LIQUID INDUSTRIAL WASTE C o n t e n t s G14 / V M1 & A S1

New Zealand Building Code

Handbook
Third Edition
Prepared by the Department of Building and Housing

This Compliance Document is prepared by the Department of Building

and Housing. The Department of Building and Housing is a Government
Department established under the State Sector Act 1988.

Enquiries about the content of this document should be directed to:

Department of Building and Housing

PO Box 10-729, Wellington.
Telephone 0800 242 243
Fax 04 494 0290
Email: info@dbh.govt.nz

Compliance Documents are available from www.dbh.govt.nz

© Department of Building and Housing 2010

This Compliance Document is protected by Crown copyright, unless indicated otherwise.

The Department of Building and Housing administers the copyright in this document.
You may use and reproduce this document for your personal use or for the purposes
of your business provided you reproduce the document accurately and not in an
inappropriate or misleading context. You may not distribute this document to others
or reproduce it for sale or profit.

The Department of Building and Housing owns or has licences to use all images and
trademarks in this document. You must not use or reproduce images and trademarks
featured in this document for any purpose (except as part of an accurate reproduction
of this document) unless you first obtain the written permission of the Department
of Building and Housing.
Handbook: Document History

Date Alterations

First published July 1992

Third edition 25 May 2007

Amendment 11 Published 31 July 2010 pp. 6–8, 11 Preface

Effective 30 September 2010 pp. 17–78, Code Clauses – amended and reformatted
pp. 79–104A, References – amended and reprinted
pp. 105–148f, Definitions – amended and reprinted
pp. 150–158, 161–164, 168–170, 172, 176–178, 181,
184–185 187, 189, 191, 193, 196–199, 201,
204–208, Index

Note: Page numbers relate to the document at the time of Amendment and may not match page numbers in current document.

Document Status
The most recent version of this document, as detailed in the Document History, is approved by the Chief Executive
of the Department of Building and Housing. It is effective from 30 September 2010 and supersedes all previous versions
of this document.
People using this document should check for amendments on a regular basis. The Department of Building
and Housing may amend any part of any document at any time. Up-to-date versions of documents are available
from www.dbh.govt.nz
Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Preface
1.0 Introduction 2.0 Building control framework

1.1 This preface provides an introduction The regulation and performance of buildings
to building controls in New Zealand. This sits under the following three-part framework.
section shows the relationship between the • The Building Act, which contains the
New Zealand Building Code (the Building Code) provisions for regulating building work.
and various other Provisions that ensure buildings
• The various Building Regulations, which
in New Zealand are safe and healthy to use.
contain prescribed forms, list specified
1.2 The preface provides a convenient user systems, define ‘change the use’ and
reference. However, legal interpretation must ‘moderate earthquake’, and set out the
be based on the actual wording of the Building rate of levy and fees for determinations.
Act 2004 (the Building Act), and amendments
• The Building Code, contained in Schedule 1
and respective Building Regulations.
of the Building Regulations 1992, which sets
performance standards all new building work
must meet, and covers aspects such as
stability, fire safety, access, moisture, safety
of users, services and facilities, and energy
efficiency.
The pyramid below illustrates the legislation
that forms the building control framework
governed by the Building Act.

Building Act 2004

Building Regulations

The New Zealand Building Code

Objective Functional requirement Performance

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07


 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

2.1 The Building Act 2004 • to ensure buildings are designed,

constructed and able to be used in ways
The Building Act provides the mandatory
that promote sustainable development.
framework for the building control system
to be followed when undertaking building 2.1.2 Principles
work in New Zealand. It applies to all:
The Building Act does not contain an equivalent
• buildings including Crown buildings, except to section 47 of the Building Act 1991 (the
those which may be exempt for reasons of former Act), which contained guidance on how
national security a territorial authority should exercise its powers.
• components in a building, including Under section 4 of the Building Act (section 6
plumbing, electrical and mechanical under the former Act), principles to be applied
installations. in performing functions or duties, or exercising
The Building Act should be read taking into powers under the Building Act, now have
account the changes under the Building greater importance. Section 4 should be taken
Amendment Act 2005 and any subsequent into account when performing functions, duties
amendments (copies are on www.legislation. or exercising powers relating to the granting
govt.nz). of waivers or modifications of the Building
Code, and the adoption and review of policies
2.1.1 Purpose on dangerous, earthquake-prone or insanitary
The Building Act aims to improve control of and buildings.
encourage better practices in building design The Building Act re-states many of the
and construction to provide greater assurance principles outlined in the former Act, and makes
to consumers. explicit some of the implied principles of that
This means: legislation (for example, that innovation is
important). However, some significant new
• more clarity on the standards we expect
concepts have been introduced, including a
buildings to meet
particular focus on the household unit, as well
• more guidance on how these standards as considering the whole-of-life costs of
can be met building work.
• more certainty that capable people are The following is a summary of the Building
undertaking building design, construction Act principles.
and inspection
• Household units have an important role
• more scrutiny in the building consent and in the lives of the people who use them,
inspection process and are accorded a special focus.
• better protection for homeowners through • The Building Code as it relates to household
the introduction of mandatory warranties. units is important, and household units need
The purpose of the Building Act is: to comply with the Building Code.
• to provide for regulation of building work • Maintenance requirements of household
• to ensure that people can use buildings units need to be reasonable, and owners
safely without endangering their health of household units need to be aware of the
maintenance requirements of their
• to ensure people can escape a building
household units.
in case of fire
• Harmful effects on human health resulting
• to ensure buildings have attributes that
from the use of building methods, products,
contribute appropriately to the health,
design or building work need to be prevented
physical independence and wellbeing
or minimised.
of the people who use them

 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

• Buildings need to be durable. 2.1.3 Application

• Special traditional and cultural aspects The Building Act applies to:
of the intended use of a building need • building construction, alteration, demolition
to be recognised. or removal
• The whole-of-life costs of a building need • maintenance of a building’s specified
to be considered. systems, such as lifts and fire protection
• Standards are important in achieving installations.
compliance with the Building Code for The Building Act does not cover:
building design and construction.
• planning and resource management
• Innovation in methods of building design
• occupational safety and health.
and construction is important.
• People who undertake a rescue operation 2.1.4 Structure
or firefighting in a building need to be able The Building Act has five parts.
to expect a reasonable level of protection
Part 1: Contains the purpose and principles
from injury or illness while doing so.
of the Building Act, together with an overview,
• The extent and effects of the spread commencement dates for various Provisions
of fire need to be limited to protect other and definitions. These sections provide an
household units and other property. important reference when reading and
• Other property needs to be protected interpreting the Building Act.
from physical damage resulting from Part 2 (and Schedules 1 and 2): Outlines
the construction, use and demolition matters relating to the Building Code and
of a building. building control (such as building consents),
• People with disabilities need to be able including requirements of building work,
to enter and carry out normal activities requirements for the use of buildings,
and processes in a building. Provisions for certain categories of buildings
and Provisions for the safety of dams.
• Buildings of significant cultural, historical
or heritage value need to be preserved. Part 3: Sets out the functions, duties
and powers of the Chief Executive of the
• Energy use in buildings needs to be efficient.
Department of Building and Housing
• The use of renewable sources of energy (the Department), territorial authorities,
needs to be encouraged. regional authorities and building consent
• Material use in buildings needs to be efficient authorities. It also deals with the accreditation
and sustainable. and registration of building consent authorities,
• Water use in buildings needs to be efficient accreditation of dam owners, and product
and promote water conservation. certification.

• Waste generated during the construction Part 4 (and Schedule 3): Covers matters
process needs to be reduced. relating to the licensing and disciplining of
building practitioners.
Part 5 (and Schedule 4): Describes
miscellaneous matters, including offences
and criminal proceedings, implied terms
of contracts, regulation-making powers,
amendments to other enactments and the
repeal of the former Act, and the transitional
Provisions from the former Act to the
Building Act.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07


 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

2.2 Building Regulations 6. Building (Accreditation of Building

Consent Authorities) Regulations 2006
Building Regulations are made under and in
accordance with the Building Act. 7. Building (Consent Authority
Accreditation Fees) Regulations 2007
A number of regulations have been made under
the Building Act. Currently (as at May 2007) 8. Building (Designation of Building work
there are seven sets of regulations. Licence Classes) Order 2007
9. Building (Design Work Declared to be
1. Building Regulations 1992, made under
Building Work) Order 2007
the former Act and which include the
Building Code. These regulations have been 10. Building Practitioners (Licensing Fees
amended by the Building (Forms) and Levy) Regulations 2007
Regulations 2004 so that only certain parts 11. Building (Registration of Building
remain in force. Parts still in force are: Consent Authorities) Regulations 2007
Schedule 1 (Building Code), Regulation 3, 12. Building (Infringement Offences, Fees,
Forms 16 & 17 (and Regulation 4 and and Forms) Regulations 2007
Schedule 2 where they relate to
13. Building Practitioners (Register of
these forms).
Licensed Building Practitioners)
2. Building (Forms) Regulations 2004, Regulations 2008
as amended by the Building (Forms) 14. Building (Dam Safety) Regulations 2008
Amendment Regulations 2005, which
15. Building Practitioners (Complaints and
prescribes forms to be used under the
Disciplinary Procedures) Regulations 2008
Building Act.
16. Building (Product Certification)
3. Building (Specified Systems, Change
Regulations 2008
the Use, and Earthquake-prone Buildings)
17. Building (Building Consent Authority
Regulations 2005, as amended by the
Transition) Order 2008
Building (Specified Systems, Change the
Use, and Earthquake-Prone Buildings) 18. Building (National Multiple-use Approval)
Amendment Regulations 2005. These Regulations 2009
regulations outline and define the 19. Building (Minor Variations) Regulations
following terms. 2009
• Specified systems – the building systems 20. Building (Designation of Building Work
that must be listed on compliance schedules Licensing Classes) Order 2010
and are subject to specific inspection and 21. Building Practitioners (Licensing Fees
maintenance procedures. Schedule 1 and Levy) Regulations 2010
provides the list of specified systems. 22. Building Practitioners (Register of
• Change the use – to determine when Licensed Building Practitioners) Amend 11
a change in a building’s use will require Regulations 2010 Sep 2010

upgrading to meet certain requirements Note: these regulations can be found

of the Building Act. Schedule 2 determines at www.legislation.govt.nz
the use of all or parts of buildings.
• Moderate earthquake – to define 2.3 The New Zealand Building Code
a moderate earthquake in relation
The Building Code is contained in Schedule 1
to a building.
of the Building Regulations 1992. The Building
4. Building (Fee for Determinations) Code contains compulsory rules for all new
Regulations 2005 building work.
5. Building Levy Order 2005

 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

2.3.1 Content 2.3.2 Structure

The Building Code sets out performance criteria The Building Code consists of two preliminary
that building work must meet. It covers aspects clauses and 35 technical clauses. Each technical
such as structural stability, fire safety, access, clause has three levels that describe the
moisture control, durability, services and requirements for the clause and is listed below.
facilities, and energy efficiency.
1. Objective Social objectives the building
The Building Code does not prescribe how work must achieve.
should be done, but states how completed
2. Functional requirement Functions the
building work and its parts must perform.
building must perform to meet the Objective.
An advantage of a performance-based Building
3. Performance The performance criteria the
Code is flexibility. It contains no prescriptive
building must achieve. By meeting the
requirements stipulating that certain products
performance criteria, the Objective and
or designs must be used. This flexibility allows
Functional requirement can be achieved.
developments and innovation in building design,
technology and systems.

Amend 11
Sep 2010

Building Act 2004

Building Regulations

The New Zealand Building Code

Objective Functional requirement Performance

Compliance Documents Alternative solutions

Comparison to Compliance Document

Comparison to document
Energy Work Certificate

– Technical information
Acceptable Solutions
Verification Methods

Product Certification

In-Service History
– Tests /research
Determination

– Standard
NZS 4121

These paths are deemed to meet the performance requirements Proposed work in this category
of the Building Code that they cover must demonstrate compliance with
the performance requirements of the
Building Code to the satisfaction
of a building consent authority

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010


 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

3.0 Compliance paths For example, the Compliance Document for

Clause B1 of the Building Code has two
Compliance with the Building Code Verification Methods and three Acceptable
can be demonstrated using various pathways. Solutions.
Understanding the New Zealand building control
Verification Methods and Acceptable Solutions
framework will help a building consent applicant
are usually referred to by their Building Code
decide which path is most suitable when
clauses and unique identification numbers.
designing and constructing building work.
Some examples are listed below.
The diagram below illustrates the hierarchy
• The Acceptable Solutions for Clause E2
of New Zealand building controls, including
External Moisture are known as E2/AS1
the various compliance paths. Amend 11
and E2/AS2. Sep 2010
The top three tiers of the pyramid (the Building
• The Acceptable Solution for Clause G4
Act and Building Regulations) show mandatory
Ventilation is known as G4/AS1.
building legislation that must be followed, as
• The Acceptable Solution for Clause G1
explained in the previous section.
Personal Hygiene is known as G1/AS1.
The rest of the diagram shows various paths
• The Verification Methods for Clause B1
that may be used to demonstrate compliance Amend 11
Structure are known as B1/VM1 and B1/VM4. Sep 2010
with the Building Code. Compliance with the
Building Code must be demonstrated using one 3.1.1 Verification Methods
or more of the paths. The applicant can choose Verification Methods are tests or calculation
which path(s) to follow. methods that prescribe one way to comply
With the exception of alternative solutions, with the Building Code. Verification Methods
the paths illustrated on the previous page must can include:
be accepted by the building consent authority • calculation methods: using recognised
as meeting the performance requirements analytical methods and mathematical models
of the Building Code. These pathways are
• laboratory tests: using tests (sometimes to
discussed below.
destruction) on prototype components and
systems
3.1 Compliance Documents
• tests-in-situ: which may involve examination
Compliance Documents provide details for
of plans and verification by test, where
construction that, if followed, result in compliance
compliance with specified numbers,
with the Building Code. They are published by
dimensions or locations is required (non-
the Department. (Note: Compliance Documents
destructive tests, such as pipe pressure
were previously known as Approved Documents,
tests, are also included).
and were published by the former Building
Industry Authority.) 3.1.2 Acceptable Solutions
A design that complies with Compliance These are simple step-by-step instructions
Documents must be accepted by a building that show one way to comply with the
consent authority as complying with the Building Code.
Building Code.
There is one Compliance Document for each 3.2 Product certification
of the 35 technical clauses in the Building Code. The Building Act contains provisions for a
Each Compliance Document contains at least voluntary product certification scheme
a Verification Method or an Acceptable that will enable product manufacturers
Solution, and usually has both. However, some to have their products certified as meeting
Compliance Documents have more than one nominated Performance requirements of the
Verification Method or Acceptable Solution. Building Code.

 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Building products or methods that are used in 3.6 Alternative solutions

accordance with a product certificate as provided
An alternative solution is a building solution that
by section 269 of the Building Act must be
differs, in part or wholly, from the solutions
accepted as complying with the Building Code.
offered by the Compliance Documents (an
Acceptable Solution or Verification Method),
3.3 Energy work certificate but achieves compliance with the performance
Energy work is defined as gasfitting work or requirements of the Building Code to the
prescribed electrical work. An energy work satisfaction of the building consent authority.
certificate certifies that energy work complies There may be a number of reasons for the use
with either the Electricity Act 1992 or the of an alternative solution.
Gas Act 1992.
• There may not be a Compliance Document
An energy work certificate must be accepted for the proposed construction, for example,
as establishing compliance with the relevant if no Compliance Document is available
Performance requirements of the Building Code. for on-site effluent disposal.
• The building work may incorporate unusual
3.4 New Zealand Standard NZS 4121 design features that fall outside the scope
Section 119 of the Building Act specifies that of a Compliance Document.
NZS 4121, the code of practice for design for Whatever the reason for using an alternative
access and use of buildings by persons with solution, the Building Code, being performance-
disabilities (and any modification of that Standard), based, allows for innovation and applicants have
is to be taken as a Compliance Document. the freedom to propose an innovative solution.
Refer to 2.3 ‘The New Zealand Building Code’.
3.5 Determinations

A determination is a binding decision made 3.7 Producer statements

by the Department. It provides a way of solving A producer statement is a statement supplied
disputes or answering questions relating to the by or on behalf of an applicant for a building
Building Code and territorial authority/building consent, or by or on behalf of a person
consent authority/regional authority decisions who has been granted a building consent.
under the Building Act. It is a statement that certain work will be,
A range of matters can be determined, including: or has been, carried out in accordance with
certain technical specifications.
• whether a building or building work complies
with the Building Code Producer statements were introduced by
the former Act and are no longer expressly
• a building consent authority’s decision
referred to in the Building Act. A building
on a building consent, a notice to fix,
consent authority may, at their discretion,
a code compliance certificate (CCC) or a
accept and consider a producer statement as
compliance schedule
part of the plans or specifications for a building
• a territorial authority’s decision to issue consent. This will assist the building consent
a building consent subject to a waiver authority in deciding whether it is satisfied
or modification on reasonable grounds the provisions of the
• a territorial authority’s decision on a Building Code will be met if the building work
certificate of acceptance, a compliance is completed in accordance with the plans and
schedule, a notice to fix, or a certificate specifications. A building consent authority
for public use should have a formal procedure or policy in
place for the use and consideration of producer
• a regional authority’s or territorial authority’s
statements, especially if a producer
exercise or failure to exercise its powers
statement(s) will be required to prove building
under the Building Act.
work complies with a building consent.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07


 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

4.0 The parties and their • issuing project information memoranda

responsibilities • granting waivers or modifications of the
Building Code (not including waivers or
Five principal parties are responsible for
modifications relating to access and facilities
ensuring that buildings are safe and sanitary
for people with disabilities)
in line with the Building Act.
• issuing certificates of acceptance
4.1 The Department of Building • issuing certificates for public use
and Housing (the Department) • determining the extent to which buildings
The Department has a range of statutory must comply with the Building Code if they
responsibilities for building and housing, and are altered, or their use is changed or where
administers New Zealand’s building legislation. there is a specified intended life change
The Department’s building control functions • enforcing the provisions relating to annual
include: building warrants of fitness
• advising the Minister for Building and • issuing certain notices provided for under
Construction on matters relating to building the Building Act
control
• keeping records
• administering and reviewing the
• ensuring dangerous, insanitary and
Building Code
earthquake prone buildings are identified
• producing and maintaining Compliance and appropriate action taken to remove any
Documents that specify prescriptive danger or insanitary condition
methods as a means of complying with
• amending compliance schedules
the Building Code
• carrying out other functions and duties
• providing information, guidance, and advice
specified in the Building Act.
on building controls to all sectors of the
building industry and consumers
4.3 Building consent authorities
• implementing, administering and monitoring
Building consent authorities are responsible for:
a system of regulatory controls for a vibrant
sector with skilled building professionals • issuing building consents
• making determinations, or technical rulings, • inspecting building work for which they
on matters of interpretation, doubt or granted a building consent
dispute. • issuing notices to fix
• issuing code compliance certificates
4.2 Territorial authorities
• issuing compliance schedules and amending
Territorial authorities are responsible for
them where the specified systems are
enforcing the Building Act, Regulations and
affected by building work
the Building Code in their areas of jurisdiction.
• carrying out other functions and duties
They are responsible for:
specified in the Building Act.
• gaining accreditation as a building consent
authority
• registering as a building consent authority
• performing the functions of a building
consent authority

10 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

4.4 Regional authorities to perform to the performance standards

Regional authorities are responsible for: • supplying the annual building warrant of
• performing the functions of a building fitness, if applicable
consent authority to the extent that those • notifying the territorial authority if a change
functions relate to dams of use, extension of life, or subdivision is
• considering and approving dam proposed
classifications • paying any fees as required by the
• considering and approving dam safety Building Act.
assurance programmes
4.6 Licensed building practitioners
• administering the Building Act, relating to
dam classifications, dam safety assurance The Building Act set up a licensed building
programmes and dam compliance practitioners (LBP) scheme to promote,
certificates recognise and support professional skills
and behaviour in the building industry. The
• enforcing provisions of the Building Code
scheme has seven licence classes covering
and the Building Act and regulations that
designers, site supervisors and trades people,
relate to dams
such as carpenters, roofers, plasterers and
• adopting a policy on dangerous dams. bricklayers.

To become licensed, building practitioners must

4.5 Building owners
show they meet the standard for the licence
Building owners are responsible for: class appropriate for them. Details of LBPs
• detailing work proposals on plans and are held on a public register at
specifications, including proposals for the www.dbh.govt.nz/lbp-register
inspection and routine maintenance of the Once licensed, LBPs are responsible for
specified systems for the purposes of the notifying territorial authorities of breaches of
compliance schedule (if applicable) building consents.
• applying for building consents
From March 2012, it is expected that restricted
(and amendments to building consents)
building work on houses and small-medium
and project information memoranda
sized apartment buildings will only be able to
• constructing buildings in accordance with be carried out or supervised by LBPs.
the ’approved plans and specifications’ Restricted building work is design and building
• organising inspections at given stages as work that is critical to the integrity of a house or
building work progresses small-medium sized apartment building. It will
cover aspects of the primary structure, external
• collecting energy work certificates
moisture management and fire design.
• applying for a code compliance certificate
From March 2012:
as soon as any work carried out under a
building consent granted to them is • any plans and specifications containing
completed restricted building work (relating to
design work) must be accompanied by a
• maintaining buildings in a safe and
memorandum issued by the LBP who carried
sanitary manner
out or supervised the design work, stating
• ensuring any specified systems in their that the design work complies with the
building are performing and will continue Building Code
Amend 11
Sep 2010

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

11
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

• if an application for a building consent relates Management Act 1991, prior to any work
to restricted building work, the names of commencing on the project. For example,
the LBPs carrying out or supervising that a PIM might include the fact that the height
work must be given to the building consent of a building may contravene a rule in the
authority in the application (if known) or District Plan, meaning that before work
once the work commences, or when commences, a separate resource consent
the application for the code compliance is required from the territorial authority
certificate is made. planning unit.
The most up-to-date information on the LBP An application for a building consent is deemed
Amend 11
Sep 2010 scheme is at www.dbh.govt.nz/lbp to include an application for a PIM, unless one
has been previously issued for the project and
4.7 Past building control parties this is supplied with the building consent
application. In most cases, PIMs and building
4.7.1 The Building Industry Authority consents are applied for in a single application.
The Building Industry Authority (the Authority) They will be processed as separate applications,
was a Crown entity, established under the but may be issued separately or jointly.
former Act as the sole regulatory authority If the application for a PIM affects a registered
for building controls in New Zealand. The historic place, historic area, wahi tapu, or wahi
introduction of the Building Act 2004 has seen tapu area, and a PIM has not been issued for
the dissolution of the Authority and transfer of the building work to which the application
its responsibilities to the Department. applies, then the territorial authority must notify
the New Zealand Historic Places Trust within
4.7.2 Building certifier
five days after receiving the application.
A building certifier was a person approved
If the territorial authority considers a
by the Authority under the former Act to issue
development contribution under the Local
building certificates with respect to specific
Government Act 2002 is payable by the owner,
provisions of the Building Code. A building
it may attach a notice (Form 3) that advises the
certifier may have been employed by a building
applicant that a code compliance certificate will
owner as an alternative to using the territorial
not be issued until the development
authority for checking technical proposals and
contribution is paid.
performing inspections. Building certifiers are
not provided for under the Building Act except
5.2 Building consents (sections 40 to 52)
for certain transitional arrangements.
A building consent is the formal approval, under
5.0 Building compliance provisions section 49 of the Building Act, permitting an
applicant to undertake building work in
accordance with the plans and specifications
5.1 Project information memoranda
approved by the building consent authority.
(sections 31 to 39)
Building work is the construction, alteration,
A project information memorandum (PIM) demolition or removal of a building and includes
provides information known to the territorial sitework.
authority/regional authority about land, and
A person cannot carry out building work
requirements of the Building Act and other
except in accordance with a building consent.
Acts that might be relevant to proposed building
There are some exemptions (see sections 41
work. A PIM is specific to the site and project.
and 43 and Schedule 1 of the Building Act),
A PIM is a legal document and may have but section 17 still requires building work to be
a notice attached to it requiring the owner carried out in accordance with the Building
to obtain other approvals or consents required Code, even if no building consent is required.
by other legislation, such as the Resource

12 30 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

5.2.1 Alterations (Section 112) See Regulations 5 and 6 of the Building

Where proposed building work involves an (Specified Systems, Change the Use, and
alteration to an existing building, the consent Earthquake-Prone Buildings) Regulations 2005.
must not be granted unless the building An owner of a building must give written notice
consent authority is satisfied that all new to the territorial authority/regional authority if
building work complies with the Building Code they propose to change the use of a building.
and: Where the owner proposes to change the use
• the altered building will comply as nearly of a building to one or more household units,
as is reasonably practicable with the Building where household units did not exist before,
Code provisions for means of escape from they must obtain written notice from the
fire and access and facilities for people with territorial authority. This must state that the
disabilities, and territorial authority is satisfied, on reasonable
• the altered building will continue to comply grounds, that the building, in its new use, will
with the other provisions of the Building comply as nearly as is reasonably practicable,
Code to at least the same extent as before with the Building Code in all respects (usually
the alteration. through the issue of a building consent).

However, a territorial authority may allow the For any other change of use proposal, the
alteration of an existing building without owner must get written notice from the
complying with provisions of the Building Code territorial authority/regional authority, stating
specified by the territorial authority, if the that the authority is satisfied, on reasonable
territorial authority is satisfied that: grounds, that the building, in its new use, will
comply, as nearly as is reasonably practicable,
• if the building were required to comply with
with every provision of the Building Code that
the relevant provisions of the Building Code,
relates to either or both of the following
the alterations would not take place, and
matters:
• the alteration will result in improvements to
• means of escape from fire, protection of
attributes of the building that relate to means
other property, sanitary facilities, structural
of escape from fire or access and facilities
performance, and fire-rating performance
for persons with disabilities, and
• access and facilities for people with
• the improvements mentioned above
disabilities (if this is a requirement under
outweigh any detriment that is likely to arise
section 118 of the Building Act).
as a result of the building not complying with
the relevant provisions of the Building Code. The territorial authority/regional authority must
also be satisfied that the building will continue
5.2.2 Change of use (sections 114 and 115) to comply with the other provisions of the
Uses of buildings are defined in Schedule 2 Building Code to at least the same extent as
of the Building (Specified Systems, Change before the change of use.
the Use, and Earthquake-Prone Buildings)
5.2.3 Extension of life (sections 114 and 116)
Regulations 2005.
Where a building with a specified intended life
A change of use arises when two criteria
is issued with a building consent that is subject
are met. The first criterion is that a building’s
to the condition that the building be altered
use must change from one use in Schedule 2
before the end of its life, an ‘extension of life’
to a different use in Schedule 2. The second
can be obtained.
criterion is the result of that change (first
criterion) means the requirements for An owner of a building must give written notice
compliance with the Building Code for the to the territorial authority/regional authority if it
new use are additional to, or more onerous proposes to extend the life of a building.
than, the requirements for the old use.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

13
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

The territorial authority/regional authority can The most recent version of NZS 4121 Code
only give its consent to the extension of life of Practice for Design for Access and Use
if it is satisfied that: of Buildings by Persons with Disabilities
• the building has been altered in accordance is to be taken as a Compliance Document.
with the original condition
5.3 Code compliance certificate
• the alteration complies with section 112
(sections 91 to 95)
of the Building Act (Alterations).
A code compliance certificate (CCC) is a
5.2.4 Subdivision (sections 114 and 116A) formal statement, issued under section 95
An owner of a building must give written of the Building Act, which states that building
notice to the territorial authority if it proposes work carried out under a building consent
to subdivide land in a manner that affects a application complies with that building consent.
building. A CCC provides assurance to the owner and
The territorial authority can only issue a subsequent property owners that the approved
certificate under section 224(f) (relating to cross plans and specifications have been followed.
lease, company lease, and unit titles) of the A CCC is not issued until all building work
Resource Management Act 1991 for the has been completed as per the plans and
purpose of giving effect to a subdivision specifications submitted with the building
affecting a building or part of a building, if it is consent application.
satisfied that the building will comply as nearly A CCC must be applied for after all building
as reasonably practicable with every provision work carried out under a building consent
of the Building Code that relates to one or more granted to the owner is completed.
of the following.
An application for a CCC where the building
• Means of escape from fire work was carried out under a consent granted
• Access and facilities for people with under the former Act must be considered and
disabilities determined as if the Building Act had not been
• Protection of other property passed. However, section 43(2) of the former
Act must be read as if a CCC may only be
The building must also continue to comply with
issued if the territorial authority is satisfied that
other provisions of the Building Code to at least
the building work complies with the Building
the same extent as it did before the application
Code that applied at the time the building
for subdivision was made.
consent was granted.
5.2.5 Access for persons with disabilities
(sections 117 to 120 and Schedule 2) 5.4 Certificates of acceptance
(sections 96 to 99)
Any building (including parts of a building
such as a driveway) that is open to the public, Certificates of acceptance were introduced
whether or not they are charged for entry, by the Building Act. The certificate confirms
must have reasonable and adequate provision that, to the extent an inspection was able to
for access, parking and sanitary facilities for be carried out, the building work complies with
people with disabilities who may be expected the Building Code. A certificate of acceptance
to work or visit that building and carry out therefore has some similarities to a CCC in
normal activities and processes in that building. that it will provide some verification for a
building owner, or future building owner,
that all or part of the work is compliant.

14 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Preface NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

A certificate of acceptance can be obtained Some examples of where notices could be

in situations where: issued include:
• work has been done without a building • carrying out building work other than
consent when one should have been in accordance with a building consent
obtained • displaying an incorrect building warrant
• a building consent authority or building of fitness
certifier is unable or refuses to issue a CCC • changing the use of a building without
• verification is required of urgent building notifying the territorial authority or regional
work carried out under section 42 of the authority.
Building Act.
A certificate of acceptance can also be 5.6 Compliance schedules
used in limited circumstances in relation (sections 100 to 107)
to section 363B. A compliance schedule lists specified systems
A certificate of acceptance is based on within a building. The compliance schedule
verification with the Building Code that was in for a building must identify which specified
place at the time of application. It is not based systems are present, the performance
on what was in place at the time a building standards for those systems, and how those
consent was granted, or should have been systems will be inspected and maintained to
applied for, or when the work was actually ensure they continue to function.
carried out. For more information on compliance schedules,
see the Compliance Schedule Handbook.
5.5 Notices to fix
(sections 163 to 168) 5.7 Building warrants of fitness
A notice to fix is a statutory notice requiring (sections 108 to 111)
a person to remedy a breach of the Building Act A building warrant of fitness (BWoF)
or Regulations under the Act. A notice to fix can is a statement supplied by a building owner,
be issued for all breaches of the Building Act, to the territorial authority confirming that the
including non-complying building work, and systems specified in the compliance schedule
for an incorrect building warrant of fitness for their building have been maintained and
or a compliance schedule that is not being checked in accordance with the compliance
properly complied with. A notice to fix can state schedule for the previous 12 months, and will
that all or any building work must cease continue to perform as required. For more
immediately. information on building warrants of fitness,
A building consent authority, regional authority see the Compliance Schedule Handbook.
or a territorial authority must issue a notice to
fix for any contravention of the Building Act and
Building Regulations under section 164 of the
Building Act. When a notice to fix has been
issued by a building consent authority that is
not a territorial authority or a regional authority,
the matter is then handed to the territorial
authority or regional authority to decide
whether the notice has been complied with.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

15
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Preface

5.8 Certificates for public use

(section 363A)

A certificate for public use is a new safety

provision under the Building Act. It is a tool
that can be used to certify that premises or
parts of premises affected by building work
are safe to be used by the public. Certificates
for public use can only be used where a building
consent has been granted for the building work
but no CCC has yet been issued. Certificates
for public use do not relieve the owner of a
building from the obligation to apply for a CCC
after all the building work has been carried out.

5.9 Building certificate

A building certificate was a formal confirmation

by a building certifier that specific aspects of a
building would or do comply with the Building
Code. A territorial authority was obliged to
accept such a certificate. Building certificates
were allowed for under the former Act, but are
only included under the new Building Act as
transitional allowances to phase them out.

