the Building Performance Team New learning modules available to help you understand the Building Code A series of online learning modules has been developed by The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to help people understand the basics of the Building Code.
The modules are broken into sections focusing on The Building Code, Building Performance Requirements and Building Consent Compliance. They are between one and three minutes long, easy to use and come complete with an assessment at the end (they are short videos to watch, so you may need headphones).
They’re a great resource for any one new to the industry or as a refresher for those who are more experienced. To access the modules, visit www.building.govt.nz, press ‘Start learning’ and either log in as a guest or register for an account.
New building consent exemptions have been approved by the Government New building consent exemptions are being added to the Building Act. Building consents will no longer be needed for a number of new or expanded types of low-risk building work, like sleep-outs, sheds, carports, outdoor fireplaces and ground-mounted solar panels. The new exemptions will save building owners time and money, by not having to go to their local council for consent for common, low-risk building work. This reduction in building consents will also allow Councils to focus on building work that is higher-risk, helping to boost productivity.
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This package of new exemptions adds to the work that can already be done without a building consent, outlined in Schedule 1 of the Building Act. Some of the new exempt building work can be done without the help of a professional, while others require the involvement of a Chartered Professional Engineer or Licensed Building Practitioner.