16 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Contents
Page Page
A General Provisions 19 G Services and Facilities 56
A1 Classified uses 19 G1 Personal hygiene 56
A2 Interpretation 21 G2 Laundering 57
B Stability 23 G3 Food preparation and prevention 58
B1 Structure 23 of contamination
B2 Durability 25 G4 Ventilation 60
C Fire Safety 27 G5 Interior environment 61
C1 Outbreak of fire 27 G6 Airborne and impact sound 63
C2 Means of escape 29 G7 Natural light 64
C3 Spread of fire 30 G8 Artificial light 65
C4 Structural stability during fire 33 G9 Electricity 66
D Access 34 G10 Piped services 68
D1 Access routes 34 G11 Gas as an energy source 69
D2 Mechanical installations for access 38 G12 Water supplies 70
E Moisture 41 G13 Foul water 72
E1 Surface water 41 G14 Industrial liquid waste 74
E2 External moisture 42 G15 Solid waste 76
E3 Internal moisture 44 H Energy Efficiency 77
Amend 11
F Safety of Users 45 H1 Energy efficiency 77 Sep 2010

F1 Hazardous agents on site 45

F2 Hazardous building materials 46
F3 Hazardous substances and 47
processes
F4 Safety from falling 48
F5 Construction and demolition 49
hazards
F6 Visibility in escape routes 52
F7 Warning systems 54
Amend 11
Sep 2010 F8 Signs 55

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

17
18
Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

A General Provisions
Clause A1—Classified Uses

Provisions Limits on application

1.0 EXPLANATION
1.0.1 For the purposes of this building code buildings are classified according to type,
under seven categories.
1.0.2 A building with a given classified use may have one or more intended uses
as defined in the Act.
2.0 HOUSING
2.0.1 Applies to buildings or use where there is self care and service (internal
management). There are three types:
2.0.2 Detached Dwellings
Applies to a building or use where a group of people live as a single household
or family. Examples: a holiday cottage, boarding house accommodating fewer than
6 people, dwelling or hut.
2.0.3 Multi-unit Dwelling
Applies to a building or use which contains more than one separate household
or family. Examples: an attached dwelling, flat or multi-unit apartment.
2.0.4 Group Dwelling
Applies to a building or use where groups of people live as one large extended family.
Examples: within a commune or marae.
3.0 COMMUNAL RESIDENTIAL
3.0.1 Applies to buildings or use where assistance or care is extended to the principal
users. There are two types:
3.0.2 Community Service
Applies to a residential building or use where limited assistance or care is extended
to the principal users. Examples: a boarding house, hall of residence, holiday cabin,
[backcountry hut,] hostel, hotel, motel, nurses’ home, retirement village, time-share
accommodation, a work camp, or camping ground.
3.0.3 Community Care
Applies to a residential building or use where a large degree of assistance or care
is extended to the principal users. There are two types:
(a) Unrestrained; where the principal users are free to come and go.
Examples: a hospital, an old people’s home or a health camp.
(b) Restrained; where the principal users are legally or physically constrained
in their movements. Examples: a borstal or drug rehabilitation centre, an old people’s
home where substantial care is extended, a prison or hospital.
4.0 COMMUNAL NON-RESIDENTIAL
4.0.1 Applies to a building or use being a meeting place for people where care and
service is provided by people other than the principal users. There are two types:
4.0.2 Assembly Service
Applies to a building or use where limited care and service is provided.
Examples: a church, cinema, clubroom, hall, museum, public swimming pool,
stadium, theatre, or whare runanga (the assembly house).

Schedule 1 clause A1 3.0.2: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 4 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment
Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/358).

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

19
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause A1—Classified Uses (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

4.0.3 Assembly Care
Applies to a building or use where a large degree of care and service is provided.
Examples: an [early childhood education and care centre], college, day care institution,
centre for handicapped persons, kindergarten, school or university.
5.0 COMMERCIAL
5.0.1 Applies to a building or use in which any natural resources, goods, services
or money are either developed, sold, exchanged or stored. Examples: an amusement
park, auction room, bank, car-park, catering facility, coffee bar, computer centre,
fire station, funeral parlour, hairdresser, library, office (commercial or government),
police station, post office, public laundry, radio station, restaurant, service station,
shop, showroom, storage facility, television station or transport terminal.
6.0 INDUSTRIAL
6.0.1 Applies to a building or use where people use material and physical effort to:
(a) extract or convert natural resources,
(b) produce goods or energy from natural or converted resources,
(c) repair goods, or
(d) store goods (ensuing from the industrial process).
Examples: an agricultural building, agricultural processing facility, aircraft hanger,
factory, power station, sewage treatment works, warehouse or utility.
7.0 OUTBuildings
7.0.1 Applies to a building or use which may be included within each classified use
but are not intended for human habitation, and are accessory to the principal use
of associated buildings. Examples: a carport, farm building, garage, greenhouse,
machinery room, private swimming pool, public toilet, or shed.
8.0 ANCILLARY
8.0.1 Applies to a building or use not for human habitation and which may be exempted
from some amenity provisions, but which are required to comply with structural and
safety-related aspects of the building code. Examples: a bridge, derrick, fence, free
standing outdoor fireplace, jetty, mast, path, platform, pylon, retaining wall, tank, tunnel
or dam.

Schedule 1 clause A1 4.0.3: amended, on 1 December 2008, by section 60(2) of the Education Amendment Act 2006 (2006 No 19).

20 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

CLAUSE A2—INTERPRETATION

Provisions Limits on application

This Clause of the New Zealand Building Code lists defined words used within
the Code.
Those definitions, plus defined word or terms used in the Compliance Documents,
are included in the section on definitions in this Handbook.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

21
22
Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

B Stability
CLAUSE
Clause B1—STRUCTURE
B2—DURABILITY (continued)

Provisions
Provisions Limits
Limits on
on application
application
OBJECTIVE
B1.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury caused by
structural failure,
(b) Safeguard people from loss of amenity
caused by structural behaviour, and
(c) Protect other property from physical
damage caused by structural failure.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
B1.2 Buildings, building elements and
sitework shall withstand the combination
of loads that they are likely to experience
during construction or alteration and
throughout their lives.
PERFORMANCE
B1.3.1 Buildings, building elements and
sitework shall have a low probability of
rupturing, becoming unstable, losing
equilibrium, or collapsing during
construction or alteration and throughout
their lives.
B1.3.2 Buildings, building elements
and sitework shall have a low probability
of causing loss of amenity through
undue deformation, vibratory response,
degradation, or other physical
characteristics throughout their lives,
or during construction or alteration
when the building is in use.
B1.3.3 Account shall be taken of all
physical conditions likely to affect the
stability of buildings, building elements and
sitework, including:
(a) Self-weight,
(b) Imposed gravity loads arising from use,
(c) Temperature,
(d) Earth pressure,
(e) Water and other liquids,
(f) Earthquake,
(g) Snow,
(h) Wind,
(i) Fire,

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

23
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

CLAUSE B1—STRUCTURE (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

(j) Impact,
(k) Explosion,
(l) Reversing or fluctuating effects,
(m) Differential movement,
(n) Vegetation,
(o) Adverse effects due to insufficient
separation from other buildings,
(p) Influence of equipment, services,
non-structural elements and contents,
(q) Time dependent effects including creep
and shrinkage, and
(r) Removal of support.
B1.3.4 Due allowance shall be made for:
(a) The consequences of failure,
(b) The intended use of the building,
(c) Effects of uncertainties resulting from
construction activities, or the sequence in
which construction activities occur,
(d) Variation in the properties of materials
and the characteristics of the site, and
(e) Accuracy limitations inherent in the
methods used to predict the stability of
buildings.
B1.3.5 The demolition of buildings shall
be carried out in a way that avoids the
likelihood of premature collapse.
B1.3.6 Sitework, where necessary, shall
be carried out to:
(a) Provide stability for construction on the
site, and
(b) Avoid the likelihood of damage to other
property.
B1.3.7 Any sitework and associated
supports shall take account of the effects of:
(a) Changes in ground water level,
(b) Water, weather and vegetation, and
(c) Ground loss and slumping.

24 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause B2—DURABILITY

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
B2.1 The objective of this provision is to
ensure that a building will throughout its life
continue to satisfy the other objectives of
this code.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
B2.2 Building materials, components and
construction methods shall be sufficiently
durable to ensure that the building, without
reconstruction or major renovation, satisfies
the other functional requirements of this
code throughout the life of the building.
PERFORMANCE
B2.3.1 Building elements must, with only Performance B2.3.1 applies from the
normal maintenance, continue to satisfy the time of issue of the applicable code
performance requirements of this code for compliance certificate. Building
the lesser of the specified intended life of elements are not required to satisfy
the building, if stated, or: a durability performance which
exceeds the specified intended life
of the building
(a) The life of the building, being not less
than 50 years, if:
(i) Those building elements (including
floors, walls, and fixings) provide structural
stability to the building, or
(ii) Those building elements are difficult to
access or replace, or
(iii) Failure of those building elements to
comply with the building code would go
undetected during both normal use and
maintenance of the building
(b) 15 years if:
(i) Those building elements (including the
building envelope, exposed plumbing in the
subfloor space, and in-built chimneys and
flues) are moderately difficult to access or
replace, or
(ii) Failure of those building elements to
comply with the building code would go
undetected during normal use of the
building, but would be easily detected
during normal maintenance.

Clause B2.3 Schedule was substituted, as from 11 September 1997, by regulation 2 Building Amendment Regulations 1997 (SR 1997/156).

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

25
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause B2—DURABILITY (continued)

Provisions
Provisions Limits on application
(c) 5 years if:
(i) The building elements (including
services, linings, renewable protective
coatings, and fixtures) are easy to access
and replace, and
(ii) Failure of those building elements to
comply with the building code would be
easily detected during normal use of the
building.
B2.3.2 Individual building elements which
are components of a building system and
are difficult to access or replace must
either:
(a) All have the same durability, or
(b) Be installed in a manner that permits
the replacement of building elements of
lesser durability without removing building
elements that have greater durability and
are not specifically designed for removal
and replacement.

26 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

C Fire Safety
Clause
Clause B2—DURABILITY
C1—OUTBREAK OF(continued)
Fire

Provisions
Provisions Limits
Limitson
onapplication
application
OBJECTIVE
C1.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness
caused by fire.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
C1.2 In buildings fixed appliances using
the controlled combustion of solid, liquid
or gaseous fuel, shall be installed in a way
which reduces the likelihood of fire.
PERFORMANCE
C1.3.1 Fixed appliances and services shall
be installed so as to avoid the accumulation
of gases within the installation and in building
spaces, where heat or ignition could cause
uncontrolled combustion or explosion.
C1.3.2 Fixed appliances shall be installed
in a manner that does not raise the
temperature of any building element by
heat transfer or concentration to a level
that would adversely affect its physical
or mechanical properties or function

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

27
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause B2—DURABILITY
Clause C2—MEANS OF ESCAPE
(continued)

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
C2.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury or illness from
a fire while escaping to a safe place, and
(b) Facilitate fire rescue operations.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
C2.2 Buildings shall be provided with [means
of escape from fire] which:
(a) Give people adequate time to reach
a safe place without being overcome by
the effects of fire, and
(b) Give fire service personnel adequate time
to undertake rescue operations.
PERFORMANCE
C2.3.1 The number of open paths available
to each person escaping to an exitway
or final exit shall be appropriate to:
(a) The travel distance.
(b) The number of occupants,
(c) The fire hazard, and
(d) The fire safety systems installed in the firecell.
C2.3.2 The number of exitways or final
exits available to each person shall be
appropriate to:
(a) The open path travel distance,
(b) The building height,
(c) The number of occupants,
(d) The fire hazard, and
(e) The fire safety systems installed in
the building.
C2.3.3 Escape routes shall be:
(a) Of adequate size for the number of
occupants,
(b) Free of obstruction in the direction of [Performance C2.3.3(b) must not
escape, prevent a door that forms part of an
escape route from being locked if
the person who locks it is satisfied
that no one is in that part of the building
served by the escape route and that
no one is likely to enter that part of
the building, except in an emergency,
without unlocking that door.]

Clause C2.2 was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by substituting the words
““means of escape from fire”” for the words ““escape routes””.
Clause C2.3.3(b) was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(2) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by inserting, adjacent
to clause C2.3.3(b) in the column headed ““Limits on application””, the words ““Performance C2.3.3(b) must not prevent a door that forms part of an
escape route from being locked if the person who locks it is satisfied that no one is in that part of the building served by the escape route and that no one
is likely to enter that part of the building, except in an emergency, without unlocking that door.””

28 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause C2—MEANS OF ESCAPE

B2—DURABILITY (continued)
(continued)

Provisions
Provisions Limits on application
(c) Of length appropriate to the mobility
of the people using them,
(d) Resistant to the spread of fire as
required by Clause C3 “Spread of Fire”,
(e) Easy to find as required by Clause
F8 “Signs”,
[(f) Provided with systems for visibility
during failure of the main lighting,
as required by Clause F6 “Visibility in
escape routes”, and]
(g) Easy and safe to use as required
by Clause D1.3.3 “Access Routes”.

Clause C2.3.3(f) was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 6(3) Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

29
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause C3—SPREAD OF Fire

B2—DURABILITY (continued)

Provisions
Provisions Limits on application
OBJECTIVE
C3.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury or illness
when evacuating a building during fire.
(b) Provide protection to fire service
personnel during firefighting operations.
(c) Protect adjacent household units[, other
residential units,] and other property from
the effects of fire.
(d) Safeguard the environment from
adverse effects of fire.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
C3.2 Buildings shall be provided with
safeguards against fire spread so that:
(a) Occupants have time to escape to
a safe place without being overcome
by the effects of fire,
(b) Firefighters may undertake rescue
operations and protect property,
(c) Adjacent household units[, other
residential units,] and other property
are protected from damage, and
(d) Significant quantities of hazardous Requirement C3.2(d) applies only
substances are not released to the to buildings where significant
environment during fire. quantities of hazardous substances
are stored or processed.

PERFORMANCE
C3.3.1 Interior surface finishes on walls,
floors, ceilings and suspended building
elements, shall resist the spread of fire
and limit the generation of toxic gases,
smoke and heat, to a degree
appropriate to:
(a) The travel distance,
(b) The number of occupants,
(c) The fire hazard, and
(d) The active fire safety systems installed
in the building.

Clause C3.1(c) was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(3) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by inserting after
the words ““household units””, the words ““, other residential units,””.

30 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause C3—SPREAD OF Fire

B2—DURABILITY (continued)
(continued)

Provisions
Provisions Limits on application
C3.3.2 Fire separations shall be provided
within buildings to avoid the spread of fire
and smoke to:
(a) Other firecells,
(b) Spaces intended for sleeping, and [Performance C3.3.2(b) does not apply
to Detached Dwellings or within
household units of Multi-unit
Dwellings.]
(c) Household units within the same
building or adjacent buildings.
[(d) other property.]

C3.3.3 Fire separations shall:
(a) Where openings occur, be provided
with fire resisting closures to maintain the
integrity of the fire separations for an
adequate time, and
(b) Where penetrations occur, maintain the
fire resistance rating of the fire separation.
C3.3.4 Concealed spaces and cavities Performance C3.3.4 shall not apply
within buildings shall be sealed and to Detached Dwellings.
subdivided where necessary to inhibit the
unseen spread of fire and smoke.
C3.3.5 External walls and roofs shall have
resistance to the spread of fire, appropriate
to the fire load within the building and to the
proximity of other household units[, other
residential units,] and other property.
C3.3.6 Automatic fire suppression systems
shall be installed where people would
otherwise be:
(a) Unlikely to reach a safe place in
adequate time because of the number
of storeys in the building,
(b) Required to remain within the building
without proceeding directly to a final exit,
or where the evacuation time is excessive,
(c) Unlikely to reach a safe place due
to confinement under institutional care
because of mental or physical disability,
illness or legal detention, and the
evacuation time is excessive, or
(d) At high risk due to the fire load and
fire hazard within the building.

Clause C3.2(c) was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(4) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by inserting after
the words ““household units””, the words ““, other residential units,””.
Clause C3.3.2 was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(5) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by adding the following
paragraph: ““(d) other property.”” and repealing, adjacent to clause C3.3.2 in the column headed ““Limits on application””, the words ““Performance C3.3.2
shall not apply to Detached Dwellings, or within household units of Multi-unit Dwellings.”” and inserting, adjacent to clause C3.3.2(b) in the column headed
““Limits on application””, the words ““Performance C3.3.2(b) does not apply to Detached Dwellings or within household units of Multi-unit Dwellings.””
Clause C3.3.5 was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(6) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by inserting after
the words ““household units””, the words ““, other residential units,””.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

31
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause C3—SPREAD OF Fire

B2—DURABILITY (continued)
(continued)

Provisions Limits on application

C3.3.7 Air conditioning and mechanical
ventilation systems shall be constructed
to avoid circulation of smoke and fire
between firecells.
C3.3.8 Where an automatic smoke control
system is installed, it shall be constructed to:
(a) Avoid the spread of fire and smoke
between firecells, and
(b) Protect escape routes from smoke until
the occupants have reached a safe place.
C3.3.9 The fire safety systems installed [Performance C3.3.9 does not apply
shall facilitate the specific needs of fire to backcountry huts.]
service personnel to:
(a) Carry out rescue operations, and
(b) Control the spread of fire.
C3.3.10 Environmental protection systems Performance C3.3.10 applies only to
shall ensure a low probability of hazardous buildings where significant quantities
substances being released to: of hazardous substances are stored
or processed.
(a) Soils, vegetation or natural waters,
(b) The atmosphere, and
(c) Sewers or public drains.

Schedule 1 clause C3.3.9: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 6 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment Regulations
2008 (SR 2008/358).

32 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause C4—STRUCTURAL STABILITY DURING Fire

B2—DURABILITY (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
C4.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury due to
loss of structural stability during fire, and
(b) Protect household units and other
property from damage due to structural
instability caused by fire.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
C4.2 Buildings shall be constructed to
maintain structural stability during fire to:
(a) Allow people adequate time to evacuate
safely,
(b) Allow fire service personnel adequate
time to undertake rescue and firefighting
operations, and
(c) Avoid collapse and consequential
damage to adjacent household units or
other property.
PERFORMANCE
C4.3.1 Structural elements of buildings
shall have fire resistance appropriate to the
function of the elements, the fire load, the
fire intensity, the fire hazard, the height of
the buildings and the fire control facilities
external to and within them.
C4.3.2 Structural elements shall have
a fire resistance of no less than that of
any element to which they provide support
within the same firecell.
C4.3.3 Collapse of elements having
lesser fire resistance shall not cause
the consequential collapse of elements
required to have a higher fire resistance.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

33
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

D Access
Clause D1—ACCESS ROUTES
B2—DURABILITY (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
D1.1 The objective of this provision is:
(a) Safeguard people from injury during
movement into, within and out of buildings,
(b) Safeguard people from injury resulting
from the movement of vehicles into, within
and out of buildings, and
(c) Ensure that people with disabilities are Objective D1.1(c) shall apply only to Note: Section
47A is in the
able to enter and carry out normal activities those buildings to which [section 47A Building Act
and functions within buildings. of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
D1.2.1 Buildings shall be provided with Requirement D1.2.1 shall not apply 2004 is
section 118.
reasonable and adequate access to enable to Ancillary buildings or Outbuildings.
safe and easy movement of people.

D1.2.2 Where a building is provided with
loading or parking spaces, they shall be
constructed to permit safe and easy
unloading and movement of vehicles,
and to avoid conflict between vehicles
and pedestrians.
PERFORMANCE
D1.3.1 Access routes shall enable people to:
(a) Safely and easily approach the main
entrance of buildings from the apron or
construction edge of a building,
(b) Enter buildings,
(c) Move into spaces within buildings by
such means as corridors, doors, stairs,
ramps and lifts,
(d) Manoeuvre and park cars, and
(e) Manoeuvre and park delivery vehicles
required to use the loading space.
D1.3.2 At least one access route shall have Performance D1.3.2 shall not apply
features to enable people with disabilities to: to Housing, Outbuildings, [backcountry
(a) Approach the building from the street huts,] Ancillary buildings, and to
boundary or, where required to be provided, Industrial buildings where no more
the building car park, than 10 people are employed.

(b) Have access to the internal space

served by the principal access, and
(c) Have access to and within those spaces
where they may be expected to work or
visit, or which contain facilities for personal
hygiene as required by Clause G1
“Personal Hygiene”.

The limits on application to clause D1.1(c) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from 29 December
2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act”” for the expression
““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.
Schedule 1 clause D1.3.2: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 7 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment Regulations
2008 (SR 2008/358).

34 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

CLAUSE B2—DURABILITY
Clause B1—STRUCTURE
D1—ACCESS ROUTES (continued)
(continued)

Provisions Limits
Limitson
Limits onapplication
on application
application
D1.3.3 Access routes shall:
(a) Have adequate activity space,
(b) Be free from dangerous obstructions
and from any projections likely to cause
an obstruction,
(c) Have a safe cross fall, and safe slope
in the direction of travel,
(d) Have adequate slip-resistant walking
surfaces under all conditions of normal use,
(e) Include stairs to allow access to upper
floors irrespective of whether an escalator
or lift has been provided,
(f) Have stair treads, and ladder treads
or rungs which:
(i) provide adequate footing, and
(ii) have uniform rise within each flight
and for consecutive flights,
(g) Have stair treads with a leading edge
that can be easily seen,
(h) Have stair treads which prevent children Performance D1.3.3(h) shall not apply
falling through or becoming held fast within Industrial buildings,
between treads, where open risers are used, Outbuildings and Ancillary buildings.
(i) Not contain isolated steps, Performance D1.3.3(i) shall not apply
with Detached Dwellings or within
household units of Multi-unit
Dwellings, or to Outbuildings and
Ancillary buildings.
(j) Have smooth, reachable and graspable Performance D1.3.3(j) shall not apply
handrails to provide support and to assist to isolated steps.
with movement along a stair or ladder,
(k) Have handrails of adequate strength and
rigidity as required by Clause B1 “Structure”,
(l) Have landings of appropriate dimensions
and at appropriate intervals along a stair
or ramp to prevent undue fatigue,
(m) Have landings of appropriate
dimensions where a door opens from
or onto a stair, ramp or ladder so that the
door does not create a hazard, and
(n) Have any automatically controlled
doors constructed to avoid the risk of
people becoming caught or being struck
by moving parts.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

35
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause D1—ACCESS ROUTES (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

D1.3.4 An accessible route, in addition to
the requirement of Clause D1.3.3, shall:
(a) Be easy to find, as required by Clause
F8 “Signs”,
(b) Have adequate activity space to enable
a person in a wheelchair to negotiate the
route while permitting an ambulant person
to pass,
(c) Include a lift complying with Clause D2
“Mechanical Installations for Access” to
upper floors where:
(i) buildings are four or more storeys high,
(ii) buildings are three storeys high and
have a total design occupancy of 50 or
more persons on the two upper floors,
(iii) buildings are two storeys high and have
a total design occupancy of 40 or more
persons on the upper floor, or
(iv) an upper floor, irrespective of design
occupancy, is to be used for the purposes
of public reception areas of banks, central,
regional and local government offices and
facilities, hospitals, medical and dental
surgeries and medical, paramedical and
other primary health care centres,
(d) Contain no thresholds or upstands forming
a barrier to an unaided wheelchair user,
(e) Have means to prevent the wheel of
a wheelchair dropping over the side of
the accessible route,
(f) Have doors and related hardware which
are easily used,
(g) Not include spiral stairs, or stairs having
open risers,
(h) Have stair treads with leading edge
which is rounded, and
(i) Have handrails on both sides of the
accessible route when the slope of the
route exceeds 1 in 20. The handrails shall
be continuous along both sides of the stair,
ramp and landing except where the
handrail is interrupted by a doorway.

36 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause D1—ACCESS ROUTES (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

D1.3.5 Vehicle spaces and circulation
routes shall have:
(a) Dimensions appropriate to the intended use,
(b) Appropriate crossfall, and slope in the
direction of travel,
(c) Adequate queuing and circulation
space, and
(d) Adequate sight distances.
D1.3.6 Vehicle spaces for use by people
with disabilities, shall, in addition to the
requirements of Clause D1.3.5, be:
(a) Provided in sufficient numbers,
(b) Located to avoid conflict between
vehicles and people using or moving to
or from the space, and
(c) Easy to find as required by Clause F8 Signs.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

37
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause D2—MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS FOR ACCESS

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
D2.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury and
loss of amenity while using mechanical
installations for movement into, within
and out of buildings,
(b) Safeguard maintenance personnel from
injury while servicing mechanical
installations for access, and
(c) Ensure that people with disabilities are Objective D2.1(c) shall apply only to Note: Section
47A is in the
able to carry out normal activities and those buildings to which [section 47A Building Act
processes within buildings. of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
D2.2 Mechanical installations for access 2004 is
section 118.
into, within and out of buildings shall
provide for the safe and easy movement
of people, and for the safety of
maintenance personnel.
PERFORMANCE
D2.3.1 Mechanical installations for
access shall:
(a) Move people safely, and stop and hold
as required for the normal use of the
installation, for all loads up to and including
25% in excess of the rated load,
(b) Not produce excessive acceleration
or deceleration,
(c) Be constructed to avoid the likelihood
of people falling, tripping, becoming caught,
being able to touch or be struck by moving
parts, sharp edges or projections, under
both normal and reasonably foreseeable
abnormal conditions of use,
(d) Be constructed to prevent collision
between components, or between
components and the building,
(e) Have a control system that ensures
safe abnormal operation in the event
of overloading or failure of any single
component, and
(f) Be capable of being isolated for
inspection, testing and maintenance.

The limits on application to clause D2.1(c) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.

38 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause D2—MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS FOR ACCESS (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

D2.3.2 Mechanical installations for access
shall be provided with:
(a) Adequate control over normal use,
to ensure people’s safety throughout any
operation involving starting, stopping or
changing the direction of travel,
(b) Notification of position, where people
are fully enclosed and the installation
serves more than two levels,
(c) Adequate lighting and ventilation for
both normal and emergency use, and
(d) Signs as required by Clause F8 “Signs”,
D2.3.3 Mechanical installations for access
shall, for emergency purposes, be provided
with a means of:
(a) Calling outside help,
(b) Releasing people safely,
(c) Safeguarding people from exposure
to hazardous situations, and
(d) Allowing authorised personnel to Performance D2.3.3(d) shall not
override the normal running procedure apply to installations travelling less
and take exclusive control of the than 15m vertically.
installation.
D2.3.4 Potentially dangerous equipment
shall be located in spaces which:
(a) Are secure from unauthorised entry
and contain only equipment associated
with the installation,
(b) Are appropriately sized and suitably
guarded to provide adequate safe working
areas for maintenance personnel,
(c) Are provided with adequate power
and lighting for maintenance, and
(d) Have an environment that ensures
the safe operation of the equipment under
all likely conditions of use.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

39
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause D2—MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS FOR ACCESS (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

D2.3.5 Mechanical installations on
accessible routes shall:
(a) Where the passenger conveyor is
manually controlled, provide:
(i) controls which are easily identifiable and
easy to use,
(ii) adequate notification that the passenger
conveyor has registered a summoning call,
and
(iii) adequate notification that the passenger
conveyor has arrived, and of its future
direction of travel,
(b) Where the passenger conveyor is fully
enclosed and serves more than two levels,
provide an adequate means of informing
occupants of their location,
(c) Where appropriate, have doors which:
(i) are power operated,
(ii) are readily distinguishable from their
surroundings, and
(iii) where automatic, remain open
sufficiently long to enable people with
disabilities to pass through, and
(d) Have handrails within the passenger
conveyor.

40 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

E Moisture
Clause E1—Surface water
B2—DURABILITY (continued)

Provisions Limits on
Limits on application
application
OBJECTIVE
E1.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury or illness,
and other property from damage, caused
by surface water, and
(b) Protect the outfalls of drainage systems.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
E1.2 Buildings and sitework shall be
constructed in a way that protects people
and other property from the adverse effects
of surface water.
PERFORMANCE
E1.3.1 [Except as otherwise required under
the Resource Management Act 1991 for the
protection of other property, surface water],
resulting from [an event] having a 10%
probability of occurring annually and which
is collected or concentrated by buildings or
sitework, shall be disposed of in a way that
avoids the likelihood of damage or nuisance
to other property.
E1.3.2 Surface water, resulting from [an Performance E1.3.2 shall apply only
event] having a 2% probability of occurring to Housing, Communal Residential and
annually, shall not enter buildings. Communal Non-residential buildings.
E1.3.3 Drainage systems for the disposal
of surface water shall be constructed to:
(a) Convey surface water to an appropriate
outfall using gravity flow where possible,
(b) Avoid the likelihood of blockages,
(c) Avoid the likelihood of leakage,
penetration by roots, or the entry of ground
water where pipes or lined channels are used,
(d) Provide reasonable access for
maintenance and clearing blockages,
(e) Avoid the likelihood of damage to any
outfall, in a manner acceptable to the
network utility operator, and
(f) Avoid the likelihood of damage from
superimposed loads or normal ground
movements.

Clause E1.3.1 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 3(2)(e) and (f) Building Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263)
by substituting the words ““Except as otherwise required under the Resource Management Act 1991 for the protection of other property, surface water””
for the words ““Surface water””.
Clause E1.3.1 was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(7) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by substituting the words
““an event”” for the words ““a storm””.
Clause E1.3.2 was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(8) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by substituting the words
““an event”” for the words ““a storm””.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

41
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

[Clause E2—EXTERNAL MOISTURE

Provisions Limits on application

Objective
E2.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from illness or injury that
could result from external moisture entering
the building.
Functional requirement
E2.2 Buildings must be constructed to Requirement E2.2 does not apply
provide adequate resistance to penetration to buildings (for example, certain bus
by, and the accumulation of, moisture from shelters, and certain buildings used for
the outside. horticulture or for equipment for washing
motor vehicles automatically) if moisture
from the outside penetrating them, or
accumulating within them, or both, is
unlikely to impair significantly all or any
of their amenity, durability, and stability.
Performance
E2.3.1 Roofs must shed precipitated
moisture. In locations subject to snowfalls,
roofs must also shed melted snow.
E2.3.2 Roofs and exterior walls must
prevent the penetration of water that could
cause undue dampness, damage to
building elements, or both.
E2.3.3 Walls, floors, and structural
elements in contact with, or in close
proximity to, the ground must not absorb
or transmit moisture in quantities that could
cause undue dampness, damage to
building elements, or both.
E2.3.4 Building elements susceptible
to damage must be protected from the
adverse effects of moisture entering the
space below suspended floors.
E2.3.5 Concealed spaces and cavities
in buildings must be constructed in a way
that prevents external moisture being
accumulated or transferred and causing
condensation, fungal growth, or the
degradation of building elements.
E2.3.6 Excess moisture present at the
completion of construction must be capable
of being dissipated without permanent
damage to building elements.

Clause E2 was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 4 Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

42 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

[Clause E2—EXTERNAL MOISTURE (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

E2.3.7 Building elements must be constructed
in a way that makes due allowance for the
following:
(a) the consequences of failure:
(b) the effects of uncertainties resulting from
construction or from the sequence in which
different aspects of construction occur:
(c) variation in the properties of materials
and in the characteristics of the site.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

43
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

[Clause E3—INTERNAL MOISTURE

Provisions Limits on application

Objective
E3.1 The objective of this provision is to—
(a) Safeguard people against illness, injury,
or loss of amenity that could result from
accumulation of internal moisture; and
(b) Protect household units and other
property from damage caused by free
water from another household unit in the
same building.
Functional Requirement
E3.2 Buildings must be constructed to
avoid the likelihood of—
(a) Fungal growth or the accumulation of
contaminants on linings and other building
elements; and
(b) Free water overflow penetrat- ing to
an adjoining household unit; and
(c) Damage to building elements caused
by the presence of moisture.
Performance
E3.3.1 An adequate combination of thermal Performance E3.3.1 does not apply
resistance, ventilation, and space to Communal Non-residential,
temperature must be provided to all Commercial, Industrial, Outbuildings,
habitable spaces, bathrooms, laundries, or Ancillary buildings.
and other spaces where moisture may be
generated or may accumulate.
E3.3.2 Freewater from accidental overflow
from sanitary fixtures or sanitary
appliances must be disposed of in a way
that avoids loss of amenity or damage
to household units or other property.
E3.3.3 Floor surfaces of any space containing
sanitary fixtures or sanitary appliances
must be impervious and easily cleaned.
E3.3.4 Wall surfaces adjacent to sanitary
fixtures or sanitary appliances must be
impervious and easily cleaned.
E3.3.5 Surfaces of building elements likely
to be splashed or become contaminated in
the course of the intended use of the building,
must be impervious and easily cleaned.
E3.3.6 Surfaces of building elements likely
to be splashed must be constructed in a way
that prevents water splash from penetrating
behind linings or into concealed spaces.

Clause E3 was substituted, as from 14 October 2004, by regulation 3 Building Amendment Regulations 2004 (SR 2004/317).

44 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

F Safety of Users
Clause F1—HAZARDOUS AGENTS ON SITE

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F1.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness
caused by hazardous agents or
contaminants on a site.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
F1.2 Buildings shall be constructed to avoid
the likelihood of people within the building
being adversely affected by hazardous
agents or contaminants on the site.
PERFORMANCE
F1.3.1 Sites shall be assessed to determine
the presence and potential threat of any
hazardous agents or contaminants.
F1.3.2 The likely effect of any hazardous
agent or contaminant on people shall be
determined taking account of:
(a) The intended use of the building,
(b) The nature, potency or toxicity of the
hazardous agent or contaminant, and,
(c) The protection afforded by the building
envelope and building systems.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

45
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause F2—HAZARDOUS Building MATERIALS

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F2.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury and illness
caused by exposure to hazardous building
materials.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
F2.2 Building materials which are
potentially hazardous, shall be used in
ways that avoid undue risk to people.
PERFORMANCE
F2.3.1 The quantities of gas, liquid,
radiation or solid particles emitted by
materials used in the construction of
buildings, shall not give rise to harmful
concentrations at the surface of the
material where the material is exposed,
or in the atmosphere of any space.
F2.3.2 Transparent panels capable of being Performance F2.3.2 does not apply
mistaken for an unimpeded path of travel to Housing
shall be marked to make them visible.
F2.3.3 Glass or other brittle materials with
which people are likely to come into
contact shall:
(a) If broken on impact, break in a way
which is unlikely to cause injury, or
(b) Resist a reasonably foreseeable impact
without breaking, or
(c) Be protected from impact.

46 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause F3—Hazardous substances AND PROCESSES

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F3.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness,
and other property from damage, caused
by hazardous substances or processes
in buildings.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
F3.2 Buildings where hazardous
substances are stored and hazardous
processes undertaken, shall be constructed
to provide adequate protection to people
and to other property.
PERFORMANCE
F3.3 Spaces in buildings where hazardous
substances are stored, handled or used,
or where hazardous processes are
undertaken, shall be located and
constructed to protect people, and other
property, under both normal and
reasonably foreseeable abnormal
conditions, and shall be provided with:
(a) Means of restricting unauthorised
access,
(b) Means of preventing hazardous
substances, or other materials
unacceptable to the network utility operator,
from entering sewers or public drains,
(c) Means of allowing the harmless release
of pressure where there is a significant risk
of explosion occurring,
(d) Protected ignition sources where
flammable or explosive goods are stored,
(e) Means of rendering harmless by
ventilation, containment, dilution, or
chemical or biological action, any
radioactive, toxic or flammable vapours,
gases or materials which may escape
from pipes, vessels or containers,
(f) Impervious, easily cleaned surface
finishes on building elements likely to
be splashed or become contaminated in
the course of the intended use of the
building, and
(g) Signs as required by Clause F8 “Signs”.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

47
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause F4—SAFETY FROM FALLING

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F4.1 The objective of this provision is
to safeguard people from injury caused
by falling.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
F4.2 Buildings shall be constructed to
reduce the likelihood of accidental fall.
PERFORMANCE
F4.3.1 Where people could fall 1 metre Performance F4.3.1 shall not apply
or more from an opening in the external where such a barrier would be
envelope or floor of a building, or from a incompatible with the intended use
sudden change of level within or associated of an area, or to temporary barriers
with a building, a barrier shall be provided. on construction sites where the
possible fall is less than 3 metres
[, or to buildings providing pedestrian
access in remote locations where
the route served presents similar
natural hazards].

F4.3.2 Roofs with permanent access shall

have barriers provided.
F4.3.3 Swimming pools having a depth of Performance F4.3.3 shall not
water exceeding 400mm, shall [have apply to any pool exempted under
barriers provided]. section 5 of the Fencing of Swimming
Pools Act 1987.

F4.3.4 Barriers shall:
(a) Be continuous and extend for the full
extent of the hazard,
(b) Be of appropriate height,
(c) Be constructed with adequate rigidity,
(d) Be of adequate strength to withstand
the foreseeable impact of people and,
where appropriate, the static pressure
of people pressing against them,
(e) Be constructed to prevent people from
falling through them, and
[(f) In the case of a swimming pool, restrict [Performance F4.3.4(f) shall not
the access of children under 6 years of age apply to any pool exempted under
to the pool or the immediate pool area.] section 5 of the Fencing of Swimming
Pools Act 1987.]
[(g) Restrict the passage of children under
6 years of age when provided to guard
a change of level in areas likely to be
frequented by them.]

Clause F4.3.1 was amended, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(9) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374), by adding, to the entry
adjacent to clause F4.3.1 in the column headed ““Limits on application””, the words ““, or to buildings providing pedestrian access in remote locations
where the route served presents similar natural hazards””.
Clause F4.3.3 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 5(1) Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the words ““have barriers provided”” for the words ““be constructed with a barrier to restrict access to the pool or the immediate pool area, by children
under 6 years of age””.
Clause F4.3.4 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 5(2) Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
para (f), inserting the text opposite para (f), and inserting para (g).
Clause F4.3.4(h) was inserted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 5 Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

48 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause F4—SAFETY FROM FALLING (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

[(h) Be constructed so that they are not [Performance F4.3.4(h) does not apply
readily able to be used as seats.] to Housing.]
F4.3.5 Barriers to swimming pools shall
have in addition to performance F4.3.4:
[(a) All gates and doors fitted with latching
devices not readily operated by children,
and constructed to automatically close and
latch when released from any stationary
position 150mm or more from the closed
and secured position, but excluding sliding
and sliding-folding doors that give access
to the immediate pool surround from a
building that forms part of the barrier, and]
(b) No permanent objects on the outside of
the barrier that could provide a climbing step.

Clause F4.3.5 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 5(3) Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
para (a).

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

49
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause F5—Construction AND DEMOLITION HAZARDS

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F5.1 The objective of this provision is
to safeguard people from injury, and
other property from damage, caused by
construction or demolition site hazards.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
[F5.2] Construction and demolition work
on buildings shall be performed in a
manner that avoids the likelihood of:
(a) Objects falling onto people on or off
the site,
(b) Objects falling on property off the site,
(c) Other hazards arising on the site
affecting people off the site and other
property, and
(d) Unauthorised entry of children to
hazards on the site.
PERFORMANCE
F5.3.1 Suitable construction methods shall
be used to avoid the likelihood of tools or
materials falling onto places where people
might be present.
F5.3.2 Where construction or demolition
work presents a hazard in places to which
the public has access, barriers shall be
provided and shall:
(a) Be of appropriate height and
construction to prevent site hazards
from harming traffic or passersby,
(b) Be difficult to climb,
(c) Have no opening other than those
approved by the territorial authority for
access and viewing,
(d) Have no gates or doors which project
beyond the site when opened,
(e) Contain no projection that would be
a hazard to traffic or people, and
(f) Be clearly marked where the barrier
itself may otherwise present a hazard
to traffic or passersby.

Clause F5 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 6 Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the expression ““F5.2”” for the expression ““F5”” immediately under the heading ““FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT””.

50 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause F5—Construction AND DEMOLITION HAZARDS (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

F5.3.3 Where a construction or demolition
site contains any hazard which might be
expected to attract the unauthorised entry
of children, the hazard shall be enclosed
to restrict access by children.
F5.3.4 Suitable barriers shall be
constructed to provide a safe route for
people where lifting equipment creates
a risk of accident from objects falling on
a place of public access, or where a
similar risk results from the height at
which construction or demolition work
is being carried out.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

51
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

[Clause F6—Visibility in escape routes

Provisions Limits on application

Objective
F6.1 The objective of this provision is to
help safeguard people from injury in
escape routes during failure of the main
lighting.
Functional requirement

F6.2 Specified features in escape routes Requirement F6.2 does not apply to
must be made reasonably visible by lighting Detached Dwellings, household units
systems, other systems, or both, during within Multi-unit Dwellings, Outbuildings,
failure of the main lighting. [[backcountry huts,]] or Ancillary
buildings.

Performance
F6.3.1 Specified features in escape routes Performance F6.3.1 does not apply to
must, when the systems for visibility are at specified features in the initial 20 metres
their design level, be reasonably visible. of an escape route if the risk of injury,
or impediment to movement of people,
due to the specified features not being
visible is low (for example, because
people are familiar with the escape
route, the escape route is level,
and people do not require assistance
to escape).
F6.3.2 The systems for visibility must
operate to the following percentages of
their design levels within the following
times after failure of the main lighting:
(a) 80% in 0.5 seconds in locations
(examples of which are given by
performance F6.3.3) where there is a
high risk of injury due to delay in operation
of the systems for visibility; and
(b) 10% in 0.5 seconds, and 80% in
30 seconds, in stairs and in locations
that are unfamiliar to users; and
(c) 10% in 20 seconds, and 80% in
60 seconds, in all other locations.

Schedule 1 clause F6.2: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 8 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment Regulations 2008
(SR 2008/358).
Clause F6.2 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 7(1) Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the word ““Ancillary”” for the word ““Ancilliary””.
Clause F6.3.1 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 7(2) Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by inserting
the words ““or 30 minutes, whichever is the greater””.
Clause F6 was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 6(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

52 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

[Clause F6—Visibility in escape routes (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

F6.3.3 Examples of locations (referred
to in performance F6.3.2(a)) where there
is a high risk of injury due to delay in
operation of the systems for visibility
include:
(a) areas where dangerous machinery
is installed:
(b) areas where hazardous processes
take place:
(c) clinical areas of hospitals:
(d) prisons and other buildings in which
people are detained:
(e) any part of an escape route designed for
use at any time by more than 250 people.
F6.3.4 The systems for visibility must
operate continuously in buildings or parts
of buildings in the following risk groups for
the following periods after failure of the
main lighting:
(a) risk group A, until restoration of the main
lighting system:
(b) risk group B, 90 minutes:
(c) risk group C, 30 minutes.
F6.3.5 Despite performance F6.3.4, if a
building or part of a building falls into both
risk group A and risk group B, the systems
for visibility must operate for whichever is
the longer of the periods specified in
performance F6.3.4(a) and (b).
F6.3.6 Signs to indicate escape routes
must be provided as required by Clause
F8“Signs”.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

53
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause F7—WARNING SYSTEMS

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F7.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness due
to lack of awareness of an emergency.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
F7.2 Buildings shall be provided with
appropriate means of warning people to
escape to a safe place [in an emergency].
PERFORMANCE
F7.3.1 A means of warning must alert Performance F7.3 does not apply
people to the emergency in adequate time to Out-buildings[, backcountry huts,]
for them to reach a safe place. or Ancillary buildings.
F7.3.2 Appropriate means of detection
and warning for fire must be provided
within each household unit.
F7.3.3 Appropriate means of warning
for fire and other emergencies must be
provided in buildings as necessary to
satisfy the other performance requirements
of this code.

Clause F7.2 was amended, as from 24 April 2003, by regulation 3(1) Buildings Amendment Regulations (SR 2003/61) by adding the words ““in an
emergency””.
Clause F7.3 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 8 Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the word ““Ancillary”” for the word ““Ancilliary””.
Clause F7.3 was substituted, as from 24 April 2003, by regulation 3(2) Buildings Amendment Regulations (SR 2003/61).
Schedule 1 clause F7.3.1: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 9 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment Regulations 2008
(SR 2008/358).

54 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause F8—SIGNS

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
F8.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury or illness
resulting from inadequate identification
of escape routes, or of hazards within
or about the building,
(b) Safeguard people from loss of amenity
due to inadequate direction, and
(c) Ensure that people with disabilities are Objective F8.1(c) shall apply only Note: Section
47A is in the
to carry out normal activities and processes to those buildings to which Building Act
within buildings. [section 47A of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
F8.2 Signs shall be provided in and about Requirement F8.2 shall not apply 2004 is
section 118.
buildings to identify: to Detached Dwellings, or within
household units of Multi-unit
Dwellings.
(a) Escape routes,
(b) Emergency related safety features,
(c) Potential hazards, and
(d) Accessible routes and facilities for
people with disabilities.
PERFORMANCE
F8.3.1 Signs shall be clearly visible and
readily understandable under all conditions
of foreseeable use.
F8.3.2 Signs indicating potential hazards
shall be provided in sufficient locations
to notify people before they encounter
the hazard.
F8.3.3 Signs to facilitate escape shall:
(a) Be provided in sufficient locations to
identify escape routes and guide people
to a safe place, and
[(b) Remain visible during failure of the
main lighting for the period required by
performance F6.3.4 and performance
F6.3.5.]
F8.3.4 Signs shall be provided in sufficient
locations to identify accessible routes
and facilities provided for people with
disabilities.

The limits on application to clause F8.1(c) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.
Clause F8.3.3(b) was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 6(4) Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

55
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

G Services and Facilities

Clause G1—PERSONAL HYGIENE

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G1.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from illness caused
by infection or contamination,
(b) Safeguard people from loss of amenity
arising from the absence of appropriate
personal hygiene facilities, and
(c) Ensure people with disabilities are able Objective G1.1(c) shall apply only Note: Section
47A is in the
to carry out normal activities and processes to those buildings to which Building Act
within buildings. [section 47A of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
G1.2 Buildings shall be provided with 2004 is
section 118.
appropriate spaces and facilities for
personal hygiene.
PERFORMANCE
G1.3.1 Sanitary fixtures shall be provided in
sufficient number and be appropriate for
the people who are intended to use them.
G1.3.2 Sanitary fixtures shall be located,
constructed and installed to:
(a) Facilitate sanitation,
(b) Avoid risk of food contamination,
(c) Avoid harbouring dirt or germs,
(d) Provide appropriate privacy,
(e) Avoid affecting occupants of adjacent
spaces from the presence of unpleasant
odours, accumulation of offensive matter,
or other source of annoyance,
(f) Allow effective cleaning,
(g) Discharge to a plumbing and drainage
system as required by clause G13 “Foul
water” when water-borne disposal is
used, and
(h) Provide a healthy safe disposal system
when non-water-borne disposal is used.
G1.3.3 Facilities for personal hygiene shall
be provided in convenient locations.
G1.3.4 Personal hygiene facilities provided Performance G1.3.4 shall not apply
for people with disabilities shall be to Housing, Outbuildings, [backcountry
accessible. huts,] Ancillary buildings, and to
Industrial buildings where no more

than 10 people are employed.

The limits on application to clause G1.1(c) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.
Schedule 1 clause G1.3.4: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 10 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment Regulations
2008 (SR 2008/358).

56 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G2—LAUNDERING

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G2.1 The objective of this provision is
to ensure:
(a) Adequate amenities for people to
do laundering, and
(b) That people with disabilities are able Objective G2.1(b) shall apply Note: Section
47A is in the
to carry out normal activities and processes to those buildings to which Building Act
within buildings. [section 47A of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
G2.2 Buildings shall be provided with Requirement G2.2 shall apply only 2004 is
section 118.
adequate space and facilities for to Housing, old people’s homes,
laundering. early childhood centres, camping
grounds and work camps.

PERFORMANCE
G2.3.1 Facilities shall have capacity for
the intended use, and consist of fixtures,
or space and services for appliances.
G2.3.2 Space shall be adequate in size
to provide for the installation and use of
fixtures or appliances.
G2.3.3 Space and facilities shall be
provided within each accommodation
unit or may be grouped elsewhere in
a convenient location.
G2.3.4 Accessible facilities shall be Performance G2.3.4 shall apply
provided for people with disabilities. only to camping grounds.

The limits on application to clause G2.1(b) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

57
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G3—FOOD PREPARATION AND PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G3.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from illness due
to contamination,
(b) Enable hygienic food preparation
without loss of amenity, and
(c) Ensure that people with disabilities Note: Section
Objective G3.1(c) shall apply only 47A is in the
are able to carry out normal activities to those buildings to which Building Act
and processes within buildings. [section 47A of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
section in the
Building Act
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT 2004 is
section 118.
G3.2.1 Buildings shall be provided with Requirement G3.2.1 shall apply to
space and facilities for the hygienic storage, Housing, work camps, old people’s
preparation and cooking of food, that are homes and early childhood centres,
adequate for the intended use of the and where appropriate shall also apply
building. to Commercial and Industrial buildings
whose intended uses include the
manufacture, preparation, packaging
or storage of food.
G3.2.2 Buildings used for the storage,
manufacture or processing of food,
including animal products, shall be
constructed to safeguard the contents from
contamination.
[G3.2.3] Buildings used for the medical
treatment of humans or animals, or the
reception of dead bodies, shall be
constructed to avoid the spread of
contamination from the building contents.
PERFORMANCE
G3.3.1 Food preparation facilities shall be
hygienic and include:
(a) Space for a refrigerator, or a perishable Performance G3.3.1(a) and (b) shall
food storage area capable of being cooled apply to Housing, work camps, old
and protected from vermin and insects, people’s homes, early childhood
centres and Commercial or Industrial
(b) Means for food rinsing, utensil washing buildings whose intended uses include
and waste water disposal, the handling of perishable food.

(c) Means for cooking food, and Performance G3.3.1(c) shall apply
to Housing, work camps, old people’s
homes and early childhood centres.

(d) Space and a surface for food Performance G3.3.1(d) shall apply
preparation. to Housing, work camps, old people’s
homes and early childhood centres.

Clause G3 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 9 Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the expression ““G3.2.3”” for the expression ““G3.2.2”” where it secondly occurred under the heading ““FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT””.
The limits on application to clause G3.1(c) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.

58 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G3—FOOD PREPARATION AND PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

G3.3.2 Spaces for food preparation and
utensil washing shall have:
(a) Interior linings and work surfaces shall
be impervious and easily cleaned,
(b) All building elements constructed with Performance G3.3.2(b) shall apply
materials which are free from hazardous to Housing, work camps, old people’s
substances which could cause homes and early childhood centres,
contamination to the building contents, and and where appropriate shall also apply
to Commercial and Industrial buildings
whose intended uses include the
manufacture, preparation, packaging
or storage of food.

(c) Exposed building elements located and Performance G3.3.2(c) shall not apply
shaped to avoid the accumulation of dirt. to Housing.
G3.3.3 An adequate energy supply shall
be provided, appropriately located for use
by cooking and refrigeration appliances.
G3.3.4 Space and facilities shall be
provided within each household unit,
or grouped elsewhere in a convenient
location.
G3.3.5 Where facilities are provided for Performance G3.3.5 shall apply only
people with disabilities they shall be to camping grounds and accessible
accessible. accommodation units in Communal
Residential buildings.

G3.3.6 Spaces in buildings shall be Performance G3.3.6 shall apply to

protected from the likelihood of Commercial or Industrial buildings
contamination or vermin entering whose intended uses include the
areas used for the storage, processing handling of perishable food, the
or preparation of food, and shall have medical treatment of humans or
a means of preventing contamination animals, the slaughter of animals
spreading from these areas to or the reception of dead bodies.
other spaces.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

59
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G4—VENTILATION

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G4.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from illness or loss of
amenity due to lack of fresh air.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G4.2 Spaces within buildings shall be
provided with adequate ventilation
consistent with their maximum occupancy
[and their intended use].
PERFORMANCE
G4.3.1 Spaces within buildings shall have
means of ventilation with outdoor air that
will provide an adequate number of air
changes to maintain air purity.
G4.3.2 Mechanical air-handling systems
shall be constructed and maintained in a
manner that prevents harmful bacteria,
pathogens and allergens from multiplying
within them.
G4.3.3 Buildings shall have a means
of collecting or otherwise removing the
following products from the spaces in
which they are generated:
(a) Cooking fumes and odours,
(b) [Moisture] from laundering, utensil
washing, bathing and showering,
(c) Odours from sanitary and waste storage
spaces,
(d) Gaseous by-products and excessive
moisture from commercial or industrial
processes,
(e) Poisonous fumes and gases,
(f) Flammable fumes and gases,
(g) Airborne particles,
(h) Bacteria, viruses or other pathogens, or
(i) Products of combustion.
G4.3.4 Contaminated air shall be disposed
of in a way which avoids creating a
nuisance or hazard to people and other
property.
G4.3.5 The quantities of air supplied for
ventilation shall meet the additional
demands of any fixed combustion
appliances.

Clause G4.2 Schedule was amended, as from 11 September 1997, by regulation 3(1) Building Amendment Regulations 1997 (SR 1997/156) by inserting
the words ““and their intended use””.
Clause G4.3.3(b) Schedule was amended, as from 11 September 1997, by regulation 3(1) Building Amendment Regulations 1997 (SR 1997/156)
by substituting the word ““Moisture”” for the word ““Steam””.

60 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G5—INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G5.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from illness caused
by low air temperature,
(b) Safeguard people from injury or loss
of amenity caused by inadequate activity
space,
(c) Safeguard people from injury caused
by unsafe installations, and
(d) Ensure that people with disabilities are Objective G5.1(d) shall apply to those Note: Section
47A is in the
able to carry out normal activities and buildings to which [section 47A of the Building Act
processes within buildings. Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
G5.2.1 Buildings shall be constructed to 2004 is
section 118.
provide:
(a) An adequate, controlled interior Requirement G5.2.1(a) shall apply only
temperature, to habitable spaces, bathrooms and
recreation rooms in old people’s homes
and early childhood centres.

(b) Adequate activity space for the intended Requirement G5.2.1(b) shall apply only
use, and to [old people’s homes].
(c) Accessible spaces and facilities. Requirement G5.2.1(c) shall apply only
to Communal Residential, Communal
Non-residential, and Commercial
buildings.
G5.2.2 Heating appliances in buildings
shall be installed in a way that reduces the
likelihood of injury.
PERFORMANCE
G5.3.1 Habitable spaces, bathrooms and Performance G5.3.1 shall apply only
recreation rooms shall have provision for to old people’s homes an early
maintaining the internal temperature at no childhood centres.
less than 16°C measured at 750mm above
floor level, while the space is adequately
ventilated.
G5.3.2 Heating appliances, and any Performance G5.3.2 shall apply only
attached cables, pipes or other fittings to old people’s homes and early
shall be securely fixed in place. childhood centres.
G5.3.3 Habitable spaces shall have Performance G5.3.3 shall apply only
sufficient space for activity, furniture, to old people’s homes.
and sanitary and mobility aids.
G5.3.4 Where reception counters or desks Performance G5.3.4 applies only to
are provided for public use, at least one Communal Residential, Communal
counter or desk shall be accessible. Non-Residential, and Commercial
buildings.

Clause G5 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 10 Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the expression ““old people’s homes”” for the expression ““old people’s homes”” in italics in the second column, opposite clause G5.2.1(b)
The limits on application to clause G5.1(d) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

61
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G5—INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

G5.3.5 Buildings shall be provided with Performance G5.3.5 applies only to:
listening systems which enable enhanced (a) Communal Non-Residential
hearing by people with hearing aids. assembly spaces occupied by
more than 250 people, and
(b) Any theatre, cinema, or public
hall, and
(c) Assembly spaces in old people’s
homes occupied by more than
20 people.
G5.3.6 Enhanced listening systems shall be
identified by signs complying with Clause
F8 “Signs”.

62 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G6—AIRBORNE AND IMPACT SOUND

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G6.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from illness or loss of
amenity as a result of undue noise being
transmitted between abutting occupancies.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G6.2 Building elements which are common
between occupancies, shall be constructed
to prevent undue noise transmission from
other occupancies or common spaces, to
the habitable spaces of household units.
PERFORMANCE
G6.3.1 The Sound Transmission Class of
walls, floors and ceilings, shall be no less
than 55.
G6.3.2 The Impact Insulation Class of
floors shall be no less than 55.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

63
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G7—NATURAL LIGHT

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G7.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from illness or loss of
amenity due to isolation from natural light
and the outside environment.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G7.2 Habitable spaces shall provide Requirement G7.2 shall apply only
adequate openings for natural light and for to Housing, old people’s homes and
a visual awareness of the outside early childhood centres.
environment.
PERFORMANCE
G7.3.1 Natural light shall provide an
illuminance of no less than 30 lux at floor
level for 75 percent of the standard year.
G7.3.2 Openings to give awareness of the
outside shall be transparent and provided in
suitable locations.

64 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G8—ARTIFICIAL LIGHT

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G8.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury due to lack
of adequate lighting.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G8.2 Spaces within buildings used by Requirement G8.2 shall apply to:
people, shall be provided with adequate (a) All exitways in Multi-unit Dwellings,
artificial lighting which, when activated Group Dwellings and Communal
in the absence of sufficient natural light, Residential [(except backcountry
will enable safe movement. huts)], Communal Non-residential,
Commercial and Industrial
buildings,
(b) All access routes except those
in Outbuildings [, backcountry
huts,] and Ancillary buildings, and
(c) All common spaces within Multi-
unit Dwellings, Group Dwellings,
and Communal Residential
[(except backcountry huts)]
and Communal Non-residential
buildings.

PERFORMANCE
G8.3 Illuminance at floor level shall be no [Performance G8.3 does not apply
less than 20 lux. during a failure of the main lighting,
when the requirements in Clause F6
“Visibility in escape routes” apply.]

Schedule 1 clause G8.2 paragraph (a): amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 11(1) of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment
Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/358).
Schedule 1 clause G8.2 paragraph (b): amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 11(2) of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment
Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/358).
Schedule 1 clause G8.2 paragraph (c): amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 11(3) of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment
Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/358).
Clause G8.3 was amended, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 6(5) Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124) by substituting the limit
on application.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

65
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G9—ELECTRICITY

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G9.1 The objective of this provision is to
ensure that:
(a) In buildings supplied with electricity,
the electrical installation has safeguards
against outbreak of fire and personal
injury, and
(b) People with disabilities are able to carry Objective G9.1(b) shall apply only Note: Section
47A is in the
out normal activities and processes within to those buildings to which Building Act
buildings. [section 47A of the Act] applies. 1991. The
equivalent
section in the
Building Act
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT 2004 is
section 118.
G9.2 Where provided in a building,
electrical installations shall be safe for their
intended use.
PERFORMANCE
G9.3.1 The electrical installation shall
incorporate systems to:
(a) Protect people from contact with parts
of the installation which are live during
normal operation, and to prevent parts of
the installation or other building elements
becoming live during fault conditions,
(b) Permit the safe isolation of the
installation and of electrical fittings and
appliances,
(c) Safeguard people from excessive
temperatures resulting from either normal
operation of electrical equipment, or from
currents which could exceed the installation
rating,
(d) Safeguard people from injury which may
result from electromechanical stress in
electrical components caused by currents
in excess of the installation rating,
(e) Protect building elements from risk of
ignition, impairment of their physical or
mechanical properties, or function, due to
temperature increases resulting from heat
transfer or electric arc,
(f) Operate safely in its intended
environment, and
(g) Safeguard against ignition of the
surrounding atmosphere where it is
potentially flammable or explosive.

The limits on application to clause G9.1(b) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.

66 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G9—ELECTRICITY (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

G9.3.2 An electrical installation supplying
an essential service shall:
(a) Maintain the supply for a time
appropriate to that service, and
(b) Be capable of being isolated from the
supply system, independently of the
remainder of the installation.
G9.3.3 An electrical installation connected
to an electrical supply system, shall contain
safeguards which protect the safety
features of the external supply.
G9.3.4 In buildings intended for use by Performance G9.3.4 shall not
people with disabilities, light switches and apply to Housing, Outbuildings,
plug socket outlets shall be accessible Ancillary buildings, and to Industrial
and usable. buildings where no more than
10 people are employed.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

67
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G10—PIPED SERVICES

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G10.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness
caused by extreme temperatures or
hazardous substances associated with
building services.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G10.2 In buildings provided with potentially
hazardous services containing hot, cold,
flammable, corrosive or toxic fluids, the
installations shall be constructed to provide
adequate safety for people.
PERFORMANCE
G10.3.1 Piping systems shall be
constructed to avoid the likelihood of:
(a) Significant leakage or damage during
normal or reasonably foreseeable abnormal
conditions,
(b) Detrimental contamination of the
contents by other substances,
(c) Adverse interaction between services,
or between piping and electrical systems,
and
(d) People having contact with pipes which
could cause them harm.
G10.3.2 Provision shall be made for the
ready removal of moisture or condensate
in gas pipes.
G10.3.3 Pipes shall be protected against
corrosion in the environment of their use.
G10.3.4 Piping systems shall be identified
with markings if the contents are not readily
apparent from the location or associated
equipment.
G10.3.5 Enclosed spaces shall be
constructed to avoid the likelihood of
accumulating vented or leaking gas.
G10.3.6 Piped systems shall have isolation
devices which permit the installation or
individual items of apparatus to be isolated
from the supply system, for maintenance,
testing, fault detection and repair.

68 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G11—GAS AS AN ENERGY SOURCE

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G11.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from injury arising
from the use of gas as an energy source,
(b) Safeguard people and other property
from the risk of fire or explosion, and
(c) Safeguard people from loss of amenity
due to the gas supply being inadequate for
the intended use.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G11.2 In buildings where gas is used as an
energy source, the supply system shall be
safe and adequate for its intended use.
PERFORMANCE
G11.3.1 Supply systems shall be
constructed to maintain a safe pressure
range appropriate to the appliances and the
type of gas used.
G11.3.2 The gas supply to all appliances in
a single ventilated space, shall be fitted
with an automatic cut-off activated by
failure of any continuous forced ventilation
system used for combustion, ventilation or
safe operation of a fixed gas appliance.
G11.3.3 A flued fixed gas appliance shall
have no adverse interaction with any other
flued appliance.
G11.3.4 Supply systems shall have isolation
devices which permit the whole installation,
or individual items of apparatus, to be
isolated from the supply for maintenance,
testing, fault detection or repair.
G11.3.5 Where gas is supplied from an external
source, the supply system within buildings
shall be constructed to avoid the likelihood of:
(a) Contamination of the external supply
from other gas sources within the building,
(b) Adverse effects on the pressure of the
external supply, and
(c) The external supply pipe acting as an
earthing conductor.
G11.3.6 The location and installation of
meters and service risers shall meet the
requirements of the network utility operator.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

69
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

[Clause G12—WATER SUPPLIES

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G12.1 The objective of this provision is to—
(a) safeguard people from illness or injury
caused by contaminated water:
(b) safeguard people from injury caused by
hot water system explosion, or from contact
with excessively hot water:
(c) safeguard people from loss of amenity
arising from—
(i) a lack of hot water for personal hygiene; or
(ii) water for human consumption that is
offensive in appearance, odour, or taste:

(d) ensure that people with disabilities are Objective G12.1(d) applies only to Note: Section
47A is in the
able to carry out normal activities and those buildings to which section Building Act
functions within buildings. 47A of the Act applies. 1991. The
equivalent
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT section in the
Building Act
G12.2 Buildings provided with water 2004 is
section 118.
outlets, sanitary fixtures, or sanitary
appliances must have safe and adequate
water supplies.
PERFORMANCE
G12.3.1 Water intended for human [[Performance G12.3.1 does not
consumption, food preparation, utensil apply to backcountry huts.]]
washing, or oral hygiene must be potable
G12.3.2 A potable water supply system
must be—
(a) protected from contamination; and
(b) installed in a manner that avoids the
likelihood of contamination within the
system and the water main; and
(c) installed using components that will
not contaminate the water.
G12.3.3 A non-potable water supply system
used for personal hygiene must be installed
in a manner that avoids the likelihood of
illness or injury being caused by the
system.
G12.3.4 Water pipes and outlets provided
with non-potable water must be clearly
identified.

Clause G12 was substituted, as from 3 January 2002, by regulation 3(10) Building Amendment Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/374).
Schedule 1 clause G12.3.1: amended, on 31 October 2008, by regulation 12 of the Building (Building Code: Backcountry Huts) Amendment Regulations
2008 (SR 2008/358).
The limits on application to clause G12.1(d) were amended consequential on the Health Reforms (Transitional Provisions) Act 1993, as from
29 December 2000, by regulation 4(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119), by substituting the expression ““section 47A of the Act””
for the expression ““section 25 of the Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act 1975””.

70 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G12—WATER SUPPLIES (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

G12.3.5 Sanitary fixtures and sanitary
appliances must be provided with hot water
when intended to be used for—
(a) utensil washing; and
(b) personal washing, showering, or bathing Performance G12.3.5(b) applies
to only housing, retirement homes,
and early childhood centres.
G12.3.6 If hot water is provided to sanitary
fixtures and sanitary appliances used for
personal hygiene, it must be delivered
at a temperature that avoids the likelihood
of scalding.
G12.3.7 Water supply systems must be
installed in a manner that—
(a) pipes water to sanitary fixtures and
sanitary appliances at flow rates that are
adequate for the correct functioning of
those fixtures and appliances under normal
conditions; and
(b) avoids the likelihood of leakage; and
(c) allows reasonable access to components
likely to need maintenance; and
(d) allows the system and any backflow
prevention devices to be isolated for testing
and maintenance.
G12.3.8 Vessels used for producing or
storing hot water must be provided with
safety features that—
(a) relieve excessive pressure during both
normal and abnormal conditions; and
(b) limit temperatures to avoid the likelihood
of flash steam production in the event of
rupture.
G12.3.9 A hot water system must be
capable of being controlled to prevent
the growth of legionella bacteria.
G12.3.10 Water supply taps must be Performance G12.3.10 applies Note: Section
47A is in the
accessible and usable for people with only to those buildings to which Building Act
disabilities. section 47A of the Act applies.] 1991. The
equivalent
section in the
Building Act
2004 is
section 118.

Clause G12.3.7 was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 11 Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by substituting
the word ““legionella”” for the word ““legionalla””.

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

71
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G13—Foul water

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G13.1 The objective of this provision is to:
(a) Safeguard people from illness due to
infection or contamination resulting from
personal hygiene activities, and
(b) Safeguard people from loss of amenity
due to the presence of unpleasant odours
or the accumulation of offensive matter
resulting from foul water disposal.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
[G13.2 Buildings in which sanitary fixtures
and sanitary appliances using water-borne
waste disposal are installed must be
provided with—]
[(a) an adequate plumbing and drainage
system to carry foul water to appropriate
outfalls; and]
[(b) if no sewer is available, an adequate
system for the storage, treatment, and
disposal of foul water.]
PERFORMANCE
G13.3.1 The plumbing system shall be
constructed to:
(a) Convey foul water from buildings to
a drainage system,
(b) Avoid the likelihood of blockage and
leakage,
(c) Avoid the likelihood of foul air and
gases entering buildings, and
(d) provide reasonable access for
maintenance and clearing blockages.
G13.3.2 The drainage system shall:
(a) Convey foul water to an appropriate
outfall,
(b) Be constructed to avoid the likelihood
of blockage,
(c) Be supported, jointed and protected
in a way that will avoid the likelihood of
penetration of roots or the entry of
ground water,
(d) Be provided with reasonable access
for maintenance and clearing blockages,

Clause G13.2 was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 7(1) Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

72 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G13—Foul water (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

(e) Be ventilated to avoid the likelihood
of foul air and gases accumulating in the
drainage system and sewer, and
(f) Be constructed to avoid the likelihood
of damage from superimposed loads or
normal ground movement.
G13.3.3 Where a sewer connection is
available, the drainage system shall be
connected to the sewer, and the connection
shall be made in a manner that avoids
damage to the sewer and is to the approval
of the network utility operator.
[G13.3.4 If no sewer is available, facilities
for the storage, treatment, and disposal of
foul water must be constructed—]
[(a) with adequate capacity for the volume
of foul water and the frequency of disposal;
and]
[(b) with adequate vehicle access for
collection if required; and]
[(c) to avoid the likelihood of contamination
of any potable water supplies in compliance
with Clause G12 “Water supplies”; and]
[(d) to avoid the likelihood of contamination
of soils, ground water, and waterways
except as permitted under the Resource
Management Act 1991; and]
[(e) from materials that are impervious both
to the foul water for which disposal is
required, and to water; and]
[(f) to avoid the likelihood of blockage and
leakage; and]
[(g) to avoid the likelihood of foul air and
gases accumulating within or entering into
buildings; and]
[(h) to avoid the likelihood of unauthorised
access by people; and]
[(i) to permit easy cleaning and
maintenance; and]
[(j) to avoid the likelihood of damage from
superimposed loads or normal ground
movement; and]
[(k) if those facilities are buried
underground, to resist hydrostatic uplift
pressures.]

Clause G13.3.4 was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 7(2) Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

73
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G14—INDUSTRIAL LIQUID WASTE

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G14.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness
caused by infection or contamination
resulting from industrial liquid waste.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G14.2 Buildings, in which industrial liquid
waste is generated shall be provided with
adequate spaces and facilities for the safe
and hygienic collection, holding, treatment
and disposal of the waste.
PERFORMANCE
G14.3.1 Industrial liquid waste shall be
conveyed to storage containers and within
disposal systems in a way which will:
(a) Transfer wastes from buildings safely
and hygienically,
(b) Avoid the likelihood of blockage and
leakage,
(c) Avoid the likelihood of foul air and gases
entering buildings, and
(d) Provide reasonable access for clearing
of blockages.
[G14.3.2 Facilities for the storage,
treatment, and disposal of industrial liquid
waste must be constructed—]
[(a) with adequate capacity for the volume
of waste and the frequency of disposal;
and]
[(b) with adequate vehicle access for
collection if required; and]
[(c) to avoid the likelihood of contamination
of any potable water supplies in compliance
with Clause G12 “Water supplies”; and]
[(d) to avoid the likelihood of contamination
of soils, ground water, and waterways
except as permitted under the Resource
Management Act 1991; and]
[(e) from materials that are impervious both
to the waste for which disposal is required,
and to water; and]
[(f) to avoid the likelihood of blockage and
leakage; and]

Clause G14.3.2. (d) was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 12 Building Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263) by omitting
the words ““by a resource consent given””.
Clause G14.3.2 was substituted, as from 21 June 2007, by regulation 8 Building Amendment Regulations 2007 (SR 2007/124).

74 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand B uilding code handbook

Clause G14—INDUSTRIAL LIQUID WASTE (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

[(g) to avoid the likelihood of foul air and
gases accumulating within or entering into
buildings; and]
[(h) to avoid the likelihood of unauthorised
access by people; and]
[(i) to permit easy cleaning and
maintenance; and]
[(j) to avoid the likelihood of damage from
superimposed loads or normal ground
movement; and]
[(k) if those facilities are buried
underground, to resist hydrostatic uplift
pressures.]

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

75
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause G15—SOLID WASTE

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
G15.1 The objective of this provision is to
safeguard people from injury or illness caused
by infection or contamination from solid waste.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
G15.2 Buildings shall be provided with Requirement G15.2 shall not apply
space and facilities for the collection, and to Detached Dwellings, household units
safe hygienic holding prior to disposal, of of Multi-unit Dwellings, Outbuildings
solid waste arising from the intended use or Ancilliary buildings if there is
of the buildings. independent access or private open
space at ground level.

PERFORMANCE
G15.3.1 Where provision is made within
buildings for the collection and temporary
holding of solid waste, the spaces provided
shall be:
(a) Of sufficient size for the volume of waste
and frequency of disposal,
(b) Provided with reasonable access for the
depositing and collection of the waste,
(c) Capable of maintaining sanitary
conditions having regard to the types of
waste and storage containers, and
(d) Capable of maintaining the appropriate
temperature for the type of waste stored.
G15.3.2 Where a rubbish chute is provided,
it shall be located and constructed to:
(a) Convey the solid waste to an
appropriate storage container,
(b) Avoid the likelihood of blockage or leakage,
(c) Permit easy cleaning and maintenance,
(d) Avoid the likelihood of foul air or gases
accumulating or entering the building,
(e) Avoid the likelihood of the spread of fire
beyond the refuse chute,
(f) Have openings that allow waste to be
[safely] deposited in the chute, and
(g) Restrict access by children, animals and
vermin.
G15.3.3 Where it is acceptable to the network
utility operator, solid waste which has been
suitably treated for disposal to a sewer may
be discharged via a foul water drain
complying with Clause G13 “Foul water”.

Clause G15.3.2(f) was amended, as from 22 December 1994, by regulation 13 Buildings Regulations 1992, Amendment No 1 (SR 1994/263)
by substituting the word ““safely”” for the word ““safety””.

76 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Building Code new zealand Building code handbook

H energy efficiency
[Clause H1—ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROVISIONS

Provisions Limits on application

OBJECTIVE
H1.1 The objective of this provision is to Objective H 1.1 applies only when
facilitate efficient use of energy. the energy is sourced from a network
utility operator or a depletable energy
resource.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENT
H1.2 Buildings must be constructed to
achieve an adequate degree of energy
efficiency when that energy is used for—
[[(a) modifying temperature, modifying [[Requirement H1.2(a) does not
humidity, providing ventilation, or doing apply to assembly service buildings,
all or any of those things; or]] industrial buildings, outbuildings,
or ancillary buildings.]]

(b) providing hot water to [[and from]]

sanitary fixtures or sanitary appliances,
or both; or
(c) providing artificial lighting Requirement H1.2(c) applies only to
commercial buildings and communal
non-residential buildings whose floor
area is greater than 300 m2.
PERFORMANCE
H1.3.1 The building envelope enclosing
spaces where the temperature or humidity
(or both) are modified must be constructed to—
(a) provide adequate thermal resistance; and
(b) limit uncontrollable airflow.
H1.3.2 …
[[H1.3.2A …
[[H1.3.2B …
[[ [H1.3.2C] …
[[ [H1.3.2D] …
[[ [H1.3.2E Buildings must be constructed [Performance H1.3.2E applies only
to ensure that their building performance to Housing.] ]]
index does not exceed 1.55.]
H1.3.3 Account must be taken of physical
conditions likely to affect energy
performance of buildings, including—
(a) the thermal mass of building elements;
and
(b) the building orientation and shape; and
(c) the airtightness of the building envelope;
and

Clause H1 was substituted, as from 29 December 2000, by regulation 5 Building Amendment Regulations 2000 (SR 2000/119).
Schedule 1 clause H1.2(a): substituted, on 1 February 2009, by regulation 5 of the Building (Building Code: Energy Efficiency of Temperature, Humidity,
and Ventilation Systems) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/97).
Schedule 1 clause H1.2(b): amended, on 1 February 2009, by regulation 4 of the Building (Building Code: Energy Efficiency of Domestic Hot Water
Systems) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2009/256).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2: revoked, on 31 October 2007, by regulation 5 of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2A: revoked, on 30 June 2008, by regulation 6 of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).

Department of Building a nd Housing 3 0 September 2010

77
 new zealand B uilding code handbook Building Code

Clause H1—ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROVISIONS (continued)

Provisions Limits on application

(d) the heat gains from services, processes
and occupants; and
(e) the local climate; and
(f) heat gains from solar radiation.
[[H1.3.4 Systems for the heating, storage,
or distribution of hot water to and from
sanitary fixtures or sanitary appliances
must, having regard to the energy source
used,—]]
[[(a) limit the energy lost in the heating
process; and]]
[[(b) be constructed to limit heat losses from [[Performance H1.3.4(b) does not
storage vessels and from distribution apply to individual storage vessels that
systems; and]] are greater than 700 litres in capacity.]]
[[(c) be constructed to facilitate the efficient [[Performance H1.3.4(c) applies only
use of hot water.]] to housing.]]
H.1.3.5 Artificial lighting fixtures must— Performance H1.3.5 does not apply
to lighting provided solely to meet the
requirements of clause F6.

(a) be located and sized to limit energy use,

consistent with the intended use of space;
and
(b) be fitted with a means to enable light
intensities to be reduced, consistent with
reduced activity in the space.
[[H1.3.6 HVAC systems must be located, [[Performance H1.3.6 applies only
constructed, and installed to—]] to commercial buildings.]]
[[(a) limit energy use, consistent with the
intended use of space; and]]
[[(b) enable them to be maintained to
ensure their use of energy remains limited,
consistent with the intended use of space.]]

Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2B: revoked, on 30 June 2008, by regulation 6 of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2C: revoked, on 30 September 2008, by regulation 7(1) of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2C: inserted, on 30 June 2008, by regulation 6 of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2D: revoked, on 30 September 2008, by regulation 7(1) of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2D: inserted, on 30 June 2008, by regulation 6 of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.2E: inserted, on 30 September 2008, by regulation 7(1) of the Building Amendment Regulations (No 2) 2007 (SR 2007/226).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.4: substituted, on 1 February 2009, by regulation 5 of the Building (Building Code: Energy Efficiency of Domestic Hot Water
Systems) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2009/256).
Schedule 1 clause H1.3.6: added, on 1 February 2009, by regulation 6 of the Building (Building Code: Energy Efficiency of Temperature, Humidity,
and Ventilation Systems) Amendment Regulations 2008 (SR 2008/97).

78 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Publications Referenced in Handbook

and Compliance Documents
For the purposes of New Zealand Building Code compliance, acceptable reference documents
include only the quoted edition and specific amendments as listed below.
Dates in brackets indicate that the Standard was reviewed and reissued without change that year.
Compliance Documents in which the particular references are quoted are identified by the relevant
Building Code Clause and the number of the Verification Method or Acceptable Solution.
For example: B1/VM1/AS3 indicates that the reference occurs in Verification Method 1,
and Acceptable Solution 3 of the Compliance Document for Clause B1 Structure.
Where references are quoted in the Compliance Schedule Handbook, these are identified by the
letters HB and the relevant section. For example: HB/SS 3 indicates that the reference occurs in
the content guide for SS 3 in the Compliance Schedule Handbook.
Places where the reference documents are quoted, are more specifically identified by paragraph
or table, in the reference list contained in each Compliance Document.

Contents Page
Standards New Zealand 79
Standards Australia 91
British Standards Institution 95
New Zealand Publications (other than Standards) 98
Australian Publications (other than Standards) 100
Australia/New Zealand Publications (other than Standards) 100
British Publications (other than Standards) 101
International Publications 101
Amend 11
Sep 2010 US Publications 103

Where quoted
Standards New Zealand

NZS/BS 21: 1985 Specification for pipe threads for tubes and fittings G10/AS1, G14/VM1
where pressure-tight joints are made on the threads
(metric dimensions)
Amend: 1

Amend 11
Sep 2010

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
79
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted

NZS/BS 476:- Fire tests on building materials and structures C/AS1

Part 20: 1987 Method for determination of the fire resistance of C/AS1
elements of construction (general principles)
Amend: 6487
Part 21: 1987 Methods for determination of the fire resistance C/AS1
of loadbearing elements of construction
Part 22: 1987 Methods for determination of the fire resistance C/AS1
of non-loadbearing elements of construction
NZS/BS 970:- Specification for wrought steels for mechanical
and allied engineering purposes
Part 1: 1991 General inspection and testing procedures and E1/AS1
specific requirements for carbon, carbon manganese,
alloy and stainless steels
Amend: 1
NZS 1170: Structural Design Actions B1/VM1, G12/AS2
Part 5: 2004 Earthquake design actions – New Zealand standard
AS/NZS 1170: Structural Design Actions
Part 0: 2002 General principles B1/VM1/VM4, C/AS1, G12/AS2
Amends: 1, 2 and 4 G10/AS1
Part 1: 2002 Permanent, imposed and other actions B1/VM1/VM4, G12/AS2
Amend: 1
Part 2: 2002 Wind Actions B1/VM1/VM4, G12/AS2
Amend: 1
Part 3: 2003 Snow and ice actions B1/VM1/VM4, G12/AS2
Amend: 1
AS/NZS 1221: 1997 Fire hose reels C/AS1
Amend: 1
AS/NZS 1254: 2002 Unplasticised PVC pipes and fittings for storm E1/AS1
and surface water applications
AS/NZS 1260: 2002 PVC pipes and fittings for drain, waste and vent G13/AS1/AS2,
applications G14/VM1, SH/AS1
AS/NZS 1260: 2009 PVC-U Pipes and fittings for drain, waste and E1/AS1
Amend 11 vent application
Sep 2010
NZS/BS 1387: 1985 Specification for screwed and socketed steel tubes G10/AS1, G12/AS1,
(1990) and tubulars and for plain end steel tubes suitable G14/VM1
for welding or screwing to BS 21 pipe threads
Amend: 1
AS 1397: 2001 Steel sheet and strip – Hot-dipped zinc-coated E1/AS1
or aluminium/zinc-coated
AS/NZS 1477: 2006 PVC pipes and fittings for pressure applications G12/AS1, G14/VM1
Amend 11
Sep 2010
Amend: 1
AS/NZS 1530:- Methods for fire tests on building materials,
components and structures
Part 3: 1999 Simultaneous determination of ignitability, flame C/AS1
propagation, heat release and smoke release

80 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
AS/NZS 1546: 1998 On-site domestic wastewater treatment units G14/VM1
Part 1: Septic tanks
AS/NZS 1547: 2000 On-site domestic wastewater management G13/VM4

AS/NZS 1604: Specification for preservative treatment SH/AS1

Part 3: 2002 Plywood
AS/NZS 1646: 2007 Elastomeric seals for waterworks purposes G13/AS2
Amend 11
Sep 2010
NZS/AS 1657: 1992 Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – D1/AS1
Design, construction and installation (known as the
SAA Code for fixed platforms, walkways, stairways,
and ladders)
AS/NZS 1664:- Aluminium structures
Part 1: 1997 Limit state design B1/VM1
Amend: 1
Amend 11
Sep 2010
AS/NZS 1668:- The use of ventilation and air conditioning in
buildings
Part 1: 1998 Fire and smoke control in multi-compartment C/AS1, F7/AS1
buildings

AS/NZS 1680: Interior and workplace lighting F6/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 2006 General principles and recommendations
AS/NZS 1730: 1996 Washbasins G1/AS1

AS/NZS 1734: 1997 Aluminium and aluminium alloys – Flat sheet, E1/AS1, SH /AS1
coiled sheet and plate

AS/NZS 1748: 1997 Timber – Stress graded – Product requirements for B1/VM1
mechanically stress-graded timber

AS/NZS 1859 Reconstituted wood-based panels SH/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 2002 Particleboard
AS/NZS 1905:- Components for the protection of openings in
fire-resistant walls
Part 1: 1997 Fire-resistant doorsets C/AS1, HB/SS 15
AS/NZS 2023: 1995 Baths for ablutionary purposes G1/AS1
AS/NZS 2032: 2006 Installation of PVC pipe systems B1/AS1, E1/AS1,
Amend: 1 G12/AS1,
G13/AS1/AS2/AS3,
Amend 11
Sep 2010 G14/VM1

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
81
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
NZS/AS 2033: 2008 Installation of polyethylene pipe systems B1/AS1, E1/AS1
Amend 11 Amend: 1, 2
Sep 2010
AS/NZS 2243:1 2005 Safety in laboratories – Planning and operational HB/SS 11
aspects
AS/NZS 2243:8 2006 Safety in laboratories – Fume cupboards HB/SS 11
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS/NZS 2269: 2004 Plywood – Structural E2/AS1, SH /AS1
AS/NZS 2280: 1999 Ductile iron pipes and fittings G13/AS2
AS/NZS 2280: 2004 Ductile iron pressure pipes and fittings E1/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1
AS/NZS 2293:- Emergency evacuation lighting for buildings
Amend 11
Sep 2010
Part 2: 1995 Inspection and maintenance HB/SS 4

Amend 11
Sep 2010
NZS 2295: 2006 Pliable, permeable building underlays SH/AS1
NZS/BS 2494: 1990 Specification for elastomeric seals for joints in G14/VM1
pipework and pipelines
AS/NZS 2566: 2002 Buried Flexible pipelines.
Part 1: 1998 Structural Design B1/AS1, E1 /AS1
Part 2: 2002 Installation B1/AS1, E1 /AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS/NZS 2588: 1998 Gypsum plasterboard SH/AS1
AS/NZS 2642:- Polybutylene pipe systems
Part 1: 1994 Polybutylene (PB) pipe extrusion compounds G12/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 2: 1994 Polybutylene (PB) pipe for hot and cold water G12/AS1, G14/VM1
applications
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 3: 1994 Mechanical jointing fittings for use with polybutylene G12/AS1, G14/VM1
(PB) pipes for hot and cold water applications
Amend: 1

AS/NZS 2699: Built-in components for masonry construction. SH/AS1

Part 1: 2000 Wall ties
Part 2: 2000 Connectors and accessories
Part 3: 2002 Lintels and shelf angles (durability requirements)

AS/NZS 2712: 2002 Solar and heat pump water heaters – design and G12/AS2
(until 1 July 2009) construction
AS/NZS 2712: 2007 Solar and heat pump water heaters – design and G12/AS2, SH /AS1
Amend 11 construction
Sep 2010

AS/NZS 2728: 1997 Prefinished/prepainted sheet metal products for E2/AS1

interior/exterior building applications
– Performance requirements

82 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
AS/NZS 2728: 2007 Pre-finished/prepainted sheet metal products SH/AS1
for interior/exterior building applications –
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Performance requirements
AS/NZS 2845:- Water supply
Part 1: 1998 Materials, design and performance requirements G12/AS1
AS/NZS 2904: 1995 Damp-proof courses and flashings E2/AS1
Amend 11 AS/NZS 2908: Cellulose-cement products E2/AS1, SH /AS1
Sep 2010
Part 2: 2000 Flat sheet
AS/NZS 2918: 2001 Domestic solid fuel burning appliances – installation B1/AS3 C/AS1,
SH /AS1

AS/NZS 3000: 2007 Electrical installations G9/VM1/AS1

Amend: 1

NZS 3101:- Concrete structures standard

Part 1: 2006 The design of concrete structures B2/AS1
Amend: 1, 2 B1/VM1
NZS 3106: 2009 Design of concrete structures for the B1/VM1, G14/VM1
storage of liquids

Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 3109: 1997 Specification for concrete construction B1/AS3, SH /AS1
Amend: 1, 2
NZS 3112:- Methods of test for concrete
Part 2: 1986 Tests relating to the determination of strength B1/AS3
of concrete
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1, 2
NZS 3114: 1987 Specification for concrete surface finishes D1/AS1, G15/AS1
Amend: 1
NZS 3116: 1991 Interlocking concrete block paving D1/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010
NZS 3331: 1972 Specification for quality of vitreous china sanitary G1/AS1
appliances
AS/NZS 3350.2.35: 1999 Safety of household and similar electrical G12/AS1, SH /AS1
appliances – Particular requirements –
Instantaneous water heaters
Amends: 1, 2
Amend 11
Sep 2010
NZS 3404:- Steel structures standard
Part 1: 1997 Steel structures standard B1/VM1
Amend: 1, 2

Amend 11
Sep 2010

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
83
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
AS/NZS 3500:- National plumbing and drainage code
Part 1: 2003 Water services G12/VM1/AS1
Amend: 1
Part 2: 2003 Sanitary plumbing and drainage G13/AS1/VM2/AS2/
Amend: 1 AS3
Part 4: 2003 Heated water services G12/VM1/AS1/AS2
Amend: 1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 5: 2003 Domestic installation SH/AS1
NZS 3501: 1976 Specification for copper tubes for water, gas, G10/AS1,
and sanitation G13/AS1/AS2
Amend: 1, 2 and 3 G12/AS1
NZS 3502: 1976 Specification for copper and copper alloy tubes for G10/AS1
general engineering purposes
AS/NZS 3518: 2004 Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) compounds G13/AS2, G14/VM1
pipes and fittings for pressure applications
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1
NZS 3601: 1973 Metric dimensions for timber B1/AS2
Amend: 1, 2
NZS/BS 3601: 1987 Specification for carbon steel pipes and tubes G10/AS1
(1993) with specified room temperature properties for
pressure purposes
Amend: 1, 2
NZS 3602:- E2/AS1
Part 1: 1995 Timber and wood-based products for use in building B2/AS1
Part 1: 2003 Timber and wood-based products for use in building B2/AS1, SH /AS1
NZS 3603: 1993 Timber structures standard B1/VM1/VM4
Amend: 1, 2 (Applies to building work consented
prior to 1 April 2007)
Amend: 1, 2, 4 (Applies to building work consented SH /AS1
on or after 1 April 2007)
NZS 3604: 1990 Timber framed buildings G12/AS2
NZS 3604: 1999 Timber framed buildings B2/AS1, E1/AS1,
Amend: 1, 2 E2/VM1/AS1/AS2
G12/AS2, G13/AS2,
SH /AS1
NZS 3604: 1999 Timber framed buildings B1/AS1/AS2/AS3
Amend: 1 (Applies to building work consented
prior to 1 April 2007)
Amend: 1, 2 (Applies to building work consented
on or after 1 April 2007)
NZS 3605: 2001 Timber piles and poles for use in building B1/VM4, SH /AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 3617: 1979 Specification for profiles of weatherboards, fascia E2/AS1, SH /AS1
boards, and flooring
Amend 11
Sep 2010
NZS 3622: 2004 Verification of timber properties B1/VM1, SH /AS1
Amend: 1

84 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
NZS 3631: 1988 New Zealand timber grading rules B1/AS2, SH /AS1
NZS 3640: 2003 Chemical preservation of round and sawn timber B1/AS2/VM4
Amend: 1, 2
NZS 3640: 2003 Chemical preservation of round and sawn timber SH/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 4
AS/NZS 3661:- Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces
Part 1: 1993 Requirements D1/VM1/AS1
Part 2: 1994 Guide to the reduction of slip hazards D1/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010
AS/NZS 3666:- Air-handling and water systems of buildings
– Microbial Control
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 2002 Design, installation and commissioning G4/AS1
Part 2: 2002 Operation and maintenance G4/AS1, HB/SS 9
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 3: 2000 Performance-based maintenance of cooling HB/SS 9
water systems
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS/AS 3725: 2007 Design for installation of buried concrete pipes B1/VM1
AS/NZS 3837: 1998 Method of test for heat and smoke release rates C/AS1
for materials and products using an oxygen
consumption calorimeter
AS/NZS 3869: 1999 Domestic solid fuel burning appliances – B1/AS3
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Design and construction
AS/NZS 3896: 1998 Waters – Examination for legionellae including HB/SS 9
Legionella pneumophila
Amend: 1
AS/NZS 4020: 2002 Testing of products for use in contact with E2/AS1
drinking water
AS/NZS 4020: 2005 Testing of products for use in contact with G12/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 drinking water
AS/NZS 4058: 2007 Pre cast concrete pipes(pressure and non-pressure) B1/VM1, E1/AS1,
G13/AS2, G14/VM1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4121: 2001 Design for access and mobility – Buildings and D1/AS1, G1/AS1,
associated facilities G5/AS1, SH /AS1
AS/NZS 4129: 2008 Fillings for polyethylene (PE) pipes for pressure G12/AS1, G14/VM1
applications
AS/NZS 4130: 1997 Polyethylene (PE) pipe for pressure applications G14/VM1
AS/NZS 4130: 2003 Polyethylene (PE) pipe for pressure applications E1/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS/NZS 4130: 2009 Polyethylene (PE) pipe for pressure applications G12/AS1, G13/AS2
AS/NZS 4200: Pliable building membranes and underlays E2/AS1
Part 1: 1994 – Materials
AS/NZS 4200: Pliable building membranes and underlays SH/AS1
Part 1: 1994 Materials
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
85
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
AS/NZS 4201: Pliable building membranes and unerlays E2/AS1
– Methods of test
Part 3: 1994 Pliable building membranes and underlays:
Methods of test: Shrinkage
Part 4: 1994 Resistance to water penetration
Part 6: 1994 Surface water absorbency

Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4203: 1992 Code of practice for general structural design B1/VM1/VM4,
and design loadings for buildings E2/VM1/AS1,
Corrigendum: 1 G12/AS2
NZS 4206: 1992 Concrete interlocking roofing tiles E2/AS1, SH /AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4210: 2001 Code of practice for masonry construction: materials B1/AS3, SH /AS1
and workmanship
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1
NZS 4211: 1985 Specification for performance of windows B1/VM1, E2/VM1/AS1,
Amend: 1, 2, 3 SH/AS1
NZS 4214: 1977 Methods of determining the total thermal resistance E3/AS1, G5/AS1,
of parts of buildings
NZS 4214: 2006 Methods of determining the total thermal resistance H1/VM1/HS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 of parts of buildings
NZS 4217:- Pressed metal tile roofs
Part 1: 1980 Specification for roofing tiles and their accessories E2/AS1, SH /AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 2: 1980 Code of practice for preparation of the structure E2/AS1, SH /AS1
and the laying and fixing of metal roofing tiles
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4218: 2004 Energy efficiency – housing and small building H1/VM1/AS1
envelope
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4219: 1983 Specification for seismic resistance of engineering G10/AS1, G14/VM1
systems in buildings
Amend: 1, 2
NZS 4223:- Code of practice for glazing in buildings
Part 1: 2008 Glass selection and glazing B1/AS1, SH /AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 2: 1985 The selection and installation of manufactured B1/AS1, SH /AS1
sealed insulating glass units
Amend: 1, 2
Part 3: 1999 Human impact safety requirements B1/AS1, F2/AS1,
SH /AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 4: 2008 Wind, dead, snow, and live actions B1/AS1, SH /AS1
NZS 4229: 1999 Concrete masonry buildings not requiring specific B1/AS1/AS3,
engineering design E1/AS1, G13/AS2
Amend: 1

86 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
NZS 4230: 2004 Design of reinforced concrete masonry structures B1/VM1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1
NZS 4231: 1985 Specification for self-luminous exit signs F8/AS1
Amend: A
NZS 4232:- Performance criteria for fire resisting enclosures HB/SS 15
Part 2: 1988 Fire resisting glazing systems C/AS1
NZS HB 4236: 2002 Masonary veneer wall cladding E2/AS1
NZS 4239: 1993 Automatic sliding door assemblies HB/SS 3
Amend: A
NZS 4243: Energy efficiency – large buildings
Part 1: 2007 Building thermal envelope H1/VM1/AS1
Part 2: 2007 Lighting H1/VM1/AS1
NZS 4246: 2006 Energy efficiency – Installing insulation in SH/AS1
residential buildings
NZS 4251:- Solid plastering
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 2007 Cement plaster for walls, ceilings and soffits B1/AS1, B2/AS1,
E2/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS/NZS 4256: Plastic roof and wall cladding materials E2/AS1, SH /AS1
Part 2: 1994 Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC)
building sheets
AS/NZS 4284: 1995 Testing of building facades E2/VM1
NZS 4297: 1998 Engineering design for earth buildings B1/VM1, B2/AS1
NZS 4298: 1998 Materials and workmanship for earth buildings E2/AS2
Amend 11 Amend: 1
Sep 2010
NZS 4299: 1998 Earth buildings not requiring specific design B1/AS1, B2/AS1,
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1 E2/AS2
NZS 4303: 1990 Ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality G4/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4304: 2002 Health care waste management G15/AS1
NZS 4305: 1996 Energy efficiency – domestic type hot water systems H1/AS1

AS/NZS 4331: 1995 Metallic flanges

Part 1: Steel flanges G10/AS1, G14/VM1
Part 2: Cast iron flanges G10/AS1, G14/VM1
Part 3: Copper alloy and composite flanges G14/VM1
Amend 11
Sep 2010

NZS 4332: 1997 Non-domestic passenger and goods lifts D2/AS1, F6/AS1,
HB/SS 8
AS/NZS 4401: 2006 High density polyethylene (PE-HD) pipes and G13/AS1, G14/VM1
fittings for soil and waste discharge (low and high
Amend 11
Sep 2010 temperature) systems inside buildings

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
87
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
NZS 4402:- Methods of testing soils for civil engineering purposes B1/VM1
Part 2:- Soil classification tests
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Test 2.2: 1986 Determination of the liquid limit B1/Defs, SH /AS1
Test 2.6: 1986 Determination of the linear shrinkage B1/Defs
Part 4:- Soil compaction tests
Test 4.2.3: 1988 Related densities B1/VM4
NZS 4431: 1989 Code of practice for earth fill for residential B1/VM1, E2/AS2
Amend 11
Sep 2010
development SH/AS1
Amend: 1
NZS 4442: 1988 Welded steel pipes and fittings for water, sewage E1/AS1, G13/AS2,
and medium pressure gas G14/VM1

AS/NZS 4455: 1997 Masonry units and segmental pavers SH/AS1

AS/NZS 4456: 2003 Masonry unit and segmental pavers – SH/AS1
Methods of test
Amend: 1, 2
NZS 4503: 2005 Hand operated fire fighting equipment C/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010

NZS 4510: 1998 Fire hydrant systems for buildings C/AS1, HB/SS 6
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1
NZS 4512: 2003 Fire alarm systems in buildings C/AS1, HB/SS 2,
HB/SS 15, F7/AS1
NZS 4515: 2003 Fire sprinkler systems for residential occupancies C/AS1, HB/SS 1,
F7/AS1
AS/NZS 4534: 1998 Zinc and zinc/aluminium-alloy coatings on E2/AS1
steel wire
NZS 4541: 2007 Automatic fire sprinkler systems C/AS1, F7/AS1
Amend: 1 HB/SS 1
AS/NZS 4586: 2004 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian SH /AS1
surface materials
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS/NZS 4600: 2005 Cold-formed steel structures B1/VM1
NZS 4602: 1988 Low pressure copper thermal storage electric G12/AS1
water heaters
Amend: 1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4603: 1985 Installation of low pressure thermal storage G12/AS1, SH /AS1
electric water heaters with copper cylinders
(open vented systems)
Amend: 1

88 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
NZS 4606:- Storage water heaters
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 1989 General requirements G12/AS1, SH/AS1
Amend: 1, 2, 3
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 2: 1989 Specific requirements for water heaters with SH/AS1
single shells
Amend: A G12/AS1, SH/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 3: 1992 Specific requirements for water heaters with
composite shells
Amend: A G12/AS1
NZS 4607: 1989 Installation of thermal storage electric water heaters: G12/AS1
valve vented systems
NZS 4608: 1992 Control valves for hot water systems G12/AS1
NZS 4613: 1986 Domestic solar water heaters G12/AS1/AS2
Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 4614: 1986 Installation of domestic solar water heating systems G12/AS2
NZS 4617: 1989 Tempering (3-port mixing) valves G12/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS/NZS 4671: 2001 Steel reinforcing materials SH /AS1
AS/NZS 4671: 2001 Steel Reinforcing Materials B1/AS1
Amend: 1
AS/NZS 4680: 1999 Hot-dip galvanized (zinc) coatings on fabricated E2/AS1
ferrous articles
AS/NZS 4680: 2006 Hot-dip galvanised (zinc) coating on fabricated B1/AS2/AS3, SH/AS1
ferrous articles
AS/NZS 4692: Electric water heaters G12/AS2
Part 2: 2005 Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS)
requirements and energy labelling

Amend 11
AS/NZS 4740: 2000 Natural ventilaters – classification and performance G4/AS1
Sep 2010
AS/NZS 4765: 2007 Modified polyvinyl chloride (PVC-M) pipes G14/VM1
for pressure applications
AS/NZS 4858: 2004 Wet area membranes E2/AS1
AS/NZS 4859:- Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings H1/AS1
Part 1: 2002 General criteria and technical provisions
AS/NZS 4936: 2002 Air admittance valves for use in sanitary plumbing G13 /AS1, SH /AS1
and drainage systems.
AS/NZS 5000.1 2005 Electric cables – Polymeric insulated – G12/AS1
For working voltages up to and including
0.6/1 (1.2) kV
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1
NZS/BS 5252: 1976 Framework for colour co-ordination for building F8/AS1
purposes
Amend: 1

Amend 11
Sep 2010

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
89
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted

NZS 5261: 2003 Gas installation C/AS1, G4/AS1,
Amend: 1, 2 G10/VM1/AS1,
G11/AS1, SH /AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 NZS 5262: 2003 Gas appliance safety SH/AS1
Amend: 1
NZS 5807:- Code of practice for industrial identification by
colour, wording or other coding
Part 2: 1980 Identification of contents of piping, conduit and ducts G10/AS1
Amend: 1, 2 G12/AS1
NZS 6104: 1981 Specification for emergency electricity supply C/AS1, F6/AS1
in buildings HB/SS 4, SS 14
NZS 6214: 1988 Thermostats and thermal cutouts for domestic G12/AS1
thermal storage electric water heaters
Amend 11 (alternating current only)
Sep 2010

NZS 6401: 1973 Specification for PVC-insulated cables for electric G12/AS1
power and lighting
Amend 11
Sep 2010

NZS 6703: 1984 Code of practice for interior lighting design G7/AS1/VM1
G8/VM1
NZS 6742: 1971 Code of practice for emergency lighting in buildings F8/AS1, HB/SS 4
Amend 11
Sep 2010

NZS 7601: 1978 Specification for polyethylene pipe (Type 3) for G12/AS1, G14/VM1
Amend 11
cold water services
Sep 2010
NZS 7602: 1977 Specification for polyethylene pipe (Type 5) for cold
water services
Amend 11 Amend: 1 G12/AS1
Sep 2010

NZS 7610: 1991 Blue polyethylene pipes up to nominal size 63 for

below ground use for potable water
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Amend: 1, 2, A G12/AS1

NZS 7646: 1978 Specification for polyethylene pipes and fittings for G10/AS1
gas reticulation

SNZ HB 8630: 2009 Tracks and outdoor visitor structures B1/VM1

Amend 11 AS/NZS 60335 Household and similar electrical SH/AS1

Sep 2010
Part 2.30: 2009 Safety appliance – Particular requirements
for room heaters

90 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
Standards Australia

AS D26: 1972 Tube fittings with Dryseal American standard G10/AS1

taper pipe and unified threads for automotive
and industrial use
AS 1088.4: 1987 Hearing aids – magnetic field strength in audio- HB/SS 12
frequency induction loops for hearing aid purposes

AS 1111: ISO metric hexagon bolts and screws – SH/AS1

Product grades A and B
Part 1: 2000 Bolts
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 2: 2000 Screws
AS 1167:- Welding and brazing – Filler metals
Part 1: 2005 Filler metal for brazing and braze welding G10/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 1214: 1983 Hot-dip galvanised coatings on threaded fasteners B1/AS2, SH /AS1
(ISO metric coarse thread series)
AS 1229: 1989 Laundry troughs G2/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010

AS 1273: 1991 Unplasticized PVC (uPVC) downpipe and fittings E1/AS1
for rainwater
AS 1308: 1987 Electric water heaters – Thermostats and thermal G12/AS1
cut-outs Amend: 1
AS 1357:- Water valves for use with unvented water heaters
Part 1: 2009 Protection valves Amend: 1, 2 G12/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 2: 2005 Control valves Amend: 1, 2 G12/AS1
AS 1366:- Rigid cellular plastics sheets for thermal insulation
Part 1: 1992 Rigid cellular polyurethane (RC/PUR) C/AS1
Amend: 1
Part 2: 1992 Rigid cellular polyisocyanurate (RC/PIR) C/AS1
Part 3: 1992 Rigid cellular polystyrene – moulded (RC/PS-M) C/AS1, E2/AS1
Amend: 1
Part 4: 1989 Rigid cellular polystyrene – extruded (RC/PS-E) C/AS1, E2/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 1397: 2001 Steel sheet and strip – Hot-dip zinc-coated or B1/AS2/AS3,
aluminium/zinc-coated E2/AS1, SH /AS1
AS 1432: 2004 Copper tubes for plumbing, gasfitting and drainage G10/AS1
applications
AS 1449: 1994 Wrought alloy steels – Stainless and heat-resisting G1/AS1
steel plate, sheet and strip
Amend: 1

Amend 11
Sep 2010

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
91
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
AS 1530:- Methods for fire tests on building materials,
components and structures
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 1994 Combustibility test for materials C/AS1
Part 2: 1993 Test for flammability of materials C/AS1
Part 4: 1997 Fire-resistance tests of elements of building C/AS1
construction
AS 1566: 1997 Cooper and copper alloys ­– Rolled flat products E2/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 1579: 2001 Arc welded steel pipes and fittings for water and E1/AS1, G13/AS2
waste water
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 1589: 2001 Copper and copper alloy waste fittings G13/AS1
AS 1646: 2007 Elastomeric seals for waterworks purposes E1/AS1
AS 1668:- The use of mechanical ventilation and air- G4/AS1
conditioning in buildings
Part 2: 2002 Ventilation design for indoor-air containment control G4/AS1
AS 1670:- Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems
– System design, installation and commissioning
Part 6: 1997 Smoke alarms F7/AS1
AS 1691: 1985 Domestic oil-fired appliances – installation C/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010
AS 1741: 1991 Vitrified clay pipes and fittings with flexible joints – E1/AS1, G14/VM1
Sewerage quality

Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 1804: 1976 Soft lead sheet and strip E2/AS1, SH/AS1
AS 1851: 2005 Maintenance of fire protection equipment HB/SS 1, SS 2,
SS 5, SS 9, SS 13,
SS 15
AS 2033: 2008 Installation of polyethylene pipe systems G14/VM1, E1/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 2049: 2002 Roof tiles E2/AS1, SH/AS1
AS 2050: 2002 Installation of roof tiles E2/VM1
AS 2159: 1995 Rules for the design and installation of piling B1/VM4
Amend: 1
AS 2220:- Emergency warning and intercommunication
systems in buildings
Part 1: 1989 Equipment design and manufacture C/AS1
Part 2: 1989 System design, installation and commissioning C/AS1

AS 2293: Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings

Part 1: 2005 System design, installation and operation F6/AS1
Part 2: 1995 Inspection and maintenance F6/AS1
Amend: 1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 3: 2005 Emergency escape luminaires and exit signs F6/AS1

92 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
AS 2845:- Water supply – Mechanical backflow prevention
devices
Part 3: 1993 Field testing and maintenance G12/AS1, HB/SS 7
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 2870: 1996 Residential slabs and footings – Construction SH/AS1
AS 2887: 1993 Plastic waste fittings G13/AS1
AS 2890:- Off-street parking
Part 1: 1993 Car parking facilities D1/AS1
Part 2: 1989 Commercial vehicle facilities D1/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 3566 Self-drilling screws for the building and E2/AS1, SH/AS1
construction industries
Part 2: 2002 Corrosion resistance
AS 3571: 1989 Glass filament reinforced thermosetting plastics G13/AS2
(GRP) pipes: Polyester based: Water supply,
sewerage and drainage applications
AS 3588: 1989 Shower bases and shower modules G1/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 3688: 2005 Water supply – Copper and copper alloy compression G10/AS1
and capillary fittings and threaded end connectors
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 3690: 1989 Installation of ABS pipe systems G14/VM1
AS 3706:- Geotextiles – Methods of test
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 1: 2003 General requirements, sampling, conditioning, basic E1/VM1
physical properties and statistical analysis
AS 3730 Guide to the properties of paints for buildings E2/AS1, SH/AS1
Part 6: 1991 Solvent-borne – Exterior – Full gloss enamel E2/AS1
Part 7: 1992 Latex – Exterior – Flat SH/AS1
Part 8: 1992 Latex – Exterior – Low gloss
Part 9: 1992 Latex – Exterior – Semi-gloss
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 10: 1992 Latex – Exterior – Gloss
AS 3786: 1993 Smoke alarms F7/AS1
Amend: 1, 2, 3
Amend 11
Sep 2010

AS 4046 Methods of testing roof tiles

Part 9: 2002 Determination of dynamic weather resistance
AS 4072:- Components for the protection of openings in C/AS1
fire-resistant separating elements
Part 1: 1992 Service penetrations and control joints C/AS1
AS 4085: 1992 Automatic sliding door assemblies HB/SS 3
Amend 11
Sep 2010 AS 4139: 2003 Fibre reinforced concrete pipes and fittings G13/AS2

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
93
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
AS 4178: 1994 Electromagnetic door holders HB/SS 3
AS 4276:-
Part 3.1: 1995 Water plate microbiology – Pour plate method HB/SS 9
using plate count agar
AS 4290: 2000 Design and installation of revolving doors HB/SS 3

94 25 May 2007 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
British Standards Institution

BS 10: 1962 Specification for flanges and bolting for pipes, G10/AS1
valves and fittings
BS 143,
and BS 1256: 1993 Specification for malleable cast iron and cast copper G10/AS1, G14/VM1
alloy threaded pipe fittings
Amend: 1, 2, 3, 4
BSDD 175: 1988 Code of practice for the identification of potentially F1/VM1
contaminated land and its investigation
Amend 11
Sep 2010 BS 437: 2008 Specification for cast iron spigot and socket drain G13/AS2
pipes and fittings
Amend: 5877
BS 585:- Wood stairs
Part 1: 1989 Specification for stairs with closed risers for domestic D1/AS1
use, including straight and winder flights and quarter
or half landings

BS EN 988: 1997 Zinc and zinc alloys. Specification for rolled flat E2/AS1
products for building

BS EN 1044:1999 Brazing. Filler metals G10/AS1

BS EN 1490: 2000 Building valves. Combined temperature and G12/AS1
pressure relief valves. Tests and requirements
BS EN 1491: 2000 Building valves. Expansion valves. G12/AS1
Tests and requirements
BS EN 1567: 1999 Building valves. Water pressure reducing valves G12/AS1
and combination water reducing valves.
Requirements and tests.

BS EN 1595: 1997 Pressure equipment made from borosilicate G14/VM1
glass 3.3 – general rules for design, manufacture
and testing
Amend 11
Sep 2010

BS 1640:- Specification for steel butt-welding pipe fittings

for the petroleum industry
Part 3: 1968 Wrought carbon and ferritic alloy steel fittings. G10/AS1
Metric units
Amend: 905
Part 4: 1968 Wrought and cast austenitic chromium-nickel steel G10/AS1
fittings. Metric units

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
95
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
BS EN 1759 Flanges and their joints.
Part 1: 2004 Circular flanges for pipes, valves, fittings and E1/AS1
accessories, class-designated. Steel flanges,
NPS 1/2 to 24.

Amend 11
Sep 2010
BS 2598:- Glass plant, pipeline and fittings

Amend 11
Sep 2010
Part 4: 1980 Specification for glass plant components G14/VM1

BS 2870: 1980 Specification for rolled copper and copper alloys: E1/AS1
sheet, strip and foil
BS 2971: 1991 Specification for Class II arc welding of carbon G14/VM1
Amend 11
Sep 2010
steel pipework for carrying fluids
BS 3799: 1974 Specification for steel pipe fittings, screwed and G10/AS1
(1994) socket-welding for the petroleum industry

Amend 11
Sep 2010
BS 4790: 1996 Method for determination of the effects of a small C/AS1
source of ignition on textile floor coverings
(hot metal nut method)
BS 4991: 1974 (1982) Specification for propylene copolymer pressure G14/VM1
pipe
Amend 11
Sep 2010
BS 5287: 1996 Specification for assessment and labelling of textile C/AS1
floor coverings tested to BS 4790
BS 5378:- Safety signs and colours
Part 1: 1980 Specification for colour and design F8/AS1
BS 5395:- Stairs, ladders and walkways
Part 2: 1984 Code of practice for the design of helical and D1/AS1
spiral stairs
BS 5446:- Components of automatic fire alarm systems
for residential premises
Part 1: 1990 Specification for self-contained smoke alarms F7/AS1
and point-type smoke detectors
Amends: 6863, 7648, 9628
Amend 11
Sep 2010
BS 6037:- Code of practice for the Planning, design, installation
and use of permanently installed access equipment
Part 1: 2003 Suspended access equipment HB/SS 10
Part 2: 2004 Travelling ladders and gantries HB/SS 10
Amend 11
Sep 2010

96 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
BS 6374:- Lining of equipment with polymeric materials
for the process industries
Part 1: 1985 Specification for lining with sheet thermoplastics G14/VM1
Part 2: 1984 Specification for lining with non-sheet applied G14/VM1
thermoplastics
Part 3: 1984 Specification for lining with stoved G14/VM1
thermosetting resins
Part 4: 1984 Specification for lining with cold curing G14/VM1
thermosetting resins
Part 5: 1985 Specification for lining with rubbers G14/VM1
BS 6464: 1984 Specification for reinforced plastics pipes, fittings G14/VM1
and joints for process plants
BS 6538: 1987 Air permeanence of paper and board E2/AS1
Part 3: 1987 Method for determination of air permeanence
using the Garley apparatus

BS 6920:- Suitability of non-metallic products for use in contact

with water intended for human consumption with
regard to their effect on the quality of the water
Part 1: 2000 Specification G12/AS1
Part 2: 2000 Methods of tests G12/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Part 3: 2000 High temperature tests G12/AS1

BS 6925: 1988 Specification for mastic asphalt for building E2/AS1

and civil engineering (limestone aggregate)
BS 7159: 1989 Code of practice for design and construction G14/VM1
of glass-reinforced plastics (GRP) piping systems
for individual plants or sites
BS 7777: 1993 Flat bottomed, vertical, cylindrical storage tanks G14/VM1
for low temperature service
Part 1: Guide to the general provisions applying
for design, construction and installation
Part 2: Specification for design and construction
of single, double and full containment metal tanks
for the storage of liquified gas at temperatures
down to –165°C
Part 3: Recommendations for the design and
construction of prestressed and reinforced
concrete tanks and tank foundations and for the
design and installation of tank insulation, tank lines
Amend 11
Sep 2010 and tank coating
BS 8004: 1986 Code of practice for foundations B1/VM4
BS EN 10241: 2000 Steel threaded pipe fittings G10/AS1
BS EN 12056-2: 2000 Gravity drainage systems inside buildings. G13/VM1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Sanitary pipework, layout and calculation

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
97
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
BS EN 12285: Workshop fabricated steel tanks
Part 1: 2005 Horizontal cylindrical single skin and double skin G14/VM1
tanks for the underground storage of flammable
and non-flammable water polluting liquids
Part 2: 2005 Horizontal cylindrical single skin and double skin G14/VM1
tanks for the aboveground storage of flammable
and non-flammable water polluting liquids
BS EN 12585: 1999 Glass plant, pipeline and fittings – Pipeline and G14/VM1
fittings DN 15 to 1000 – compatibility and
interchangeability
BS EN 13121-3: 2008 GRP tanks and vessels for use above ground. G14/VM1
Design and workmanship
Amend 11
Sep 2010 BS EN 14324: 2004 Brazing. Guidance on the application of brazed joints G10/AS1

New Zealand Publications

Building Research Association of New Zealand

Amend 11
Sep 2010 BRANZ Bulletin 330: 1995 Thin flooring materials – 2. Preparation E2/AS1, SH/AS1
and laying.
Appendix 1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 BRANZ Bulletin 411: 2001 Recommended timber cladding profiles E2/AS1, SH/AS1
BRANZ EM 4: 2005 Evaluation method for jointing systems for flush E2/AS1
finished fibre cement sheet
BRANZ EM 5: 2005 Evaluation method for adhesives and seam tapes E2/AS1
for butyl and EPDM rubber membranes
BRANZ House Insulation Guide: 1995 E3/AS1, SH/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010
BRANZ Paper C1: 1978 A construction guide to home insulation E3/AS1
(second edition)
BRANZ Technical paper P21: 1991 A wall bracing test and SH/AS1
evaluation procedure
BRANZ Supplement to P21 An evaluation method of P21 test results SH/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 for use with NZS 3604: 1990
BRANZ Technical paper P36: 1983 Food processing floors, a guide to G3/AS1
design, materials and construction. W.R. Sharman

BRANZ Evaluation Method EM1 Structural joints – strength and SH/AS1

stiffness evaluation

ALF 3: The ‘Annual Loss Factor’ Method. A design tool H1/Defs

for energy efficient houses, 3rd edition (April 2000)
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Albrecht Stoecklein and Mark Bassett

98 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G
 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
Government Departments and Agencies

Department of Labour
Workplace exposure standards and biological indices for F1/VM1, G4/VM1
New Zealand: 1992

Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries

MQ 1: 1988 Qual approvals manual G3/AS1

Ministry of Economic Development

NZECP 34: 2001 Electrical safety distances G9/VM1
NZECP 36: 1993 Harmonic levels G9/VM1
NZECP 51: 2004 Homeowner/occupier’s electrical wiring work G9/AS1
in domestic installations
NZECP 54: 2001 Installation of recessed luminaires and auxiliary C/AS1, G9/AS1
equipment

Ministry of Health
Ministry of Health: 2005 Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand SH/AS1
Ministry of Health: 2006 Household water supplies: the selection, SH/AS1
operation and maintenance of individual
Amend 11
Sep 2010 household water supplies

Ministry of Transport
Power Lift Rules: 1989 D2/AS2, HB/SS 8
Rules for power lifts not exceeding 750 watts (one horsepower): 1985 D2/AS2, HB/SS 8

New Zealand Forest Research Institute

Measurement of moisture content of assembled timber framing: 1993 E2/AS1

National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research Ltd (NIWA)

Temperature Normals for New Zealand 1961-1990 H1/Defs
Amend 11
Sep 2010 by A I Tomlinson and J Sansom (ISBN 0478083343)

Transit NZ
Bridge manual: Design and evaluation: 1994 B1/VM1
Amend: 1

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
99
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
New Zealand Legislation
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Chartered Professional Engineers of New Zealand Act 2002 B1/VM1
Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 F4/AS1
Fire Safety and Evacuation of Buildings Regulations 1992 C/AS1
Gas Regulations 1993 G12/AS1
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 F3/VM1
Hazardous Substances (Classification) Regulations 2001 F3/VM1
Hazardous Substances (Classes 1 to 5 Controls) Regulations 2001 F3/VM1
Hazardous Substances (Dangerous Goods and Scheduled F3/VM1
Toxic Substances) Transfer Notice 2004
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Hazardous Substances (Disposal) Regulations 2001 G14/VM1
Hazardous Substances (Emergency Management) Regulations 2001 F3/VM1
Health & Safety in Employment Act 1992 HB/SS 9
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006 SH/AS1
Resource Management Act 1991 E1/VM1, G14/VM1
Resource Management (National Environment Standards relating SH/AS1
to certain Pollutants, Dioxins and other Toxins)
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Regulations: 2004 (NESAQ)

New Zealand Geomechanics Society

Guidelines for the field descriptions of soils and rocks in engineering B1/VM1
use. Nov 1988
New Zealand Concrete Masonry Manual: 1999 Cement and Concrete E2/AS1
Association of New Zealand
New Zealand Metal Roof and Wall Cladding Code of Practice: 2003 E2/AS1
New Zealand Metal Roofing Manufacturers Inc

Australian Publications

Building Control Commission, State of Victoria, Australia

Smoke management in large spaces in buildings: 1998 C/AS1
Milke and Klote

Australia/NZ Publications

Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation

Council
Guidelines for assessment and management of contaminated F1/VM1
sites: 1992

100 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
British Publications

Building Research Establishment (UK)

BRE Defect action sheet DAS 131: May 1989 C/AS1
External walls: Combustible external plastics insulation:
Horizontal fire barriers
BRE Report 135: 1988 C/AS1
Fire performance of external thermal insulation for walls in
multi-storey buildings. Rogowski B.F., Ramaprasad R., Southern J.R.
BRE Report 186: 1990 C/AS1
Design principles for smoke ventilation in enclosed shopping centres.
Morgan and Gardner
BRE Report 258: 1992 C/AS1
Design approaches for smoke control in atrium buildings.
Hansell and Morgan

Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers, London

Amend 11
Sep 2010 CIBSE Code Series A: 1996 G4/VM1/AS1
Air distribution systems

International Publications

EIFS Industry Members Association

EIMA 101.91: 1992 Standard Guide for resin of resin coated glass fibre E2/AS1
mesh in exterior insulation and finish systems
(EIFS), Class PB.

The European Committee for Standardisation

EN 81:- Safety rules for the construction and installation
of lifts
Part 1: 1998 Electric lifts D2/AS1, HB/SS 8
Part 2: 1998 Hydraulic lifts D2/AS1, HB/SS 8
EN 115: 1983 Safety rules for the construction of escalators and D2/AS3, HB/SS 8
passenger conveyors
EN 12380: 1999 Air admittance valves for drainage systems G13/AS1
– Requirements and test methods
Eurocode DD ENV 1991-2-2: 1996
Eurocode 1: Basis of design actions on structures
Part 2.2: Actions on structures exposed to fire C/AS1

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
101
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
International Standards Organisation, Geneva
ICBO Evaluation Services Inc AC148: Acceptance criteria for E2/AS1
flashing materials
ISO 140/VII: 1978 Field measurements of impact sound insulation G6/VM1
of floors

Amend 11
Sep 2010

ISO 9223: 1992 Corrosion of metals and alloys; corrosivity of E2/AS1

atmospheres; classification
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ISO 11600: 2002 Building Construction – Jointing products E2/AS1, SH/AS1
Classification and requirements for sealants
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ISO/TS 15510: 2003 Stainless steels – chemical composition E2/AS1, SH/AS1

Underwriters Laboratories Inc

UL 217: 1997 Single and multiple station smoke alarms F7/AS1

Underwriters’ Laboratories of Canada

CAN/ULC S531: 1995 Smoke alarms F7/AS1

World Health Organisation/Food and Agriculture Organisation

Environmental Health Criteria 70
“Environment health criteria” for various chemicals F1/VM1
Evaluation of certain food additives and F1/VM1
contaminants, Technical report series 776
Geneva: 1989
IARC Monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic F1/VM1
risks to humans for individual chemicals, groups
of chemicals, or processes. Published by the
International Agency for Research on Cancer
Principles for the safety assessment of food F1/VM1
additives and contaminants in food,
Geneva: 1987

102 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
United States of America Publications

Amend 11
Sep 2010
American National Standards Institute and

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ANSI/ASME B16.1: 1989 Cast iron pipe flanges and flanged fittings, G10/AS1
Class 25, 125, 250 and 800
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ANSI/ASME B16.3: 1985 Malleable-iron threaded fittings, G10/AS1
Classes 150 and 300
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ANSI/ASME B16.5: 1988 Pipe flanges and flanged fittings, steel-nickel G10/AS1
alloy and other special alloys
ANSI/ASME B16.9: 1990 Factory-made wrought steel butt-welding G10/AS1
fittings

ANSI B16.11: 1980 Forged steel fittings, socket-welding and threaded G10/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010
American Petroleum Institute
API SPEC 5L: 1991 Specification for line pipe G10/AS1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 API STD 1104: 1988 Welding of pipelines and related facilities G10/AS1

American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air

Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Design of smoke management systems. Klote and Milke 1992 C/AS1

American Society of Sanitary Engineers

ASSE 1050: 1991 Performance requirements for air admittance G13/AS1
valves for plumbing DWV systems stack
type devices
ASSE 1051: 1992 Performance requirements for air admittance G13/AS1
valves for plumbing drainage systems

American Society for Testing and Materials

ASTM A 53 – 90a Specification for pipe, steel, black and hot-dipped, G10/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 zinc-coated welded and seamless
ASTM A 106 – 91a Specification for seamless carbon steel pipe for G10/AS1
high temperature service
ASTM C 236: 1987 Standard test method for steady state thermal E3/AS1
performance of building assemblies by means
of a guarded hot box

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
103
 new zealand building code handbook Publications Referenced

Where quoted
ASTM D 1143: 1981 Test method for piles under static axial B1/VM4
compressive load
ASTM C 1330: 2002 Standard Specification for Cylindrical Sealant E2/AS1
Backing for use with Cold Liquid Applied Sealants
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ASTM C 1549: 2002 Standard Test Method for Determination of Solar E2/AS1, SH/AS1
Reflectance Near Ambient Temperature Using a
Portable Solar Reflectometer
ASTM D 1667: 1997 Standard Test Specification for Flexible Cellular E2/AS1
Materials – Vinyl Chloride Polymers and
Capolymers (Closed-cell foam)
ASTM D 2240: 2003 Standard Test method for Rubber Property E2/AS1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ASTM D 6134: 1997 Standard Specification for Vulcanised Rubber E2/AS1, SH/AS1
Sheets Used in Waterproofing Systems
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ASTM E 96: 1992 Standard test methods for water vapour E2/AS1, SH/AS1
transmission of materials
ASTM E 336: 1990 Method for measurement of airborne sound G6/VM1
insulation in buildings
ASTM E 413: 1987 Classification for rating sound insulation G6/VM1
ASTM E 492: 1990 Test method for laboratory measurement of G6/VM1
impact sound transmission through floor-ceiling
assemblies using a tapping machine
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ASTM E 903: 1996 Standard Test Method for Solar Absorbance, E2/AS1, SH/AS1
Reflectance, and Transmittance of Materials Using
Integrating Spheres
ASTM E 989: 1989 Classification for determination of impact insulation G6/VM1
class (IIC)
ASTM E 2098: 2000 Standard Test Method for Determining Tensile E2/AS1
Breaking Strength of Glass Fibre Reinforcing Mesh
for Use in Class PB Exterior Insulation and Finish
Systems (EIFS), after Exposure to a Sodium
Hydroxide Solution
ASTM E 2134: 2001 Standard Test Method for Evaluation the Tensile- E2/AS1
Adhesion Performance of an Exterior Insulation
amd Finish System (EIFS)
ASTM G 154: 2000 Standard Practice for Operating Fluorescent Light E2/AS1
Apparatus for UV Exposure of Nonmetallic
Materials
ASTM G 155: 2000 Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light E2/AS1
Apparatus for UV Exposure of Nonmetallic
Materials

104 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 P u b l i c ations Referenced new zealand building code handbook

Where quoted
International Conference of Building Officials, America
Uniform Building Code Standard 4.1: 1997 C/AS1
Proscenium fire safety curtains
Uniform Building Code Standard 26-2: 1997
Test method for the evaluation of thermal barriers C/AS1

National Fire Protection Association of America

Amend 11
Sep 2010 NFPA 92B: 1995 Guide for smoke management systems in malls, C/AS1
atria and large areas
NFPA 285: 1998 Standard method of test for the evaluation of C/AS1
flammability characteristics of exterior non load
bearing wall assemblies containing components
using the intermediate scale, multi-storey
test apparatus

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

USEPA SW 846: 1986 Test methods for evaluating solid waste F1/VM1
EPA/540/1 – 89/002: 1989 Risk assessment guidance for Superfund, F1/VM1
Vol 1. Human health evaluation manual (Part A)
Interim final. Prepared by USEPA Office of
Emergency and Remedial Response
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Federal Specification Standard TT-S-00230C: Elastomeric type, cold E2/AS1, SH/AS1
applied single component for caulking, sealing,
and glazing in buildings, building areas (plazas,
decks, pavements, and other structures)
Cross-connection Control Manual: 1989 HB/SS 7

United States Public Health Service

Toxicological profiles on individual chemicals. Prepared by the Agency F1/VM1
for Toxicological Substances and Disease Registry, in collaboration with
the US Environmental Protection Agency

Miscellaneous Publication
Casarett and Doull’s Toxicology. The basic science of poisons. 4th ed. F1/VM1
Macmillan. New York 1991. Klassen CD, Amdur MO, Doull J (Eds)

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
104A
104B
 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definitions
Many of the definitions in this section come from the Building Act 2004, regulations, including
the Building Code, and Compliance Documents. Although every effort has been made to ensure
definitions are accurate at the time of publication, it is possible that definitions may become out
of date as changes occur to the legislation and Compliance Documents. In the event there is
any discrepancy between the definitions in this section and the definitions in the legislation or
Compliance Documents, the definitions in the legislation and Compliance Documents will prevail.
Note that some legislation and Compliance Documents may contain different definitions for the
terms listed below. When using particular legislation or a Compliance Document, reference should
be made to the definitions provided in that document.
Source Key:
BA04 Building Act 2004
BR1 Building Regulations 1992
BR2 Building (Specified Systems, Change the Use, and Earthquake-prone Buildings)
Regulations 2005
Code New Zealand Building Code
EA Electricity Act 1992
FSA Fire Service Act 1975
HB Handbook
HSNOA Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996
LGA Local Government Act 1974 or 2002
PGDA Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 1976
RA Railway Act 2005
RMA Resource Management Act 1991
CD-(Code clause) Compliance Document for given Code clause (eg, CD-G13)
DG Builidng Consent Authority Development Guide
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Simple House Simple House Acceptable Solution

Definition Source

A
Abutment The part of the valley side against which the dam is constructed. DG
Acceptable risk The level of risk the public is prepared to accept without DG
further management. The risk is the combination of the probability and the
consequence of a specified hazardous event.
Acceptable Solution means a solution that must be accepted as complying BA04
with the Building Code.
Access chamber A chamber with working space at drain level through CD-E1, CD-G13
which the drain passes either as an open channel or as a pipe incorporating
an inspection point.
Access point A place where access may be made to a drain or discharge pipe CD-G13
for inspection, cleaning or maintenance; and may include a cleaning eye,
inspection point, rodding point, inspection chamber or access chamber.
Access route A continuous route that permits people and goods to move Code
between the apron or construction edge of the building to spaces within
a building, and between spaces within a building.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
105
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Accessible Having features to permit use by people with disabilities. Code

Accessible route An access route usable by people with disabilities. Code
It shall be a continuous route that can be negotiated unaided by a wheelchair
user. The route shall extend from street boundary or car parking area to those
spaces within the building required to be accessible to enable people with
disabilities to carry out normal activities and processes within the building.
Accessible stairway A stairway having features for use by a person with CD-C
a disability. Buildings required to be accessible shall have at least one accessible
stairway leading off an accessible route whether or not a lift is provided.
Accreditation certificate means a certificate that was issued by the HB
Building Industry Authority under the Building Act 1991.

COMMENT:
Accreditation certificates have become product certificates under the Building Act 2004
and are subject to the product certification scheme under the Building Act 2004.

Active conductor Any conductor in which the electrical potential differs CD-F8
from that of a neutral conductor or earth.
Adequate means Adequate to achieve the objectives of the Building Code. Code
Adjacent building A nearby building, including an adjoining building, Code
whether or not erected on other property.
Air gap The vertical distance through air between the lowest point of the CD-G12
water supply outlet and the flood level rim of the equipment or the fixture
into which the outlet discharges.
Air admittance valve A valve that allows air to enter but not to escape CD-G13
in order to limit pressure fluctuations within the sanitary plumbing
or drainage system.
Air seal A continuous seal fitted between a window or door reveal CD-E2
and the surrounding wall framing to prevent the flow of air into the interior
of the building.
Allotment has the meaning given to it by section 10 of the Building Act 2004. BA04
Section 10 states:
“(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, allotment means
a parcel of land—
(a) that is a continuous area of land; and
(b) whose boundaries are shown on a survey plan, whether or not
as a subdivision—
(i) approved by way of a subdivision consent granted under the
Resource Management Act 1991; or
(ii) allowed or granted under any other Act; and
(c) that is—
(i) subject to the Land Transfer Act 1952 and comprised in 1 certificate
of title or for which 1 certificate of title could be issued under that
Act; or
(ii) not subject to that Act and was acquired by its owner under
1 instrument of conveyance

106 25 May 2007 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), an allotment is taken—

(a) to be a continuous area of land even if part of it is physically
separated from any other part by a road or in any other manner,
unless the division of the allotment into those parts has been
allowed by a subdivision consent granted under the Resource
Management Act 1991 or a subdivision approval under any
former enactment relating to the subdivision of land:
(b) to include the balance of any land from which any allotment is being
or has been subdivided.”
Alter in relation to a building, includes to rebuild, re-erect, repair, enlarge BA04
and extend the building.
Alternative solution means a solution that is compliant with the Building Code HB
but is not part of the Compliance Document.
Aluminium flashings Aluminium flashings shall be a minimum thickness Simple House
of 0.7 mm, and formed from 5000 series in accordance with AS/NZS 1734
and, where pre-painted, have a factory-applied finish complying with
AS/NZS 2728.
Aluminium-zinc coated steel flashings Aluminium-zinc coated steel Simple House
flashings shall be:
(a) BMT 0.55 mm minimum of steel for flashings generally
(b) BMT 0.4 mm of steel for roll-formed roll-top ridge flashings
(c) in aluminium-zinc coating of AZ150 to AS 1397, with a factory-applied
finish in accordance with AS/NZS 2728 Type 4, and in sea spray zone
Amend 11
Sep 2010 and corrosion zone 1 the factory-applied finish shall be Type 5 minimum.
Amenity means an attribute of a building which contributes to the health, Code
physical independence, and well being of the building's users but which
is not associated with disease or a specific illness.
Anti-ponding board A board laid under the lowest row of concrete and clay CD-E2
roof tiles and supports the roof underlay. The board is sloped to ensure
moisture under the tiles is directed to the exterior of the roof.
Appliance hearth A layer of non-combustible material under or near an CD-C
appliance. It may be either part of the building structure or an overlay
on a combustible floor.
Approved temperature data means the temperature data contained in Code
A I Tomlinson and J Sansom, Temperature Normals for New Zealand CD-H1
Amend 11
Sep 2010 for period 1961 to 1990 (NIWA, ISBN 0478083343).
Appurtenant structure, in relation to a dam, means a structure that is integral BA04
to the proper functioning of the dam.
Apron flashing A near flat or sloping flashing with a vertical upstand, CD-E2
used at junctions between roofs and walls.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
107
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Asbestos as defined by the Health and Safety in Employment (Asbestos) CD-F2

Regulations 1983 means:
(a) Actinolite, amosite, chrysotile,crocidolite, fibrous anthophyllite, or tremolite; or
(b) A mixture containing a mineral specified in paragraph a) of this definition; or
(c) A material that is composed wholly or partly of any such mineral; or
(d) A material or article that is contaminated by any such material.

COMMENT:
Asbestos now has the meaning given to it by Regulation 2 of the Health and Safety
in Employment (Asbestos) Regulations 1998. This meaning is:
(a) Amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite, fibrous actinolite, fibrous anthophyllite, or fibrous tremolite; or
(b) A mixture containing a mineral specified in paragraph (a); or
(c) A material that is composed wholly or partly of a mineral specified in paragraph (a); or
(d) A material or article that is contaminated by a mineral specified in paragraph (a):

Atmospheric burner A burner system where all the air for combustion CD-G4
is induced by the inspirating effect of a gas injector and/or by natural draught
in the combustion chamber without mechanical assistance.
Authority means the Building Industry Authority that was established under HB
the Building Act 1991.

COMMENT:
The Authority was dissolved under the Building Act 2004 and its functions and powers
transferred to the Department of Building and Housing.

B
Backcountry hut means a building that— Code
(a) is located on land that is administered by the Department of Conservation
for conservation, recreational, scientific, or other related purposes,
including any land administered under any of the following:
(i) the Conservation Act 1987:
(ii) the National Parks Act 1980:
(iii) the Reserves Act 1977; and
(b) is intended to provide overnight shelter to any person who may visit
and who carries his or her own food, bedding, clothing, and outdoor
equipment; and
(c) contains only basic facilities, which may include (but are not limited to)
any or all of the following:
(i) sleeping platforms or bunks:
(ii) mattresses:
(iii) food preparation surfaces:
(iv) appliances for heating:
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (v) appliances for cooking:
(vi) toilets; and

108 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

(d) has been certified by the Director-General as being in a location that

wheelchair users are unlikely to be able to visit; and
(e) is intended to be able to sleep—
(i) no more than 20 people in its backcountry hut sleeping area; and
(ii) no more than 40 people in total; and
(f) does not contain any connection, except by radiocommunications,
to a network utility operator]
Backcountry hut sleeping area means the area of a backcountry hut that Code
contains sleeping platforms, bunks, or beds that are—
(a) within the same room as a food preparation or eating area; or
(b) in a fully enclosed room that is separate from any food preparation or eating
area and has—
(i) internal walls that limit the spread of fire; and
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (ii) the means of direct egress to outside the hut.
Backflow A flowing back or reversal of the normal direction of the flow caused CD-C
by back-pressure and includes back-siphonage.
Backflow prevention device A device that prevents backflow. CD-C, CD-G12
Backing rod Closed cell polyethylene foam (PEF) rod inserted into gap to Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 provide backing support for foam air seal or sealant.
Back-pressure A backflow condition caused by the downstream pressure CD-G12
becoming greater than the supply pressure.
Back-siphonage Backflow condition caused by the supply pressure becoming CD-G12
less than the downstream pressure.
Baluster A post providing the support for the top and bottom rails of a barrier. CD-B1, CD-B2
Baluster An infil member that provides support for the top and bottom rails Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 of a barrier.
Balustrade The infill parts of a barrier (typically between floor and top rail). CD-B2, CD-F4
Basement Any firecell or part of a firecell below the level of the lowest final exit. CD-C

COMMENT:
Because fire safety precautions are increased with increases in escape height, the precautions
for basements increase with basement depth. Thus a single floor building with one basement
level is treated as a two floor building, a single floor building with three basement levels as
a four floor building and the requirements of C/AS1 Table 4.1 shall be applied downwards
as opposed to upwards for levels above ground.

Base metal thickness (BMT) The thickness of the bare or base metal before CD-E2
any subsequent coating, such as galvanizing.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Batten See ceiling batten, tile batten. Simple House

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
109
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Bird’s beak A double fold applied to the edge of a horizontal metal flashing CD-E2
to stiffen the edge and to assist in deflecting moisture away from the
cladding system below. Refer also Kick-out and Drip edge.

COMMENT:
A bird’s beak is used at the bottom of a capping to deflect water away from the enclosed
balustrade cladding.

Blocking Solid timber having the same depth as the joists and set at right Simple House
angles between the joists to stiffen and prevent them from buckling.
Bond, running or stretcher The bond when the units of each course overlap Simple House
the units in the preceding course by between 25% and 75% of the length
of the units.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Bottom plate A plate placed under the bottom end of studs. Simple House
Boundary means any boundary which is shown on a survey plan approved CD-C
by the Chief Surveyor and which is deposited in the Titles Office whether
or not a new title has been issued.
Boundary joist A joist running along the outer ends of the floor joists. CD-B1
Bracing Any method employed to provide lateral support to a building. Simple House
Bracing capacity Strength of bracing of a whole building or of elements Simple House
within a building. Bracing capacity is measured in bracing units (BUs).
Bracing demand The horizontal forces to be resisted by a whole building Simple House
or by an element within a building. These horizontal forces are a result of wind
or earthquake action. Bracing demand forces are measured in bracing units (BUs).
Bracing line A line along or across a building containing wall bracing elements. Simple House
Bracing rating The lateral load resistance assigned, for example, to a Simple House
wall bracing system.
Bracing unit (BU) A bracing unit is a measure of: Simple House
(a) the horizontal force (bracing demand) on the building (1 kiloNewton is
equal to 20 bracing units)
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (b) the resistance to horizontal force (bracing capacity) of building elements.
Branch discharge pipe A discharge pipe that serves one or more fixture CD-G13
discharge pipes for any one floor.
Branch vent pipe A vent pipe that serves two or more fixture vent pipes. CD-G13
Building has the meaning given to it by sections 8 and 9 of the Building Act 2004. BA04
Section 8 states:
“8 Building: what it means and includes:
(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, building—
(a) means a temporary or permanent movable or immovable structure
(including a structure intended for occupation by people, animals,
machinery, or chattels); and

110 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

(b) includes—
(i) a mechanical, electrical, or other system; and
(ii) a fence as defined in section 2 of the Fencing of Swimming
Pools Act 1987; and
2(1) of the Land Transport Act 1998) that is immovable
and is occupied by people on a permanent or long term basis; and
(iii) a vehicle or motor vehicle (including a vehicle or motor vehicle
as defined in section
(iv) a mast pole or a telecommunication aerial that is on, or forms
part of, a building and that is more than 7 m in height above
the point of its attachment or base support (except a dish aerial
that is less than 2 m wide); and
(c) includes any 2 or more buildings that, on completion of building work,
are intended to be managed as one building with a common use and
a common set of ownership arrangements; and
(d) includes the non-moving parts of a cable car attached to or servicing
a building; and
(e) after 30 March 2008, includes the moving parts of a cable car attached
to or servicing a building
(2) Subsection (1)(b)(i) only applies if—
(a) the mechanical, electrical, or other system is attached to the structure
referred to in subsection (1)(a); and
(b) the system—
(i) is required by the Building Code; or
(ii) if installed, is required to comply with the Building Code.
(3) Subsection (1)(c) only applies in relation to—
(a) subpart 2 of Part 2; and
(b) a building consent; and
(c) a code compliance certificate; and
(d) a compliance schedule.
(4) This section is subject to section 9.”
Section 9 states:
“9 Building: what it does not include
In this Act, building does not include—
(a) a NUO system, or part of a NUO system, that—
(i) is external to the building; and
(ii) is connected to, or is intended to be connected to, the building
to provide for the successful functioning of the NUO system in
accordance with the system’s intended design and purpose; and
(iii) is not a mast pole or a telecommunication aerial that is on,
or forms part of, a building; or
(b) cranes (including any cranes as defined in regulations made
under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992); or
(c) any of the following, whether or not incorporated within another
structure:
(i) ski tows:
(ii) other similar stand-alone machinery systems; or

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 25 May 2007
111
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

(d) any description of vessel, boat, ferry, or craft used in navigation—

(i) whether or not it has a means of propulsion; and
(ii) regardless of what that means of propulsion is; or
(e) aircraft (including any machine that can derive support in the atmosphere
from the reactions of the air otherwise than by the reactions of the
air against the surface of the earth); or
(f) any offshore installation (as defined in section 222 of the Maritime
Transport Act 1994) to be used for petroleum mining; or
(g) containers as defined in section 2(1) of the Hazardous Substances
and New Organisms Act 1996; or
(h) magazines as defined in section 222 of the Hazardous Substances
and New Organisms Act 1996; or
(i) scaffolding used in the course of the construction process; or
(j) falsework.”
Building Act 2004 (the Building Act) means the principal legislation dealing HB
with building controls in New Zealand.

COMMENT:
The Building Act applies to the construction, alteration, and demolition of new and existing
buildings throughout New Zealand.

Building certifier means a person approved as a building certifier by the HB

Authority under the former Act.

COMMENT:
Building certifiers are not provided for under the Building Act 2004. There are no longer
any building certifiers.

Building Code means the regulations made under section 400 of the BA04
Building Act 2004.

COMMENT:
No regulations have yet been made under section 400 of the Building Act 2004.
However, the Building Code is currently the First Schedule of the Building Regulations 1992,
which continue in force under regulation 8(2) of the Building Forms (Regulations) 2004.

Building consent means a consent to carry out building work granted BA04
by a building consent authority under section 49 of the Building Act 2004.
Building consent A consent issued by a building consent authority for building Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 work to begin in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.
Building consent accreditation body means the person referred to BA04
in section 248(2) of the Building Act 2004.
Building consent authority (BCA) means a person whose name is entered BA04
in the register referred to in section 273(1)(a) of the Building Act 2004.
Building element Any structural and non-structural component and assembly Code
incorporated into or associated with a building. Included are fixtures, services,
drains, permanent mechanical installations for access, glazing, partitions,
ceilings and temporary supports.

112 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Building height The vertical distance between the floor level of the lowest Code
final exit from the building; and the highest occupied floor level containing
or supporting any purpose group other than IE, IA or ID, or penthouses used
to enclose stairways, liftshafts or machinery rooms located on or within the roof.
Building levy means a levy payable under section 53 of the Building Act 2004. BA04
Building method or product has the meaning given to it by section 20 BA04
of the Building Act 2004. Section 20(2)(c) states:
“(c) building methods, methods of construction, building design, or building
materials (building methods or products) that have a current product
certificate issued under section 269.”
Building performance index (BPI) in relation to a building, means the heating Code
energy of the building divided by the product of the heating degrees total and
the sum of the floor area and the total wall area, and so is calculated in
accordance with the following formula:
BPI = heating energy
heating degrees total x
(floor area + total wall area)

Amend 11
Sep 2010
Building work— BA04
(a) means work—
(i) for, or in connection with, the construction, alteration, demolition, or removal
of a building; and
(ii) on an allotment that is likely to affect the extent to which an existing building
on that allotment complies with the Building Code; and
(b) includes sitework; and
(c) includes design work (relating to building work) that is design work of a kind
declared by the Governor-General by Order in Council to be restricted building
work for the purposes of this Act; and
(d) in Part 4, and the definition in this section of ``supervise'', also includes design
work (relating to building work) of a kind declared by the Governor-General by
Order in Council to be building work for the purposes of Part 4]
Building warrant of fitness (BWoF) means the warrant of fitness an owner HB
of a building must supply to a territorial authority under section 108 of the
Building Act 2004.
Building wrap A building paper, synthetic wrap or sheathing used as part of the CD-E2
wall cladding system to assist the control of moisture by ensuring moisture
which occasionally penetrates the wall cladding is directed back to the exterior
of the building.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Building wrap or building underlay See wall underlay. Simple House

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
113
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Butt flashing A preformed wall flashing, used to flash windows and corners CD-E2
on horizontal profiled metal wall cladding. A butt flashing is shaped to underflash
the cladding, with the cladding butting against the exposed box portion
of the flashing.
Butyl rubber and EPDM flashings Butyl rubber and EPDM flashings shall be Simple House
a minimum thickness of 1.0 mm, and shall comply with the following parts
of Table 1 in ASTM D6134:
(b) tensile strength
(c) elongation
(d) water absorption
(e) water vapour transmission
(f) heat aging followed by:
i) tensile strength
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ii) elongation.

C
Cable car— BA04
(a) means a vehicle—
(i) that carries people or goods on or along an inclined plane or a suspended
cable; and
(ii) that operates wholly or partly outside of a building;
And
(iii) the traction for which is supplied by a cable or any other means; but
(b) does not include a lift that carries people or goods between the floors
of a building.
Cantilevered deck A deck where no support is provided at the outer CD-E2
extremities of the deck.

COMMENT:
Cantilevered decks are often constructed by extending framing members through
the cladding beyond the building face. Cantilevered decks are sometimes known as balconies.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Capacity The load resistance of a connector or fixing. Simple House
Capping A flashing formed to cover the top of an enclosed balustrade CD-E2
or parapet. Also known as a coping.
Cavity barrier A construction provided to close openings within a concealed CD-C
space against the passage of fire, or to restrict the spread of fire within
such spaces.
Cavity batten A vertical packing member used to create a drained cavity CD-E2
as part of a cladding system.

114 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Cavity spacer A short block used to provide intermittent support for fixings CD-E2
or pipe penetrations through a drained cavity, while not interrupting drainage
within the cavity.
A cavity spacer is required to be set to a slight fall (5° minimum from horizontal)
to allow drainage of any moisture from the top.
Cavity wall A term used to describe a wall that incorporates a drained cavity. CD-E2
Ceiling batten A horizontal member fixed below rafters, or truss bottom Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 chords to which the ceiling lining is attached.
Certificate of acceptance means a certificate issued under section 96 of the BA04
Building Act 2004.
Certificate for public use means a certificate issued under section 363A HB
of the Building Act 2004.
Change the use for the purposes of sections 114 and 115 of the BR2
Building Act 2004, change the use, in relation to a building, means to change
the use (determined in accordance with regulation 6) of all or a part of the
building from one use (the old use) to another (the new use) and with the result
that the requirements for compliance with the Building Code in relation to the
new use are additional to, or more onerous than, the requirements for
compliance with the Building Code in relation to the old use.
Check valve (or non-return valve) A valve that permits flow in one direction CD-G12
but prevents a return flow and is part of a backflow prevention device.
Chimney A non-combustible structure which encloses one or more flues, CD-B1, CD-C,
fireplaces or other heating appliances. CD-G4
Chimney back The non-combustible wall forming the back of a fireplace. CD-B1, CD-C
Chimney base That part of a chimney which houses the fireplace. CD-B1
Chimney breast The front fireplace wall construction above the fireplace CD-C
opening.
Chimney jambs The side walls of a fireplace. CD-B1, CD-C
Cladding The exterior weather-resistant surface of a building. CD-E2

COMMENT:
Includes any supporting substrate and, if applicable, surface treatment.

Cladding system The weatherproof enclosure of a building, including building CD-E2

wraps, claddings and their fixings, windows, doors and all penetrations,
flashings, seals, joints and junctions.
Where required by E2/AS1, the cladding system shall include a drained cavity.
Cladding system The weatherproof wall or roof enclosure of a building, Simple House
including underlays, claddings and their fixings, windows, doors and all
Amend 11
Sep 2010 penetrations, flashings, seals, joints and junctions.
Classified use means a classified use listed in clause A1 of the Building Code. BR1
Cleaning eye A small diameter access point usually formed as part of a fitting CD-G13
or trap.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
115
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Cleared ground level (CGL) The ground level after completion of site Simple House
excavation and removal of all harmful material, but before excavation
Amend 11
Sep 2010 for foundations.
Code compliance certificate means a certificate issued by a building consent BA04
authority under section 95 of the Building Act 2004.
Combined waste pipe A discharge pipe which serves two or more waste pipes. CD-G13
Combustible See non-combustible. CD-B1, CD-C
Combustion appliance A slow combustion stove, a free standing metal cone Code
fireplace, a cast iron pot belly stove, an oil burning space heater, or a vented
gas burning heater.
Common extract duct A mechanical ventilation duct that extracts from CD-G4
Amend 11
Sep 2010 different household units, and may contain air, moisture and contaminant.
Common ramp A ramp which is used, or intended to be used by the public CD-D1
whether as of right or not, and is not a service ramp or accessible ramp.
Common stairway A stairway which is used, or intended to be used, by the CD-D1
public whether as of right or not, and is not a private stairway, service stairway
or accessible stairway.
Compliance document has the meaning given to it by section 22 of the BA04
Building Act 2004.
Section 22 states:
“22. Compliance document for use in establishing compliance with Building Code —
(1) The chief executive may, by notice in the Gazette, issue a document for use
in establishing compliance with the Building Code (a Compliance Document).
(2) A person who complies with a Compliance Document must, for the
purposes of this Act, be treated as having complied with the provisions
of the Building Code to which the document relates.
(3) Subsection (2) is subject to any regulations referred to in section 20”.
Compliance schedule means a compliance schedule required under BA04
section 100 of the Building Act 2004.
Compliance schedule statement means a statement issued by a territorial HB
or regional authority referred to in section 105(e) of the Building Act 2004.
Concealed space Any part of the space within a building that cannot be seen Code
from an occupied space.

COMMENT:
This term includes any ceiling space, roof space, space under a raised floor (such as computer
rooms, floors, or stages), plenums, spaces under a tiered floor, “left-over spaces” created
when some structural element or the like has been covered in; small service or duct spaces
within the volume of a firecell and the like, but not a protected shaft.

Concrete slab shrinkage control joint A line along which the horizontal Simple House
strength of the slab is deliberately reduced so that any shrinkage in the slab
Amend 11
Sep 2010 will result in a crack forming along that line.

116 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Constant pressure means subjected to the sustained force of fluid forming the DG
reservoir. When there is no water in a reservoir, there is no pressure. When a
reservoir is partially filled, there is a constant pressure – in terms of it being
a pressure sustained in time.
Construct in relation to a building, includes to design, build, erect, prefabricate, BA04
and relocate the building.
Contaminant includes any substance (including gases, odorous compounds, RMA
liquids, solids, and microorganisms) or energy (excluding noise) or heat, that
either by itself or in combination with the same, similar, or other substances,
energy, or heat.
(a) When discharged into water, changes or is likely to change the physical,
chemical, or biological condition of water, or
(b) When discharged onto or into land or into air, changes or is likely to change
the physical, chemical, or biological condition of the land or air onto or into
which it is discharged.
Controlled area That area where the use of radioactive material or an irradiating CD-F8
apparatus may, in the opinion of the licensee, present a hazard to persons
within that area.
Control joint A joint designed to prevent damage by accommodating CD-E2
movement. See also Expansion joint.
Amend 11
Sep 2010

Cross connection Any actual or potential connection between a potable water CD-G12
supply and a source of contamination.

D
Amend 11
Sep 2010 D A deformed reinforcing bar of the stated diameter in millimetres. Simple House
Dam BA04
(a) means an artificial barrier, and its appurtenant structures, that—
(i) is constructed to hold back water or other fluid under constant pressure so
as to form a reservoir; and
(ii) is used for the storage, control, or diversion of water or other fluid; and
(iii) retains 3 or more metres depth, and holds 20,000 or more cubic metres
volume, of water or other fluid; and
(b) includes—
(i) a flood control dam; and
(ii) a natural feature that has been significantly modified to function as a dam; and
(iii) a canal; but
(c) does not include a stopbank designed to control floodwaters.

COMMENT:
20,000 cubic metres is equivalent to six Olympic size swimming pools.
Note: An Olympic swimming pool size is 50 m long x 25 m wide x 2 m deep.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
117
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Dam safety assurance programme means a dam safety assurance programme BA04
prepared by an owner of a dam under section 140 of the Building Act 2004.

COMMENT:
In order for dams to maintain their integrity ongoing monitoring, maintenance and repair
is essential. For those dams classified as medium or high potential impact, dam owners
have to prepare and submit a safety assurance programme to the regional authority
on an annual basis.

Dam compliance certificate A certificate issued by the owner of a dam DG

annually stating that all procedures in the dam safety assurance programme
have been fully complied with during the previous 12 months.
Damp-proof course (DPC) A narrow strip (generally up to 300 mm wide) CD-E2
of durable vapour barrier placed between building elements to prevent the
passage of moisture from one element to another.
Damp-proof course (DPC) A narrow strip (generally up to 300 mm wide) Simple House
of durable vapour barrier greater than 90MN s/g to ASTM E96 and placed
between building elements to prevent the passage of moisture from one
Amend 11
Sep 2010 element to another.
Damp-proof membrane (DPM) A sheet material, coating or vapour barrier, CD-B2, CD-E2
having a low water vapour transmission, and used to prevent water and water
vapour movement through concrete in contact with the ground.
(Also known as a concrete underlay.)
Dangerous goods Any materials included in the UN classification, classes 2-5. CD-F8

COMMENT:
See Hazardous substance.

Dangerous goods workroom A room reserved primarily for the use CD-F8
of dangerous goods of Class 3(a) or Class 3(b) (i.e. flammable liquids).
Dead end That part of an open path where escape is possible in only one CD-C
direction.

COMMENT:
A dead end ceases to exist where the escape route reaches a point in the open path which
offers alternative directions of travel, or at a final exit or an exitway.

Deck An open platform projecting from an exterior wall of a building and CD-E2
supported by framing. A deck may be over enclosed internal spaces, or may
be open underneath.
Refer also Enclosed deck.
Also known as a balcony.

Amend 11
Sep 2010

118 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Department means the Department of Building and Housing. HB

Department of Conservation means the department of State established Code
Amend 11
Sep 2010 by section 5 of the Conservation Act 1987.
Determination means a determination made by the Chief Executive under BA04
subpart 1 of Part 3 of the Building Act 2004.
Developed length The total length along the centre line of a pipe including CD-G13
fittings and bends.
Diagonal brace A member of a framed building fixed diagonally and used Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 to resist tension or compression or both.
Diameter (or bore) The nominal internal diameter. CD-G12, CD-G13
Direct fixed A term used to describe a wall cladding attached directly to the CD-E2
wall framing, without the use of a drained cavity.
Director-General has the same meaning as in section 2(1) of the Code
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Conservation Act 1987.
Discharge pipe Any pipe that is intended to convey discharge from sanitary CD-G13
fixtures or sanitary appliances.
Discharge stack A discharge pipe that has one or more discharge pipe CD-G13
connections, and which is vented at one end via a discharge stack vent.
Discharge stack vent A vent pipe connected to the top of the discharge stack. CD-G13
Discharge unit The unit of measure for the discharge (hydraulic load) in the CD-G13
plumbing system, and is based on the rate, duration and frequency of discharge
from a sanitary fixture or sanitary appliance.
Doorset A complete assembly comprising a door leaf or leaves including any CD-C, CD-F8
glazed or solid panels adjacent to or over the leaves within the door frame
including hardware or other inbuilt features; and a door frame, if any, with its
fixings to the wall and, for a sliding or tilting door, all guides and their respective
fixings to the lintel, wall or sill.
Dormer or dormer window A framed structure that projects from a sloping CD-E2
roof, and has a window at its outer end.
Drain A pipe normally laid below ground level including fittings and equipment Code
and intended to convey foul water or surface water to an outfall.
Drained cavity A cavity space, immediately behind a wall cladding, that has CD-E2
vents at the base of the wall. Also known as a drained and vented cavity and
referred to in E2/AS1 as a cavity. A drained cavity assists drying by allowing water
which occasionally penetrates the wall cladding system to drain to the exterior
of the building, and any remaining moisture to dry by evaporation. Where E2/AS1
requires a nominal20 mm drained cavity, the depth shall be between limits of
18 mm and 25 mm. For definition of masonry veneer cavity refer to SNZ HB 4236.
Drain vent pipe Any pipe which is intended to permit the movement of air CD-G13
into and out of the drain and sewer.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
119
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Draught diverter A device, without moving parts, fitted in the flue of an CD-G4, CD-C
appliance for isolating the combustion system from the effects of pressure
changes in the secondary flue.
Drip edge Fold(s) applied to the edge of a horizontal metal flashing to deflect CD-E2
moisture away from the cladding system below. Refer also Bird’s beak
and Kick-out.
Durable Resistant to wear and decay. CD-B2
Dwang A short horizontal member fixed between vertical framing timbers. CD-E2
Also known as nogging.

E
Early childhood centre A facility used for the education or care of children CD-C
under the age of six, and required to be licensed under the Education
(Early Childhood Centres) Regulations 1998.
Eaves That part of the roof construction, including cladding, fascia and gutter, CD-E2
that extends beyond the exterior face of the wall.
Eaves bearer or soffit bearer or sprocket A horizontal member attached Simple House
to the end of a truss or a rafter and to a stud, or a ribbon board, or a soffit
plate, and to which the eaves lining is attached.
EPDM Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer – a thermosetting synthetic rubber. Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 See butyl rubber.
EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) A polystyrene sheet-based CD-E2
cladding system that uses mesh reinforced polymer-modified cement-based
or polymer-based plaster base coats and a protective top coating.
Electrical fixed appliance An electrical appliance which is fixed-wired to the Code
electrical installation, or intended to remain permanently attached and form part
of the building.
Electrical installation Any electrical fixed appliances and components used Code
in the reticulation of electricity, which are intended to remain permanently
attached to and form part of the building.
Electrical supply system The source of electricity external to the electrical Code
installation.
Electrolytic corrosion Galvanic corrosion commonly resulting from the contact CD-E2
of two dissimilar metals when an electrolyte such as water is present.
Enclosed balustrade A timber-framed barrier with cladding across all CD-E2
exposed faces.
Enclosed deck A deck, whether over an interior or exterior space, that has CD-E2
an impermeable upper surface and is closed on the underside. May also be
known as a balcony.
Energy work means— BA04
(a) gasfitting; or
(b) prescribed electrical work

120 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Energy work certificate means a certificate of the kind referred to in BA04

section 19(1)(e) of the Building Act 2004.
Envelope complexity The categorisation of the complexity of the total building CD-E2
envelope into one of four classes, depending on the particular features of the
building as specified in E2/AS1.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) A thermosetting synthetic CD-E2
rubber used as a resilient part of a sealing washer, or as a roof membrane.
Equivalent aerodynamic area The area of an equivalent aerodynamically CD-G4
perfect orifice, and equals the penetration area required by the natural
Amend 11
Sep 2010 ventilation device multiplied by the discharge coefficient determined under test.
Escape height The height between the floor level in the firecell being CD-C, CD-F3
considered and the floor level of the required final exit which is the greatest CD-F6
vertical distance above or below that firecell.

COMMENT:
1. It is necessary only to use the greatest height to the exits required for the firecell being
considered, even though the building may have other final exits at lower or higher levels.

2. Where the firecell contains intermediate floors, or upper floors within household units
the escape height shall be measured from the floor having the greatest vertical separation
from the final exit.

Escape route A continuous unobstructed route from any occupied space Code
in a building to a final exit to enable occupants to reach a safe place,
and shall comprise one or more of the following: open paths, protected paths
and safe paths.

COMMENT:
Doors are not obstructions in an escape route provided they comply with C/AS1 Part 3
and D1/AS1.

Essential service In the context of an electrical installation means emergency Code

lighting, firemen’s lifts, alarms, water pumps, sprinklers, detectors, ventilation
systems and public address systems necessary for the safety of people in buildings.
Estimated value in relation to building work, means the estimated aggregate BA04
of the values, determined in accordance with section 10 of the Goods
and Services Tax Act 1985, of all goods and services to be supplied for
the building work.
Evacuation time The time taken by the occupants of the building to evacuate Code
the building to a final exit.
Exitway All parts of an escape route protected by fire or smoke separations, Code
or by distance when exposed to open air, and terminating at a final exit.
Expansion joint A joint designed to prevent damage by accommodating CD-E2
movement. See also Control joint.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
121
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

External wall Any exterior face of a building within 30° of vertical, consisting Code
of primary and/or secondary elements intended to provide protection against
the outdoor environment, but which may also contain unprotected areas.

COMMENT:
A roof is an external wall if within 30° of the vertical.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 External wall An outer wall of a building. Simple House

F
Factor of safety in relation to any building means the ratio of resisting forces CD-B1
to applied forces for a given loading condition. It is generally expressed
to two significant figures.
Falsework, in relation to building work or the maintenance of a building,—` BA04
(a) means any temporary structure or framework used to support materials,
equipment, or an assembly; and
(b) includes steel tubes, adjustable steel props, proprietary frames, or other
means used to support a permanent structure until it becomes
self-supporting; but
(c) does not include scaffolding or cranes used for support.
Final exit The point at which an escape route terminates by giving direct access Code
to a safe place.

COMMENT:
Final exits are commonly the external doors from a ground floor, but this applies only if such
doors open directly onto a safe place. If a safe place can be reached only by passing down an
alley, or across a bridge, then the final exit is not reached until the end of such an alley or bridge.
Final exits, therefore, should be seen strictly as a point of arrival, rather than as any particular
element of a building. They are determined entirely by the definition of safe place.

Finished ground level (FGL) The level of the ground after all backfilling, CD-E2
landscaping and surface paving has been completed.
Fire The state of combustion during which flammable materials burn producing Code
heat, toxic gases, or smoke or flame or any combination of these.
Firecell Any space including a group of contiguous spaces on the same Code
or different levels within a building, which is enclosed by any combination
of fire separations, external walls, roofs, and floors.

COMMENT:
Floors, in this context, includes ground floors and those in which the underside is exposed
to the external environment (eg, when cantilevered). Note also that internal floors between
firecells are fire separations.

Firecell rating (F) The fire resistence rating (FRR) intended to prevent fire CD-C
spread to another firecell, for sufficient time to provide for safe evacuation
of occupants and protection of adjacent housing units and sleeping areas
in the building of fire origin and fire fighters engaged in fire fighting and
rescue operations.

122 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

COMMENT:
1. The purpose of the firecell rating is to prevent premature collapse of elements of structure
in order to protect:

(a) The occupants, some of whom may have to remain in the building for some time while
evacuation proceeds, particularly if the building is a large one.

(b) Adjacent household units and sleeping areas in the building of fire origin.

(c) Fire fighters engaged on rescue and fire fighting operations (although this is limited
because property protection in the building of origin is not a matter covered by the
New Zealand Building Code except as required by b) above).

2. The use of the F rating to determine the FRR of a primary or secondary element
is discussed in C/AS1 Part 5.

Fire damper A device with a specified FRR complete with fixings and CD-C
operating mechanism for automatically closing off an airway where it passes
through a fire separation.

COMMENT:
An airway may be a duct, plenum, ceiling space, roof space or similar construction used
for the passage of ventilating air.

Fire door A doorset, single or multi-leaf, having a specific fire resistance rating, CD-C
and in certain situations a smoke control capability, and forming part of a fire
separation. The door, in the event of fire, if not already closed, will close
automatically and be self latching.

COMMENT:
Requirements for fire doors are given in C/AS1 Paragraphs 6.19.1 and 6.19.8 and Appendix C,
Paragraph C 8.1.

Fire hazard means the danger of potential harm and degree of exposure BA04
arising from—
(a) the start and spread of fire; and
(b) the smoke and gases that are generated by the start and spread of fire.
Fire hazard category (FHC) The number (graded 1 to 4 in order of increasing CD-C
severity), used to classify purpose groups or activities having a similar fire
hazard, and where fully developed fires are likely to have similar impact
on the structural stability of the building.

COMMENT:
Fire hazard categories are identified in C/AS1 Table 2.1.

Fire intensity The rate release of calorific energy in watts, determined either Code
theoretically or empirically, as applicable.
Fire load The sum of the net calorific values of the combustible contents Code
which can reasonably be expected to burn within a firecell, including
furnishings, built-in and removable materials, and building elements.
The calorific values shall be determined at the ambient moisture content
or humidity. (The unit of measurement is MJ.)
Fire load energy density (FLED) The total fire load divided by the firecell CD-C
floor area. In this calculation the floor area shall include circulation and service
spaces, but exclude exitways and protected shafts.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 25 May 2007
123
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

COMMENT:
The total fire load is converted to fire load energy terms in megajoules (MJ) for calculation
of the FLED (MJ/m2).

Fireplace A space formed by the chimney back, the chimney jambs, and the CD-C, CD-B1
chimney breast in which fuel is burned for the purpose of heating the room
into which it opens.
Fire resistance rating (FRR) The term used to describe the minimum fire CD-C
resistance required of primary and secondary elements as determined in the
standard test for fire resistance, or in accordance with a specific calculation
method verified by experimental data from standard fire resistance tests.
It comprises three numbers giving the time in minutes for which each of the
criteria stability, integrity and insulation are satisfied, and is presented always
in that order.

COMMENT:
1. Examples of FRRs are:

(a) 30/30/15 indicating stability 30 minutes, integrity 30 minutes, insulation 15 minutes.

(b) 30/-/- indicating stability 30 minutes, but no time requirement for integrity or insulation.

(c) -/15/15 indicating no time requirement for stability, but 15 minutes for integrity
and insulation.

(d) 60/30/x indicating stability of 60 minutes, integrity of 30 minutes, and a requirement

for insulation from C/AS1 Paragraph 5.6.4.

2. C/AS1 Part 5 gives more information on FRRs.

Fire resisting closure A fire rated device or assembly for closing an opening Code
through a fire separation. It shall have a FRR of no less than that required
for the fire separation.

COMMENT:
A fire resisting closure is intended to include fire doors, fire windows or access panels.
In this context the opening may be used to permit passage of people or goods,
or to transmit light, but does not include an opening to permit the passage of building services.

Fire resisting glazing Fixed or openable glazing, complete with frame CD-C
and fixings, mullions, transoms and glazing beads, with a specified FRR
and complying with NZS 4232: Part 2.

COMMENT:
1. The requirement for fire resisting glazing will not be met by ordinary window glass,
or safety glasses, but rather by wired glass, or by special fire resisting glass shown
by test to perform adequately. The nature and design of the frames also have an effect
on the performance of fire resisting glazing.

2. Openable glazing is required by NZS 4232 Part 2 to be fitted with an automatic device
which, in the event of fire, will close and latch the window sash.

Fire safety precautions (FSPs) The combination of all methods used CD-C, CD-F7
in a building to warn people of an emergency, provide for safe evacuation,
and restrict the spread of fire, and includes both active and passive protection.

COMMENT:
This definition has the same meaning and wording as the definition of “fire safety systems”
in the Building Regulations.

124 25 May 2007 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Fire safety systems The combination of all methods used in a building Code
to warn people of an emergency, provide for safe evacuation, and restrict
the spread of fire, and includes both active and passive protection.
Fire separation Any building element which separates firecells or firecells Code
and safe paths, and provides a specific fire resistance rating.
Fire shutter A fire rated device, complete with fixings and operating CD-C
mechanism, for automatically closing off an opening in a fire separation
or protected shaft.
Fire stop A material or method of construction used to restrict the spread CD-C
of fire within or through fire separations, and having a FRR no less than that
of the fire separation.

COMMENT:
Fire stops are mainly used to seal around penetrations, but can also be used to seal
narrow gaps between building elements.

Fixture An article intended to remain permanently attached to and form Code

part of a building.
Fixture discharge pipe A discharge pipe that is used to convey waste from CD-G13
a single sanitary fixture or sanitary appliance to a branch discharge pipe,
a discharge stack, or directly to a drain. It does not include any pipes forming
part of a sanitary appliance.
Fixture vent pipe (trap vent) A vent pipe that is connected to a fixture CD-G13
discharge pipe or the sanitary fixture itself.
Flame barrier A material or system applied or installed to protect another CD-C
building element from flame contact. The protection shall be effective
for no less than 10 minutes exposure in the standard test for fire resistance.

COMMENT:
1. The principal use of flame barriers is to delay ignition of foamed plastics materials.

2. Refer to Appendix C Paragraph C10.1 of C/AS1 for details of the test requirements
for flame barriers.

Flame safeguard system A system consisting of a flame detector(s) CD-G11

plus associated circuitry, integral components, valves and interlocks the
function of which is to shut off the fuel supply to the burner(s) in the event
of ignition failure or flame failure.
Flammability index (FI) That index number for flammability, which CD-C
is determined according to the standard test method for flammability
of thin flexible materials.
Flashing A component, formed from a rigid or flexible waterproof material, CD-E2
that drains or deflects water back outside the cladding system.
Flexible flashing tape A flexible self-adhesive waterproof tape. Usually used CD-E2
Amend 11
Sep 2010 as an accessory for building wraps, to seal corners and intersections.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
125
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Flexible flashing tape A flexible self-adhesive waterproof tape. Usually used Simple House
as an accessory for wall underlays to seal corners and intersections
Flood level rim The top edge at which water can overflow from equipment CD-G12
or a fixture.
Floor area, in relation to a building, means the floor area (expressed in square Code
metres) of all interior spaces used for activities normally associated with
Amend 11
Sep 2010 domestic living.
Floor waste An outlet located at the low point of a graded floor or in a level CD-E3, CD-G13
floor designed to receive accidental or intentional discharges.
Floor waste gully A disconnector gully for installation inside a building, Simple House
for use with a floor grating or waste outlet fitting on a riser pipe and with
Amend 11
Sep 2010 provision, where required, for connection of waste pipes for sanitary fixtures.
Floor waste pipe A pipe that receives the discharge from a floor waste CD-G13
and that discharges outside the building or to the foul water drainage
or sanitary plumbing system.
Flue The passage through which the products of combustion are conveyed CD-B1, CD-B2,
to the outside. CD-C, CD-G4,
CD-G11
Flue liner Pipes or linings of fire clay, metal or fire brick, surrounding flues. CD-C
Flue system A series of interconnecting flue pipe casings which form a safe CD-C
passage (flue) for conveying products of combustion from within an appliance
to the outside of a building or structure.
Flush-finished The description of a cladding and joints system which relies CD-E2
on a protective coating applied to the face of the cladding to prevent the
penetration of water.
Foamed plastics Combustible foamed plastic polymeric materials of low CD-C
density (typically less than 100 kg/m3) and are classified as cellular polymers
which are manufactured by creating a multitude of fine voids
(typically 90 to 98%) distributed more or less uniformly throughout the product.
Examples of foamed plastics are latex foams, polyethylene foams, polyvinyl
chloride foams, expanded or extruded polystyrene foams, phenolic foams,
ureaformaldehyde foams, polyurethane foams and polychloropene foams.

COMMENT:
1. Foamed plastics may be rigid or flexible, but rigid foams are the most common
in building products. When burnt they tend to generate high levels of heat energy (kJ/kg)
and varying quantities of smoke and other toxic gases depending on the nature and volume
of the particular product.

2. Where doubt exists as to whether a building material is foamed plastics, an opinion should
be sought from a person or organisation with appropriate skill and experience in fire
engineering. That opinion should be included with the building consent application
to the building consent authority.

Footing That portion of a foundation bearing on the ground and any adjoining Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 portion that is reinforced so as to resist the bearing forces.

126 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Forced or induced draught appliance An appliance where all or part of the CD-G4
air for combustion is provided by a fan or other mechanical device which
is an integral part of the combustion system.
Former Act means the Building Act 1991. BA04
Foul water The discharge from any sanitary fixture or sanitary appliance. Code
Foul water drainage system Drains, joints and fittings normally laid Code
underground and used specifically for the conveyance of water from
the plumbing system to an outfall.
Foundation Those parts of a building transmitting and distributing loads Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 to the ground through a footing.
Framing Timber members to which lining, cladding, flooring, or decking CD-E2
is attached; or which are depended upon for supporting the structure,
or for resisting forces applied to it.
Free outlet (push through) In the context of storage water heaters means CD-G12
a water heater with a tap on the cold water inlet so designed that the
hot water is discharged through an open outlet.
Functional requirements in relation to a building, means those functions BA04
which a building is to perform for the purposes of the Building Act 2004.

G
Gable Triangular part of an external wall between the planes of the roof and Simple House
the line of the eaves.
Galvanised steel flashings Galvanised steel flashings shall be: Simple House
(a) BMT of 0.55 mm minimum for flashings generally
(b) BMT of 0.4 mm minimum for roll-formed roll-top ridge flashings
(c) Hot-dipped zinc coated Z275 with a factory-applied finish that complies
with AS/NZS 2728 Type 4, and in Sea Spray and corrosion Zone 1 the
Amend 11
Sep 2010 factory-applied finish shall be Type 5 minimum.
Gantry A structure covering a public way providing protection from both CD-F5
the side and overhead.
Gasfitting has the meaning given to it by section 2 of the Plumbers, BA04/PGDA
Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 1976.
Section 2 states:
“(a) The work of fixing or unfixing pipes (including flue and ventilation pipes)
beyond the outlet of any gas measurement system supplying a consumer
or gas refueller with gas (or, where there is no such gas measurement
system, beyond the custody transfer point of the place at which gas is
supplied to a consumer or gas refueller):
(b) The work of fixing or unfixing pipes (including flue and ventilation pipes)
that convey gas from any gas storage container in the possession or
control of a consumer or gas refueller, and—

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
127
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

(i) In the case of liquefied petroleum gas, that are downstream of

the first regulator beyond that container; or
(ii) In the case of any other gas or where there is no such regulator
(in the case of liquefied petroleum gas), that are downstream of
the outlet valve of the container:
(c) The work of fixing or unfixing the whole or part of the control system
of any gas appliance—
but does not include—
(d) Work on any gas storage container, including its fixing or unfixing; or
(e) Work on any gas transmission system or distribution system; or
(f) Work on any pipes or fittings supplied with liquefied petroleum gas
from any gas storage container or containers that contains, or together
contain, less than 15 kilograms net weight of liquefied petroleum gas; or
(g) Work in any circumstances where the exclusions in section 3(2) of the
Gas Act 1992 apply:]”
Gather That part of a chimney where the transition from fireplace to CD-B1
stack occurs.
Good ground means any soil or rock capable of permanently withstanding CD-B1
an ultimate bearing pressure of 300 kPa (i.e. an allowable bearing pressure
of 100 kPa using a factor of safety of 3.0), but excludes:
(a) Potentially compressible ground such as topsoil, soft soils such as clay
which can be moulded easily in the fingers, and uncompacted loose gravel
which contains obvious voids,
(b) Expansive soils being those that have a liquid limit of more than 50%
when tested in accordance with NZS 4402 Test 2.2, and a linear shrinkage
of more than 15% when tested, from the liquid limit, in accordance with
NZS 4402 Test 2.6, and
(c) Any ground which could forseeably experience movement of 25 mm
or greater for any reason including one or a combination of: land instability,
ground creep, subsidence, seasonal swelling and shrinking, frost heave,
changing ground water level, erosion, dissolution of soil in water, and effects
of tree roots.

COMMENT:
Soils (excepting those described in (a), (b) and (c) above) tested with a dynamic cone
penetrometer in accordance with NZS 4402 Test 6.5.2, shall be acceptable as good ground
for building foundations if penetration resistance is no less than:

(a) 3 blows per 75 mm at depths no greater than the footing width.

(b) 2 blows per 75 mm at depths greater than the footing width.

Depths shall be measured from the underside of the proposed footing.

128 25 May 2007 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Good ground Any soil or rock capable of permanently withstanding an Simple House
ultimate bearing pressure of 300 kPa (ie, an allowable bearing pressure
of 100 kPa using a factor of safety of 3.0) but excluding:
(a) potentially compressible ground such as top soil, soft soils such as clay
which can be moulded easily in the fingers, and uncompacted loose gravel
which contains obvious voids;
(b) expansive soils being those that have a liquid limit of more than 50% when
tested in accordance with NZS 4402 Test 2.2, and a linear shrinkage of more
than 15% when tested from the liquid limit in accordance with NZS 4402
Test 2.6, and
(c) any ground which could foreseeably experience movement of 25 mm
or greater for any reason including one or a combination of: land instability,
ground creep, subsidence, seasonal swelling and shrinkage, frost heave,
changing ground water level, erosion, dissolution of soil in water, and
effects of tree roots.
(Note that soils, excepting those described in (a), (b) and (c) above, tested
with a dynamic cone penetrometer in accordance with NZS 4402 Test 6.5.2,
shall be acceptable as good ground for building foundations if penetration
resistance is no less than:
(i) 3 blows per 75 mm at depths no greater than the footing width
(ii) 2 blows per 75 mm at depths greater than the footing width.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Depths shall be measured from the underside of the proposed footing.)
Grease trap A device designed to intercept grease in a foul water discharge. CD-G13,
CD-G14
Gross floor area The area contained within the outside face of the exterior Simple House
timber wall framing of a simple house.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Ground level See cleared ground level, finished ground level. Simple House
Group sleeping area A firecell containing communal sleeping accommodation CD-C
for a specified number of people who may or may not be known to one
another. Partial subdivision within the firecell is permitted with specific
limitation including that no occupied space is fully enclosed and all occupied
spaces are open and available to all occupants at any time. A group sleeping
area firecell may include spaces for associated direct support functions,
such as hygiene facilities and tea making (not cooking) activities, for use
by the occupants. It does not include spaces, such as waiting rooms, lounges,
dining rooms or kitchens, providing a communal service function for all occupants.

COMMENT:
1. Examples of group sleeping area firecells are dormitories, hospital wards, wharenui,
backpacker hostels and ski lodges.

2. The maximum number of people permitted in a group sleeping area firecell, and the
permitted form of subdivision, will depend on the ability of the occupants to react to the
presence of fire and escape to a safe place.

Gully trap A fitting designed to prevent foul air escaping from the drainage CD-G13
system and used to receive the discharge from waste pipes.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
129
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

H
Habitable space A space used for activities normally associated with domestic Code
living, but excludes any bathroom, laundry, water closet, pantry, walk-in
wardrobe, corridor, hallway, lobby, clothes-drying room, or other space
of a specialised nature occupied neither frequently nor for extended periods.

Handrail A rail to provide support to, or assist with the movement of a person. Code
Hazardous Creating an unreasonable risk to people of bodily injury or Code
deterioration of health.
Hazardous substance Has the meaning given to it by section 2 of the Code/FSA/
Fire Service Act 1975 and section 2 of the Hazardous Substances and HSNOA
New Organisms Act 1996
Section 2 of the Fire Service Act 1975 states:
“Hazardous substance” means
(a) Any hazardous substance as defined in section 2 of the Hazardous
Substances and New Organisms Act 1996; and
(b) Any infectious or radioactive substance that may impair human, animal,
or plant” health:
Section 2 of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 states:
``Hazardous substance'' means, unless expressly provided otherwise
by regulations, any substance—
(a) With one or more of the following intrinsic properties:
(i) Explosiveness:
(ii) Flammability:
(iii) A capacity to oxidise
(iv) Corrosiveness:
(v) Toxicity (including chronic toxicity
(vi) Ecotoxicity, with or without bioaccumulation; or
(b) Which on contact with air or water (other than air or water where the
temperature or pressure has been artificially increased or decreased)
generates a substance with any one or more of the properties specified
in paragraph (a) of this definition.”
Hearth The insulating floor under the fire and in front and at the sides of CD-B1, CD-C
the fireplace.
Heating degrees, in relation to a location and a heating month, means the Code
degrees obtained by subtracting from a base temperature of 14°C the mean
(calculated using the approved temperature data) of the outdoor temperatures
at that location during that month.
Heating degrees total, in relation to a location and a year, means whichever Code
is the greater of the following:
(a) the value of 12 and
(b) the sum of all the heating degrees (calculated using the approved
Amend 11
Sep 2010 temperature data) for all of the heating months of the year.

130 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Heating energy, in relation to a building, means the energy from a network Code
utility operator or a depletable resource (expressed in kilowatt-hours, and
calculated using the Building Research Association of New Zealand’s ALF 3,
The ‘Annual Loss Factor’ Method, A design tool for energy efficient houses
(3rd edition, April 2000) or some other method that can be correlated with that
manual) needed to maintain the building at all times within a year at a constant
internal temperature under the following standard conditions:
(a) a continuous temperature of 20°C throughout the building
(b) an air change rate of 1 change per hour or the actual air leakage rate,
whichever is the greater
(c) a heat emission contribution arising from internal heat sources for any period
in the year of 1000 kilowatt-hours for the first 50 m2 of floor area, and
10 kilowatt-hours for every additional square metre of floor area
(d) no allowance for—
(i) carpets or
(ii) blinds, curtains, or drapes, on windows
(e) windows to have a shading coefficient of 0.6 (made up of 0.8 for windows
and recesses and 0.75 for site shading).
Heating month, in relation to a location, means a month in which a base Code
temperature of 14°C is greater than the mean (calculated using the approved
temperature data) of the outdoor temperatures at that location during
Amend 11
Sep 2010 that month.
Hem A flat fold, not completely closed, applied to the edge of a metal flashing. CD-E2
Hidden gutter A gutter located within the boundaries of the roof framing. CD-E2
Hidden gutters may also be known as secret gutters or internal gutters.
See also Valley gutters.

COMMENT:
Hidden gutters are distinct from gutters or spouting that are externally located beyond
the bounds of the roof and wall framing.

Hoarding A structure alongside a public way providing side protection CD-F5

but no overhead protection.
Hold-open device A device which holds a smoke control door or fire door open CD-C, CD-F7,
during normal use, but is released by deactivating the device by an automatic CD-F8
fire detection system, allowing the door to close automatically under the action
of a self-closing device.
Hook An open fold applied to the edge of a metal flashing. CD-E2

COMMENT:
A hook is distinct from a hem, as it is open at an acute angle rather than flattened.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
131
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Household unit BA04

(a) means a building or group of buildings, or part of a building or group
of buildings, that is—
(i) used, or intended to be used, only or mainly for residential purposes; and
(ii) occupied, or intended to be occupied, exclusively as the home or residence
of not more than 1 household; but
(b) does not include a hostel, boarding house, or other specialised accommodation.
Household unit For a simple house, means a building or part of a building Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 that is used or intended to be used for residential purposes.
HVAC An abbreviation for heating, ventilating and airconditioning. CD-C, CD-F7
HVAC system for the purposes of performance H1.3.6 and in relation to a Code
building, means a mechanical, electrical, or other system for modifying air
temperature, modifying air humidity, providing ventilation, or doing all or any
Amend 11
Sep 2010 of those things, in a space within the building.

I
Illuminance The luminous flux falling onto a unit area of surface. Code
Impact insulation class (IIC) A single number rating derived from measured Code
values of normalized impact sound pressure levels in accordance with
Method ASTM E 492, Annex A1, Laboratory Measurement of Impact Sound
Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine.
It provides an estimate of the impact sound insulating performance of a
floor-ceiling assembly.
Impervious That which does not allow the passage of moisture. Code
Independent qualified person (IQP) means a person accepted by a territorial HB
authority in accordance with section 438 of the Building Act 2004 as being
qualified to carry out the inspection, maintenance, and reporting procedures
required for a specified system stated in a compliance schedule.
Inspection chamber A chamber with working space at ground level through CD-E1, CD-G13
which the drain passes either as an open channel or as a pipe incorporating
an inspection point.
Inspection point A removable cap at drain level through which access may CD-E1, CD-G13
be made for cleaning and inspecting the drainage system.
Insulating material A material that has a thermal conductivity of less CD-C, CD-E3
than 0.07 W/mK.
Insulation In the context of fire protection, the time in minutes for which Code
a prototype specimen of a fire separation, when subjected to the standard test
for fire resistance, has limited the transmission of heat through the specimen.

132 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Integrity In the context of fire protection, the time in minutes for which a Code
prototype specimen of a fire separation, when subjected to the standard test for
fire resistance, has prevented the passage of flame or hot gases.

COMMENT:
The precise meaning of integrity depends on the type of building elements being treated
and how it is defined in the standard test being used.

Intended use in relation to a building,— BA04

(a) includes any or all of the following:
(i) any reasonably foreseeable occasional use that is not incompatible with the
intended use:
(ii) normal maintenance:
(iii) activities undertaken in response to fire or any other reasonably foreseeable
emergency; but
(b) does not include any other maintenance and repairs or rebuilding.
Interceptor trap A device which will separate and retain desired liquids and CD-G14
solids from a liquid stream and which will provide a water barrier to prevent foul
air or gas from entering any downstream system.
Intermediate floor Any upper floor within a firecell and which is not fire CD-C
separated from the floor below. Upper floors within household units need not
meet the specific fire safety requirements which apply to intermediate floors
in all other situations.

COMMENT:
1. An intermediate floor may be open to the firecell or enclosed with non-fire rated
construction. If enclosed with fire rated walls another firecell is created.

2. Household units occur only in purpose groups SR and SH. Life safety provisions are
governed by the limitations in permitted open path lengths.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Internal wall A wall other than an external wall. Simple House

K
Kerb ramp means a short ramp either cutting through a kerb or built up to CD-D1
the kerb.
Kick-out A single fold applied to the edge of a horizontal metal flashing to CD-E2
deflect moisture away from the cladding system below. Refer also Bird’s beak.

COMMENT:
A kick-out is used at the bottom of a capping or other flashing to deflect water away from
the cladding below.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
133
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

L
Lead flashings Lead sheet flashings that: Simple House
(a) comply with AS 1804, and
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (b) have a minimum unit mass of 17 kg/m².
Licensee A person holding a licence issued under the Radiation Protection CD-F8
Act 1965 and for the time being in force.
Licensed building practitioner means a building practitioner whose name is, BA04
for the time being, entered in the register established and maintained under
section 298(1) of the Building Act 2004.
Lightweight wall cladding Timber weatherboard (bevel-back or rusticated) Simple House
or flat sheet (plywood or fibre-cement) wall claddings for use in this [Simple
Amend 11
Sep 2010 House] Acceptable Solution.
Limited area atrium A single firecell in which individual occupied spaces CD-C
at different levels open onto a common enclosed space. Limitations are placed
on the number of intermediate floors (no more than two levels), individual floor
areas and permitted occupant load, depending on the provisions for smoke
detection, smoke control and the means of escape from fire.

COMMENT:
Typical limited area atrium buildings are small shopping malls, and motel complexes with
a central atrium feature open to a number of floors.

Lining The rigid sheet covering for a wall, ceiling or other interior surface. CD-E2
Lintel A horizontal framing member spanning an opening in a wall. Simple House
Loadbearing stud A stud in a loadbearing wall. Simple House
Loadbearing wall A wall supporting vertical loading from a roof. Simple House
Loaded dimension The loaded dimension of structural elements which Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 support other members at right angles. Refer to [SH/AS1] Figure 5.2.2.
Lock-out The safety shut down condition of the control system such that CD-C, CD-G11
re-start cannot be accomplished without manual resetting.

M
Amend 11
Sep 2010 M A steel bolt of the stated diameter in millimetres. Simple House
Main private stairway A private stairway intended to provide access to and CD-D1
between frequently used spaces such as living areas, kitchens and garages,
and includes all exterior private stairways.
Masonry tiles Clay or concrete tile roof cladding. CD-E2
Masonry veneer Clay or concrete block veneer cladding. CD-E2

134 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Means of escape from fire, in relation to a building that has a floor area,— BA04
(a) means continuous unobstructed routes of travel from any part of the floor
area of that building to a place of safety, and
(b) includes all active and passive protection features required to warn people
of fire and to assist in protecting people from the effects of fire in the course
of their escape from the fire.
Member span The clear distance between supports, measured along Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 the member.
Membrane A non-metallic material, usually synthetic, used as a fully supported CD-E2
roof cladding, deck surface or, in conjunction with other claddings, as gutters
or flashings.
Minister means the Minister of the Crown who, under the authority of BA04
a warrant or with the authority of the Prime Minister, is responsible for the
administration of the Building Act 2004.
Minor private stairway A private stairway not on a main thoroughfare, CD-D1
and intended to provide infrequent access to a single room which is not a living
area or kitchen.
MSG Machine stress graded refers to timber that is initially sorted by machine, Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 calibrated to NZS 3603. See also VSG.
Multi-unit dwelling Applies to a building or use which contains more than one CD-C
separate household or family.

COMMENT:
For fire safety purposes each household unit is a separate firecell.

N
Natural draught The flow produced by the tendency of warmed gases to rise. CD-G4
Natural hazard has the meaning given to it by section 71 of the Building BA04
Act 2004.
Section 71(3) states:
“(3) In this section and sections 72 to 74, natural hazard means any of
the following:
(a) erosion (including coastal erosion, bank erosion, and sheet erosion):
(b) falling debris (including soil, rock, snow, and ice):
(c) subsidence:
(d) inundation (including flooding, overland flow, storm surge, tidal effects,
and ponding):
(e) slippage.”
Net openable area is the area of windows or doors or other opening measured CD-G4
Amend 11
Sep 2010 on the face dimensions of the openable building element concerned.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
135
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Network utility operator means a person who— BA04

(a) undertakes or proposes to undertake the distribution or transmission by
pipeline of natural or manufactured gas, petroleum, or geothermal energy; or
(b) operates or proposes to operate a network for the purpose of—
(i) telecommunication as defined in section 5 of the Telecommunications
Act 2001; or
(ii) radiocommunications as defined in section 2(1) of the
Radiocommunications Act 1989; or
(c) is an electricity operator or electricity distributor as defined in section 2
of the Electricity Act 1992 for the purpose of line function services as
defined in that section; or
(d) undertakes or proposes to undertake the distribution of water for supply
(including irrigation); or
(e) undertakes or proposes to undertake a drainage or sewerage system
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Nogging See dwang Simple House
Nominal pile width The least width of a pile in side view and is equal CD-B1
to the diameter in round piles.
Non-combustible Materials shall be classified as non-combustible CD-B1, CD-C
or combustible when tested to: AS 1530 – Part 1.
Non-loadbearing stud A stud in a non-loadbearing wall. Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Non-loadbearing wall A wall other than a loadbearing wall. Simple House
Non-return valve A valve that permits flow in one direction but prevents CD-G12
a return flow and is part of a hot or cold water system.
Nosing The rounded projecting edge of a stair tread. CD-D1, CD-F4
Notice to fix has the meaning given to it by section 164(2) of the Building BA04
Act 2004.
Section 164(2) states:
“(2) A responsible authority must issue to the specified person concerned
a notice (a notice to fix) requiring the person—
(a) to remedy the contravention of, or to comply with, this Act or the
regulations; or
(b) to correct the warrant of fitness; or
(c) to properly comply with the inspection, maintenance, or reporting
procedures stated in the compliance schedule.”
Notional boundary The boundary which for fire safety purposes, is assumed to CD-C
exist between two buildings on the same property under a single land title.

COMMENT:
A notional boundary may be located anywhere between the two buildings on the same property.
It is not fixed and for the purposes of calculating permitted unprotected areas of each building
Amend 11 it can be moved towards the other building thus maximising the permitted unprotected area.
Sep 2010

NUO system means a system owned or controlled by a network utility operator. BA04

136 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

O
Occupant load The greatest number of people likely to occupy a particular CD-C, CD-F6,
space within a building. It is determined by: CD-F7
(a) Multiplying the number of people per m 2 (occupant density) for the activity
being undertaken, by the total floor area, or
(b) For sleeping areas, counting the number of beds, or
(c) For fixed seating areas, counting the number of seats.
Occupied space Any space within a building in which a person will be present Code
from time to time during the intended use of the building.
Open path That part of an escape route (including dead ends) not protected Code
by fire or smoke separations, and which terminates at a final exit or exitway.
Open space includes land on which there is and will be no buildings and which CD-C
has no roof over any part of it other than overhanging eaves.
Open vented storage water heater A water heater incorporating a vent pipe CD-G12
which is permanently open to the atmosphere.
Other property— BA04
(a) means any land or buildings, or part of any land or buildings, that are—
(i) not held under the same allotment; or
(ii) not held under the same ownership; and
(b) includes a road
Outdoor air Air as typically comprising by volume: Code
(i) oxygen 20.94%
(ii) carbon dioxide 0.03%
(iii) nitrogen and other inert gases 79.03%.
Outfall That part of the disposal system receiving surface water or foul water Code
from the drainage system. For foul water, the outfall may include a sewer
or a septic tank. For surface water, the outfall may include a natural water
course, kerb and channel, or soakage system.
Over-pressure protection Devices preventing the pressure in piping CD-G11
or appliances from exceeding a predetermined value.
Owner, in relation to land and any buildings on the land,— BA04
(a) means the person who—
(i) is entitled to the rack rent from the land; or
(ii) would be so entitled if the land were let to a tenant at a rack rent; and
(b) includes—
(i) the owner of the fee simple of the land; and
(ii) any person who has agreed in writing, whether conditionally or
unconditionally, to purchase the land or any leasehold estate or interest
in the land or to take a lease of the land and who is bound by the
agreement because the agreement is still in force.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 25 May 2007
137
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

P
Parallel flashing A roof flashing that runs along the roof slope, parallel to the CD-E2
roof cladding profile. Also known as a longitudinal flashing.
Parapet A timber-framed wall that extends above the level of the roof cladding. CD-E2
Passive stack ventilator A system including a ventilation shaft which uses CD-G4
Amend 11
Sep 2010 natural draught to ventilate spaces.
Penetration A pipe, cable or duct passing through an opening in a fire separation. CD-C
Penstocks are conduits to control the flow of water in water supply, DG
hydroelectric power and sewerage systems. Penstocks are normally equipped
with a gate system and surge tank.
People with disabilities People whose ability to use buildings is affected Code
by mental, physical, hearing or sight impairment.
Performance criteria in relation to a building, means those qualitative BA04
or quantitative criteria that the building is required to satisfy in performing its
functional requirement.
Permanent opening An opening which cannot be closed, this implies that CD-G4
Amend 11
Sep 2010 doors, windows etc are NOT permanent openings, although door undercuts are.
Person includes the Crown, a corporation sole, and also a body of persons, BA04
whether corporate or unincorporated.
Person with a disability means a person who has an impairment or BA04
a combination of impairments that limits the extent to which the person can
engage in the activities, pursuits, and processes of everyday life, including,
without limitation, any of the following:
(a) a physical, sensory, neurological, or intellectual impairment:
(b) a mental illness.
Piping system An assembly of pipes, pipe fittings, gaskets, bolting and pipe CD-G14
supports.
Pitch line The line joining the leading edge or nosings (if any) of successive CD-F4
stair treads within a single flight of stairs. (Sep 07)
Plans and specifications— BA04
(a) means the drawings, specifications, and other documents according to which
a building is proposed to be constructed, altered, demolished, or removed; and
(b) includes the proposed procedures for inspection during the construction,
alteration, demolition, or removal of a building; and
(c) in the case of the construction or alteration of a building, also includes—
(i) the intended use of the building; and
(ii) the specified systems that the applicant for building consent considers will
be required to be included in a compliance schedule required under
section 100; and
(iii) the proposed procedures for inspection and routine maintenance for the
purposes of the compliance schedule for those specified systems.

138 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Plate A timber member supported by a foundation or studs to support Simple House

and distribute the load from floors, walls, roofs or ceilings.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 See bottom plate, top plate.
Plumbing system Pipes, joints and fittings laid above ground and used for the Code
conveyance of foul water to the foul water drain, and includes vent pipes.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Post An isolated vertical member acting as a support. Simple House
Potable (and potable water) Water that is suitable for human consumption. CD-G12
Potential impact classification is related to the consequence (effects) of the DG
dam failing, if it should release its stored contents. Consequences include
loss of life, socio-economic, financial and environmental.
Prescribed electrical work has the meaning given to it by section 2(1) of the BA04, EA
Electricity Act 1992.
Primary element A building element providing the basic load bearing capacity CD-B2, CD-C
to the structure, and which if affected by fire may initiate instability or
premature structural collapse.

COMMENT:
Suspended floors in multi-storey buildings are primary elements.

Principal user A member of the primary group for which a building was Code
constructed, and therefore explicitly excludes persons or groups of persons
providing care or control of that principal user group.
Privacy The situation of being withdrawn from view. CD-G1
Private stairway A stairway used, or intended to be used, by the occupants CD-D1
of a single household unit.
Privy A private room containing a receptacle (other than a WC) or an excavation CD-G1
for excreted liquid or solid human waste, and with a means of disposal
or containment of the waste.
Producer statements are formal statements supplied by or on behalf of HB
(i) an applicant for a building consent, or
(ii) by or on behalf of a person who has carried out building work.
that can be accepted by a building consent authority as verification that certain
work will be or has been carried out in accordance with nominated performance
requirements of the Building Code.

COMMENT:
Although no longer expressly referred to in the Building Act 2004, these could be accepted
and considered as part of the plans or specifications.

Product certificate means a certificate issued under section 269 of the HB

Building Act 2004 that a building consent authority must accept as establishing
compliance with the Building Code.
Product certification accreditation body means the person referred to in BA04
section 261(2) of the Building Act 2004.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
139
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Property includes land, buildings, and goods; but does not include incorporeal BA04
forms of property.
Proprietary fasteners Proprietary fasteners may be used where the fixing Simple House
capacity of fixings are specifically identified in this [SH/AS1] Acceptable Solution.
Manufacturers of a timber connector or fixing shall provide the following
information on each package of fixings, or on a securely attached label:
(a) the name, or registered trade name, or make and address of manufacturer
(b) the materials used in manufacture including fasteners and corrosion protection
(c) the load capacity of the timber connector or fixing in kN determined in
accordance with the following equation:
R = w x Qk x n x k
Where:
R = connector capacity in kN
w = capacity reduction factor from NZS 3603
Qk= characteristic value obtained by test in accordance with BRANZ
Evaluation Method EM1 or AS/NZS 2699: Part 2 as appropriate
n = number of tested elements making up the complete joint
k = modification factors from NZS 3603 (Section 4) as appropriate
to specific application.
(d) fastener’s requirements
(e) details of intended use
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (f) durability in accordance with Paragraph 2.5.4.
Protected path That portion of an exitway within a firecell which is protected Code
from the effects of smoke by smoke separations.
Protected shaft A space, other than a safe path, enclosed by fire separations CD-C
or external walls used to house building services, lifts, or conveyors which pass
from one firecell to another.
Purlin A horizontal member laid to span across rafters or trusses, and to which CD-E2
the roof cladding is attached.
Purlin Includes tile batten. A horizontal member laid to span across rafters Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 or trusses and to which the roof cladding is attached.
Purpose group The classification of spaces within a building according to the Code
activity for which the spaces are used.

140 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

R
Amend 11
Sep 2010 R A plain round reinforcing bar of the stated diameter in millimetres. Simple House
R-value The common abbreviation for describing the values of both thermal CD-E3, CD-G5,
resistance and total thermal resistance. CD-H1
Radiocommunications has the same meaning as in section 2(1) of the
Radiocommunications Act 1989.
Rafter A framing timber, normally parallel to the slope of the roof, providing CD-E2
support for sarking, purlins or roof cladding.
Rafter A framing timber normally parallel to the slope of the roof and Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 providing support for the purlins or roof covering, or ceiling lining.
Railway line has the meaning ascribed to it by section 2 of the Transport CD-C, RA
Services Licensing Act 1989.
The definition of ‘Railway line’ in the Transport Services Licensing Act 1989 has
been repealed by the Railways Act 2005. Section 4 of the Railways Act 2005
now contains the definition for “railway line”.
Section 4 states
``railway line'' —
(a) means a single rail or set of rails, having a gauge of 550 mm or greater
between them, laid for the purposes of transporting people or goods by
rail; and
(b) includes—
(i) sleepers, associated formation and ballast, tunnels, and bridges; and
(ii) in relation to a single rail or set of rails that are laid on a road for the
purposes of 1 or more light rail vehicles,—
(A) any area between the rails; and
(B) the area that extends 500 mm outside the extremity of any light
rail vehicle being used on that single rail or set of rails; and
(iii) a set of rails, having a gauge of less than 550 mm between them,
that is designated as a railway line in regulations made under
section 59(l); and
(iv) except as provided in subparagraph (ii), any area within 5 m of a single
rail or within 5 m of a line drawn midway between a set of rails; but
(c) excludes—
(i) a railway line that is part of a railway used as an amusement device
as defined in section 21A(1) of the Machinery Act 1950:
(ii) a railway line excluded by regulations made under section 59(m):
(iii) a railway line that exclusively serves private cable cars”.
Reasonably visible, in relation to a specified feature, and for the purposes Code
of Clause F6, means that the specified feature is visible to a person who—
(a) is 10 metres from it, or the greatest distance from it that it is possible
to go in the open space surrounding it, whichever is the lesser; and
(b) has sight that is not defective, or is corrected (for example, by an
Amend 11
Sep 2010 optical appliance).

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
141
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Reflectance The ratio of the flux reflected from a surface to the flux incident CD-G7, CD-G8
on it.
Regional authority means— BA04
(a) a regional council; or
(b) a unitary authority
Regional council has the meaning given to it by section 5(1) of the BA04
Local Government Act 2002.
Registrar has the meaning given to it by section 282 of the Building Act 2004. BA04
Regulations means regulations in force under the Building Act 2004. BA04
Regulator A device which automatically regulates the pressure or volume CD-G10,
of gas passing through it to a predetermined level. CD-G11
Reinforcement Any form of reinforcing rod, bar or mesh that complies with Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 the relevant requirements of NZS 3109.
Relevant boundary means the boundary of an allotment which is other CD-C
property in relation to the building concerned and from which is measured
the separation between the building and that other property. For the external
wall of any building, the relevant boundary shall be the nearest of the following
boundaries:
(a) A boundary of a freehold allotment, except that where the other property
is a road, railway line or public open space the relevant boundary is the
boundary on the far side of that other property.
(b) A boundary of a cross-lease or of a company lease or licence, except that
where the other property is open space to which the lessee or licensee
of the building concerned has an exclusive right of access and occupation
or to which two or more occupiers have rights of access and occupation
the relevant boundary is the boundary on the far side of that other property.
(c) A boundary shown on a unit plan excluding a boundary between a principal
unit and its accessory unit, except that where the other property is open space
which is common property, the relevant boundary is the boundary on the far
side of that other property.

142 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

COMMENT:
1. Where an easement, such as a right of way, occurs within an allotment, the relevant
boundary shall remain the same as if the easement did not exist.

2. Boundaries within a cross-lease or company lease or licence are shown on a survey plan.
In some cases the boundary is the external wall or roof of a building.

3. The unit title boundaries of principal units, accessory units, and common property are
shown in the unit plan. A boundary is frequently an internal or external wall, an upper floor,
or the roof of a building.

4. A wall along a boundary between two allotments is called a “party wall” when the owners
of the allotments each have legal rights in respect of that wall registered by way of
easements on one or both titles. An internal wall between cross-leases, company leases,
or unit titles, or between one of them and common property, is not generally called a party
wall but in that case also the lessees, unit title holders, or corporate body concerned each
have legal rights in respect of that wall. Such a wall separates areas which are other
property in relation to each other, but the wall itself is part of each property. The fire
protection consequence of that legal concept is that such a wall can be regarded as a fire
separation providing protection against horizontal fire spread in each direction. In other
words, that wall may provide the appropriate FRR instead of each property having its own
wall of that FRR.

Relief vent A vent pipe which is connected to a discharge stack below the CD-G13
lowest branch connection and which connects at its upper end to the discharge
stack vent or terminates as an open vent.
Reservoir Body of water impounded by one or more dams or dikes, inclusive DG
of its shores and banks and of any facility or installation necessary for
its operation.
Ribbon board Includes soffit plate. A horizontal framing timber secured to, Simple House
or checked into, the edges of studs and supporting eaves bearers.
Ridge beam A single beam that supports rafters of a skillion roof. Simple House
Risk group A, for the purposes of performance F6.3.4 and performance F6.3.5, Code
means buildings—
(a) whose occupants are required to remain in the building until the main
lighting system is restored; or
(b) whose evacuation time is longer than 90 minutes.
Risk group B, for the purposes of performance F6.3.4 and performance F6.3.5, Code
means buildings—
(a) whose evacuation time is 30 minutes or longer but not longer than
90 minutes; or
(b) whose occupant load is more than 1 000.
Risk group C, for the purposes of performance F6.3.4, means buildings not Code
Amend 11
Sep 2010 in risk group A or risk group B.
Reservoir capacity Total or gross storage capacity of the reservoir at full DG
supply level.
Risk matrix A table that allows the calculation of a risk score by the allocation CD-E2
and summing of scores for a range of design and location factors applying
to a specific building design.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
143
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Risk score An aggregated numerical score for a proposed building as defined CD-E2
by E2/AS1.The risk score is determined by completion of the risk matrix.
Road has the meaning ascribed to it by section 315 of the Local Government CD-C/LGA
Act 1974 and includes a public place and also includes a motorway.
Rodding point A removable cap at ground level through which access may CD-E1, CD-G13
be made for cleaning and inspecting the drainage system.
Roof underlay An absorbent permeable building paper that absorbs or collects CD-E2
condensation or water that may penetrate the roof cladding or metal wall cladding.
Roof underlay An absorbent, permeable paper that absorbs or collects Simple House
condensation or water that may penetrate the roof cladding.
The roof underlay shall have the properties in Table 23 of the Acceptable
Solution E2/AS1 for Building Code Clause E2 External Moisture:
(a) absorbency of 100 g/m2 or greater
(b) vapour resistance 7 MN s/g or less
(c) water resistance of 100 mm or greater
(d) pH of extract of between 6.0 and 9.0
(e) shrinkage no more than 0.5%
(f) mechanical edge tear and tensile strength to AS/NZS 4200.
Roof That part of the building having its upper surface exposed to the outside Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 and at an angle of between 10º and 35º to the horizontal. See skillion roof.
Room-sealed appliance An appliance designed so that air for combustion CD-G4
neither enters from, nor combustion products enter into, the room in which
the appliance is located.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Running bonds, See bond Simple House

S
Saddle flashing A flashing used to weatherproof the junction between CD-E2
a horizontal and vertical surface.
Safe path That part of an exitway which is protected from the effects of fire Code
by fire separations, external walls, or by distance when exposed to open air.
Safe place A place of safety in the vicinity of a building, from which people may Code
safely disperse after escaping the effects of a fire. It may be a place such
as a street, open space, public space or an adjacent building.
Safety colour (green, red or yellow) A colour of specified properties to which CD-F8
a safety meaning is attributed.
Safety glass means a glass so treated or combined with other materials as CD-F2
to reduce the likelihood of injury to persons when it is cracked or broken.
Safety shut-off system An arrangement of valves and associated control CD-G10
systems which shuts off the supply of gas when required by a device which
senses an unsafe condition.

144 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Safety sign A particular type of sign which comprises a geometric form and CD-F8
a safety colour, together with a safety symbol or text (that is, words, letters,
numbers or a combination of these) and gives a particular safety message.
Safety symbol means a graphic symbol used in a safety sign. CD-F8
Sanitary appliance An appliance which is intended to be used for sanitation, Code
but which is not a sanitary fixture. Included are machines for washing dishes
and clothes.
Sanitary fixture Any fixture which is intended to be used for sanitation. Code
Sanitation The term used to describe the activities of washing and/or excretion Code
carried out in a manner or condition such that the effect on health is minimised,
with regard to dirt and infection.
Scaffolding used in the course of the construction process, means any structure, BA04
framework, swinging stage, suspended scaffolding, or boatswain’s chair, that
is of a temporary nature and that is used or intended to be used for: the support
or protection of workers engaged in, or in connection with construction work
for the purpose of carrying out that work, or the support of materials used
in connection with the work; and includes any plank, coupling, fastening, fitting,
or device used in connection with the construction, erection, or use of scaffolding.
Scupper An opening in a parapet or enclosed balustrade to allow water to CD-E2
drain into a rainwater head.
Sealant A flexible neutral cure sealant for gap filling and weatherproofing Simple House
that complies with:
(a) Type F, Class 20 LM or 25 LM of ISO 11600, or
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (b) low modulus Type II Class A of Federal Specification TT-S-00230C.
Secondary element A building element not providing load bearing capacity CD-B2, CD-C
to the structure and if affected by fire, instability or collapse of the building
structure will not occur.
Secondary flow path The path over which surface water will follow if the CD-E1
drainage system becomes overloaded or inoperative.
Secondary private stairway A private stairway other than a main or minor CD-D1
private stairway, intended to provide access to another floor containing only
bedrooms, bathroom or similar accommodation.
Service ramp means a ramp that is used, or intended to be used, infrequently CD-D1
by service personnel to gain access to spaces for the purposes of maintenance
and the movement of goods.
Service stairway means a stairway that is used, or intended to be used, CD-D1
infrequently by service personnel to gain access to spaces for the purposes
of maintenance and the movement of goods.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
145
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Sewer A drain that is under the control of, or maintained by, a network Code
utility operator.
Simple house A house that is described in Section 1 of this [SH/AS1] Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Acceptable Solution.
Sitework means work on a building site, including earthworks, preparatory to, BA04
or associated with the construction, alteration, demolition, or removal
of a building.
Skillion roof A pitched roof where the ceiling lining is parallel and close Simple House
to the roof cladding. The roof may be mono-pitch or may consist of more
Amend 11
Sep 2010 than one roof plane. These roofs may have rafters exposed below the ceiling.
Smokecell A space within a building which is enclosed by an envelope of CD-C
smoke separations, or external walls, roofs, and floors.
Smoke control door A doorset with closefitting single or multi-leaves which CD-C
are impermeable to the passage of smoke, fitted with smoke seals and installed
within a smoke separation. The door, in the event of smoke, if not already
closed, will close automatically and be held closed.

COMMENT:
1. A smoke control door may be held closed by use of a door closer. The door need not
be latched.

2. Requirements for smoke control doors are given in C/AS1 Paragraph 6.19.1 and 6.19.8,
and Appendix C Paragraph C8.1.

Smoke developed index (SDI) That index number for smoke developed when CD-C
determined according to the standard test method for measuring the properties
of lining materials.
Smoke separation Any vertical, horizontal or inclined building element with Code
known smoke-stopping or smoke-leakage characteristics.
Socket outlet An accessory fixed to a wall or ceiling and designed to accept CD-G2
a plug that extends the electrical supply to an appliance by means of
a flexible cable.
Soffit bearer See eaves bearer. Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Soffit plate See ribbon board. Simple House
Soft edge A compatible soft edging seamed onto flashings to provide closure CD-E2
to profiled cladding.
Soil fixture A sanitary fixture constructed to receive solid and/or liquid excreted CD-G1, CD-G13
human waste. It includes bedpan disposal units, slop sinks, urinals, water closet
pans, and water-flushed sanitary towel disposal units.
Sound transmission class (STC) A single number rating derived from measured Code
values of transmission loss in accordance with classification ASTM E 413,
Determination of Sound Transmission Class. It provides an estimate of the
performance of a partition in certain common sound insulation situations.
Amend 11 Spacing or spaced The distance at which members are spaced, measured Simple House
Sep 2010
centre to centre.
Spans See member span and support span. Simple House

146 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Specific design Design and detailing of a proposed building or parts of a building, CD-E2
demonstrating compliance with the Building Code, that shall be provided to the
building consent authority for assessment and approval as part of the building
consent process. Buildings, or parts of buildings, requiring specific design are
beyond the scope of E2/AS1.
Specific design Design and detailing of a proposed building or parts of Simple House
a building, demonstrating compliance with the Building Code, that shall be
provided to the building consent authority for assessment and approval
as part of the building consent process. Buildings, or parts of buildings,
requiring specific design are beyond the scope of the Simple House
Acceptable Solution.
Specified features, for the purposes of Clause F6, means the following: Code
(a) building elements that may act as obstructions:
(b) safety features required under clauses of the Building Code other than
Clause F6 (for example, handrails required under Clause D1):
(c) changes in direction:
(d) stairs and ramps:
(e) escape doors:
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (f) entries to a safe place.
Specified intended life has the meaning given to it by section 113(3) of the BA04
Building Act 2004.
Section 113(3) states:
“(3) In subsection (2), specified intended life, in relation to a building, means
the period of time, as stated in an application for a building consent or
in the consent itself, for which the building is proposed to be used for
its intended use.”
Specified system— BA04
(a) means a system or feature that—
(i) is contained in a building; and
(ii) contributes to the proper functioning of the building
(for example, an automatic sprinkler system);
And
(iii) is declared by the Governor-General, by Order in Council, to be a specified
system for the purposes of this Act; and
(b) includes a cable car.
Spread of flame index (SFI) That index number for spread of flame which CD-C
is determined according to the standard test method for measuring the
properties of lining materials.
Spillway Weir, channel, conduit, tunnel, gate or other structure designed DG
to permit discharges from the reservoir.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
147
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Stability In the context of fire protection, the time in minutes for which Code
a prototype specimen of a primary element, when subject to the standard test
for fire resistance, has continued to carry its fire design load without failure.

COMMENT:
Amend 11 The fire design load should be as specified in B1/VM1.
Sep 2010

Stairway A series of steps or stairs with or without landings, including all CD-C, CD-D1
necessary handrails and giving access between two different levels.
Stainless steel flashings Stainless steel flashings shall be: Simple House
(a) minimum thickness of 0.45 mm, and
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (b) Type 304 or 316 stainless steel in accordance with Table 1 of ISO/TS 15510.
Stanchion A connecting device, fixed into the structure of a building, CD-E2
that provides support for handrails, aerials and similar structures.
Standards means specifications for building materials, methods, processes HB
or practices that provide a basis for determining consistent and acceptable
minimum levels of quality, performance, safety and reliability.

COMMENT:
Standards are developed by organisations that are recognised by the Government.
In New Zealand, standards are developed by a trading arm of the Standards Council, a crown
entity operating under the Standards Act 1988. In Australia, standards are developed by
Standards Australia, which is recognised through a memorandum of understanding with the
Commonwealth Government.

Standard test A test method which is recognised as being appropriate CD-C

for the fire protection properties being assessed.

COMMENT:
A list of standard test methods is given in Appendix C of C/AS1.

Standard year For the purposes of determining natural lighting, the hours Code
between 8 am and 5 pm each day with an allowance being made for
daylight saving.
Statutory authority means an authority or organisation that has the statutory BA04
power to classify or register land or buildings for any purpose.
Stopend A turn-up at the upper edge of profiled metal cladding, or at the end CD-E2
of gutters and some types of flashings.

COMMENT:
A stopend assists the control of moisture by ensuring any moisture reaching the edge of the
roofing is deflected from further entry.

Storage water heater A water tank with an integral water heater for the CD-G12
storage of hot water.
Storey That portion of a building included between the upper surface of any CD-E2
floor and the upper surface of the floor immediately above, except the top
storey shall be that portion of a building included between the upper surface
of the topmost floor and the ceiling or roof above.

148 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Strength reduction factor The factor by which the ultimate strength is CD-B1
multiplied to obtain the design strength.

COMMENT:
NZS 4203: 1992 uses the terms ideal strength in place of ultimate strength, and dependable
strength in place of design strength.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Stretcher bonds, See bond Simple House
Structural fire endurance rating (S) The fire resistance rating (FRR) CD-C
intended to prevent fire spread or structural collapse for the complete burnout
of the firecell.
Stucco A wall cladding system formed from reinforced solid plaster over CD-E2
a rigid or non-rigid backing.
Stud A vertical framing timber. CD-E2
Suite A firecell providing residential accommodation for the exclusive use CD-C, CD-F7
of one person or of several people known to one another. It comprises one
or more rooms for sleeping and may include spaces used for associated
domestic activities such as hygiene and cooking.

COMMENT:
1. Bed numbers are limited to 6 in purpose groups SC and SD or 12 in purpose group SA
in accordance with C/AS1 Paragraphs 6.6.5 and 6.7.6. Examples may be found in hotels,
motels and residential care facilities, such as old people’s homes or in hospices providing
temporary family accommodation.

2. It is assumed that the social cohesion of the occupants by virtue of the personal relationship
(as family members, friends or associates) would ensure that any individual, becoming
aware of fire, would naturally assist others within the firecell to escape. The term suite
does not apply to a group of bedrooms where each room is available to different
“key-holders”. In some cases a suite may be a single bedroom.

Sump A chamber which is installed in the drain and incorporates features CD-E1
to intercept and retain silt, gravel and other debris.
Supervise, in relation to building work, means provide control or direction BA04
and oversight of the building work to an extent that is sufficient to ensure
that the building work—
(a) is performed competently; and
(b) complies with the building consent under which it is carried out.
Support span A clear distance along a member between supports, Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 measured in plan (horizontally).
Surface finish The combination of a surface coating and substrate material CD-C
on surfaces of building elements exposed to view. It can be an applied
decorative coating or the uncoated building element itself. For interior surfaces
the requirements are evaluated in terms of SFI and SDI. For exterior surfaces
the requirements are evaluated in terms of rate of heat release as determined
by Appendix C, Paragraph C9.1.
Surface water All naturally occurring water, other than sub-surface water, Code
which results from rainfall on the site or water flowing onto the site,
including that flowing from a drain, stream, river, lake or sea.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
148a
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

T
Tailing dam Dam constructed to retain tailings or other waste materials from DG
mining or industrial operations.
Tailpipe A device placed at the low point of a gas piping system to collect CD-G10
condensate, and from which the condensate may be removed.
Territorial authority (TA) means a city council or district council named in BA04
Part 2 of Schedule 2 of the Local Government Act 2002; and—
(a) in relation to land within the district of a territorial authority, or a building
on or proposed to be built on any such land, means that territorial authority; and
(b) in relation to any part of a coastal marine area (within the meaning of the
Resource Management Act 1991) that is not within the district of a territorial
authority, or a building on or proposed to be built on any such part, means the
Amend 11
Sep 2010 territorial authority whose district is adjacent to that part.
Territorial authority City or district council (as named in Schedule 2, Part 2 Simple House
of the Local Government Act 2002) responsible for community wellbeing and
development, environmental health and safety (including building control, civil
defence, and environmental health matters), infrastructure (roading and transport,
sewerage, water/stormwater), recreation and culture, and resource management
including land use planning and development control.
Theatre A place of assembly intended for the production and viewing of CD-C,
performing arts, and consisting of an auditorium and stage with provision CD-F4 (Sep 07)
for raising and suspending stage scenery above and clear of the working area.
Thermal resistance The resistance to heat flow of a given component of Code
a building element. It is equal to the air temperature difference (°C) needed
to produce unit heat flux (W/m2) through unit area (m2) under steady conditions.
The units are °Cm2/W.
Threshold A sill to an external door, or the floor under an internal door. CD-D1
Tile batten See purlin. Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Top plate A plate placed over the top end of studs. Simple House
Total thermal resistance The overall air-to-air thermal resistance across all CD-E3, CD-G5
components of a building element such as a wall, roof or floor.
(This includes the surface resistances which may vary with environmental
changes eg, temperature and humidity, but for most purposes can be regarded
as having standard values as given in NZS 4214.)
Total wall area, in relation to a building, means the sum (expressed in square Code
metres) of the following: Simple House
(a) the wall area of the building; and
(b) the area (expressed in square metres) of all vertical glazing in external walls
Amend 11
Sep 2010 of the building.

148b 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Town gas A manufactured gas. CD-G11

Toxic environment An environment that contains contaminants that can CD-G12
contaminate the water supply in concentrations greater than those included
in the New Zealand Drinking Water Standard 1995.
Trade means any trade, business, industry, profession, occupation, activity BA04
of commerce, or undertaking relating to—
(a) the supply or acquisition of goods or services; or
(b) the acquisition of household units or any interest in land.
Transverse flashing A roof flashing that runs across the roof slope, at right CD-E2
angles to the roof cladding profile.
Trap A chamber which is installed in the drain and incorporates features CD-E1
to intercept and retain floatable debris.
Trapezoidal A type of profiled metal cladding with symmetrical or asymmetrical CD-E2
crests, with troughs between the crests.
Travel distance The length of the escape route as a whole or the individual Code
lengths of its parts, namely:
(a) Open paths
(b) Protected paths and
(c) Safe paths.
Trickle ventilator A controllable ventilation opening through the external CD-G4
envelope to the outside to provide background ventilation.
Trimmer A member supporting the wall framing beneath, or over an opening Simple House
in a non-loadbearing wall and carrying wind loads to the trimmer studs.
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Trimmer stud A stud located on the side of an opening. Simple House
Trough profile A type of profiled metal cladding comprising vertical ribs with CD-E2
flat, or lightly profiled pans between the ribs. Also known as ribbed, secret
fixed or tray profile.

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
148c
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

U
Unisex facilities Facilities available for use by either sex. CD-G1

COMMENT:
Unisex facilities may also be described as both gender facilities.

Unitary authority has the meaning given to it by section 5(1) of the BA04/LGA
Local Government Act 2002.
Section 5(1) states:
‘“unitary authority” means a territorial authority that has the responsibilities,
duties, and powers of a regional council conferred on it under—
(a) the provisions of any Act; or
(b) an Order in Council giving effect to a reorganisation scheme”
Universal access Where elements and spaces are accessible to and usable Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010
by people of all ages and abilities to the greatest extent possible.
Unprotected area in relation to an external wall of a building means: Code
(a) Any part of the external wall which has less than the required FRR.
For example, a non fire rated window, door or other opening or sheet metal.
(b) Any part of the external wall which has combustible material more than
1.0mm thick attached to or applied to its external face, whether for cladding
or any other purpose.
uPVC flashings uPVC flashings shall be a minimum of 0.75 mm thick and: Simple House
(a) comply with the requirements of the following Clauses of AS/NZS 4256: Part 2:
ii) Clause 9.2 Impact resistance
iii) Clause 9.3 Tensile strength
iv) Clause 9.4 Colourfastness and impact resistance following ultraviolet
light exposure.
(b) where exposed to the weather, shall also comply with Section 8 of
AS/NZS 4256: Part 2.
(c) have a finish colour with a reflectance of 40% or more, when measured in
Amend 11
Sep 2010 accordance with ASTM C1549 or ASTM E903.

V
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Valley board A board laid to support a valley gutter. Simple House
Valley gutter A gutter running down the valley formed by the intersection CD-E2
of two pitched roof surfaces.
Valve vented storage water heater (unvented storage water heater) CD-G12
A storage water heater in which the required venting to the atmosphere
is controlled by a valve.
Vapour barrier Sheet material or coating having a low water-vapour CD-B2
transmission, and used to minimise water-vapour penetration in buildings.
(Vapour barriers are sometimes referred to as damp-proof membranes.)

148d 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

 D e f i n i tions new zealand building code handbook

Definition Source

Vent line A pipe or tube which conveys gas to a safe place outside the CD-G10
building from a gas pressure regulator relief valve.
Vent pipe A pipe for the purpose of protecting water seals that at its upper CD-G13
end is either open to the atmosphere or fitted with an air admittance valve
and that at its lower end is connected to a discharge pipe.
Verification Method means a method by which compliance with the BA04
Building Code may be verified.
VSG Visual stress graded, refers to verified timber that is initially sorted visually Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 in accordance with NZS 3603. See also MSG.

W
Wall area, in relation to a building, means the area (expressed in square Code
metres) of internally-exposed external walls, including any door openings,
of the building.

Wall bracing element A section of wall that performs a bracing function. Simple House
Wall underlay An absorbent synthetic wrap used as part of the wall cladding Simple House
system to assist the control of moisture by ensuring moisture which may
occasionally penetrate the wall cladding is directed back to the exterior
of the building.
The wall underlay shall have the properties in Table 23 of the Acceptable
Solution E2/AS1 for Building Code Clause E2 External Moisture:
(a) absorbency – no requirement
(b) vapour resistance 7 MN s/g or less
(c) water resistance of 20 mm or greater
(d) pH of extract of between 6.0 and 9.0
(e) shrinkage no more than 0.5%
Amend 11
Sep 2010 (f) mechanical edge tear and tensile strength to AS/NZS 4200.
Waste pipe A discharge pipe that conveys the discharge from waste water CD-G13
fixtures to a gully trap.
Waste water fixture A sanitary fixture or sanitary appliance used to receive CD-G13
wastes, and which is not a soil fixture.
Water heater A device for heating water. CD-B2, CD-G12
Water main A water supply pipe that is under the control, or maintained Code
by a network utility operator.
Waterproof and waterproofing The complete and total resistance of CD-E2
a building element to the ingress of any moisture.
Water seal The depth of water that can be retained in a water trap. CD-G2, CD-G13

D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G 30 September 2010
148e
 new zealand building code handbook Definitions

Definition Source

Water supply system Pipes, fittings and tanks used or intended to be used Code
for the storage and reticulation of water from a water main or other water
source to sanitary fixtures, sanitary appliances and fittings within a building.
Water tank (vessel) A covered fixed container for storing hot or cold water. CD-G12
Water trap A fitting designed to retain a depth of water that prevents foul air CD-G2, CD-G13
and gases escaping from the plumbing system or foul water drainage system
and entering a building.
Weathertightness and weathertight Terms used to describe the resistance CD-E2
of a building to the weather. Weathertightness is a state where water
is prevented from entering and accumulating behind the cladding in amounts
that can cause undue dampness or damage to the building elements.

COMMENT:
The term weathertightness is not necessarily the same as waterproof. However,
a weathertight building, even under severe weather conditions, is expected to limit moisture
ingress to inconsequential amounts, insufficient to cause undue dampness inside buildings
and damage to building elements. Moisture that may occasionally enter is able to harmlessly
escape or evaporate.

Weathertightness and weathertight Terms used to describe the resistance Simple House
of a building to the weather.
Wet area An area within a building supplied with water from a water supply Simple House
system including bathrooms and showers, laundries, sanitary compartments
Amend 11
Sep 2010 and kitchen areas.
Wetwall The exterior cladding on a wall with a drained cavity. CD-E2
Wharenui A communal meeting house having a large open floor area used CD-C, CD-H1
for both assembly and sleeping in the traditional Maori manner.
Wind zone Categorisation of wind force experienced on a particular site CD-E2
as determined in NZS 3604, Section 5.

COMMENT:
Maximum ultimate limit state speeds are:
Low wind zone = wind speed of 32 m/s
Medium wind zone = wind speed of 37 m/s
High wind zone = wind speed of 44 m/s
Very high wind zone = wind speed of 50 m/s.
Specific design is required for wind speeds greater than 50 m/s.

Wire dog Galvanised or stainless steel wire, D or Z shaped nail, spiked at Simple House
Amend 11
Sep 2010 each end. Used for fixing timber together to resist uplift
Working day means any day except— BA04
(a) Saturday, Sunday, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Anzac Day, the Sovereign’s
Birthday, Labour Day, and Waitangi Day; and
(b) the day observed in the appropriate area as the anniversary of the province
of which the area forms a part; and
(c) a day in the period beginning on 20 December in any year and ending with
the close of 10 January in the following year.

148f 30 September 2010 D E PA R T M E N T O F B U I L D I N G A N D H O U S I N G

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Index
(Revised by Amendment 6)
This is a complete index for the New Zealand Building Code and Compliance Documents.

A
Access
see Access Routes, and Mechanical Installations for Access

Access chambers
see Maintenance access to drains

Access points
see Maintenance access to drains

Access to a facility
food and work areas........................................................................ G1/AS1 3.2, Figure 10
lobbies............................................................................................................ G1/AS1 6.3.1
unisex facilities........................................................................................... G1/AS1 1.1.5 c)

Access Routes........................................................ D1/AS1 1.1.5, 1.2.2, 1.4.1, 1.5.1, 1.5.3 a),

1.5.4, 1.5.5, 1.6.1, 1.7.1, 1.8.1,
2.0, 5.1.3, Figure 27
see also Accessible routes, Activity space, Doors, Escape routes, Handrails, Height
clearances, Level access routes, Mechanical Installations for Access, a Person with
a disability, Ramps, Stairs, Obstructions, Vehicles, Wheelchairs
access to buildings............................................ NZBC/D1.1, D1.3.1 (a) (b), D1.3.3 (a) (b)
access within buildings.....................................NZBC/D1.1, D1.3.1 (c), D1.3.3 (c), D1.3.5
corridors........................................................................................NZBC/D1.3.1 (c), F6.3.1
level access routes............................................................................................ D1/AS1 2.0
protection from falling................................................................................ D1/AS1 2.3
slip resistance................................................................................ D1/AS1 2.1, Table 2
width............................................................................................................D1/AS1 2.2
location............................................................................................................... D1/AS1 1.1
principal entrance............................................................................................... D1/AS1 1.1
service and maintenance personnel............................................................. D1/AS1 11.0.3

Access to facilities................................................ NZBC/D1.3.3 (c), G1.3.5; G3/AS1 Figure 1

Accessible accommodation units.................................... D1/AS1 9.0, 9.1, 9.1.1, 9.2.1, Table 9

see also a Person with a disability
bedrooms.................................................................................................... D1/AS1 9.2.1 c)
dining areas................................................................................................. D1/AS1 9.2.1 c)
facilities..............................................................................................................D1/AS1 9.2
kitchens..............................................................D1/AS1 9.2.1 b) ; G3/AS1 1.5.2, Figure 1
laundry................................................................................................ G2/AS1 1.2, Figure 2
sitting areas................................................................................................. D1/AS1 9.2.1 c)
toilets and baths.......................................................................................... D1/AS1 9.2.1 a)

Accessible routes........................ NZBC/D1.3.3, D1.3.4; D1/AS1 1.1.1 to 1.1.3, 1.5.5 b), 2.1.1,
2.2.1, 7.0.1, 7.0.6, 11.0.1, Figure 27
access to performance areas............................................................................ D1/AS1 8.2

Accessible units..................................................................................................... D1/AS1 1.1.3

Activity space................................NZBC/D1.3.2 (a), D1.3.4 (b), G5.1 (b), G5.2.1 (b), G5.3.3

Aged, homes for

see Old people’s homes
Air
see also Ventilation
airflow control..................................................................... NZBC/H1.3.1 (b); H1/AS1 3.0
changes..........................................................................................................G4/VM1 1.0.1
ducts.......................................................................C/AS1 6.9.5, 6.19.14, 6.20.20, 6.20.21
purity................................................................................................................ G4/VM1 2.0

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

149
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Amend 11
Sep 2010 Air-handling systems........................................................................................ G4/AS1 1.5.1 b)

Airborne and Impact Sound............................................................................................... G6

impact insulation class (IIC)........................................................................... NZBC/G6.3.2
noise transmission between abutting occupancies............................... NZBC/G6.1, G6.2
sound insulation tests...................................................................................... G6/VM1 2.0
sound transmission class (STC)..............................................NZBC/G6.3.1; G6/VM1 1.0

Amend 11 Alerting devices................................................................... F7/AS1 1.1.5, 1.2.8, 2.1.2, 2.2.2 b)

Sep 2010 audible..................................................................................F7/AS1 1.2.5, 1.2.8, 2.1.2 c) f)
visual ....................................................................................................... F7/AS1 2.1.2 c) f)

Alerting the Fire Service......................................................... F7/AS1 1.2.2, 1.2.7, 2.1.2 a), 2.2

Alternative solutions
accessible routes............................................................................................. D1/AS1 11.0
Amend 11 bedding and backfilling drains......................................................................... E1/AS1 3.9.8
Sep 2010
laundry tubs.................................................................................................... G2/AS1 1.0.3
open vented storage water heaters..............................................................G12/AS1 6.9.1
solid waste storage..........................................................................................G15/AS1 3.1
storage water heaters
seismic restraint................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.11.4
thermal resistance.................................................................E3/AS1 1.1.5 (Comment)
unvented (valve vented) storage water heaters........................ G12/AS1 6.10.1, Figure 14
watertightness testing.....................................................................................G12/AS1 7.5

Ancillary Buildings............................................................. NZBC/A1 8.0, D1.2.1, D1.3.2 (h),

D1.3.3, G1.3.5, G8.2, G12.3.0
Apartments
see Housing, multi-unit dwellings

Appliances
see Sanitary appliances

Aprons.......................................................................................C/AS1 7.9.12, 7.9.13, Figure 7.2

Artificial Light................... G8; NZBC/H1.2 (c), H1.3.5; D1/AS1 1.5.4 (Comment), 1.8, 4.6;
adequate lighting............................................................................................... NZBC/G8.2
energy consumption..........................................................................................H1/AS1 6.0
minimum illuminance............ NZBC/G8.3; D1/AS1 4.6.1, Table 8, G8/AS1 1.0.1, Table 1
wattage required......................................... D1/AS1 4.6.1, Table 8; G8/AS1 1.0.1, Table 1

Asbestos
see Hazardous Building Materials

Assembly care buildings

see Communal non-residential buildings

Assembly service buildings

see Communal non-residential buildings

Automatic extinguishers.........................................................................................G11/AS1 6.0

150 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

B
Backflow prevention
see Protection of water supplies

Balconies.......................................C/AS1 3.14.6 b), 3.14.7, 3.15.7,7.8.7, Figures 3.18 and 3.22

Banks......................................................................................................... NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv)

see also Commercial buildings

Barges.......................................................E2/AS1 4.6.1.5, 9.6.8.2, 9.6.9.4, Figures 92 and 97

see also Gutters, barges and fascias

Barriers............................................NZBC/F4.3.1, F4.3.4, F4.3.5, F5.3.2, F5.3.4; D1/AS1 1.7;

F4/AS1 1.0; F5/AS1 1.0
see also Access Routes, Handrails, Safety from Falling,
Timber barriers
Amend 11 accessible route..............................................................................................D1/AS1 2.3.1
Sep 2010
Amend 11 construction................................................................................... F4/AS1 1.2, Figures 1-4
Sep 2010 construction site.............................................................................................. F4/AS1 1.2.6
fences........................................................................................................ F5/AS1 1.1, 1.1.2
around water hazards.................................................................................. F5/AS1 1.2
for specific hazards......................................................................................... F5/AS1 1.0.2
heights................................................................................................... F4/AS1 1.1, Table 1
hoardings......................................................................................... F5/AS1 1.1, 1.1.3, 1.1.5
viewing windows......................................................................................F5/AS1 1.1.4
parapet and rail barriers...................................................................F4/AS1 1.2.3, Figure 5
safety enclosures for ladders.......................................... D1/AS1 5.1.2, Figures 21 and 22
scaffolding....................................................................................................... F4/AS1 1.2.6
stair barriers............................................................................................... F4/AS1 Figure 4
toeboards........................................................................................................... F5/AS1 1.4
types of barriers.............................................................................................. F5/AS1 1.0.3

Basements........ C/AS1 3.3.2 i), 3.7.1, 3.15.2, 4.5.15, 6.9.3, 6.14.4, Figure 3.19; E2/AS1 12.0
drainage............................................................................................................ E2/AS1 12.3
requirements.......................................................................................... E2/AS1 12.3.1
damp-proof membrane.................................................................................... E2/AS1 12.2
DPM materials........................................................................................ E2/AS1 12.2.2
DPM requirements................................................................................. E2/AS1 12.2.1
see also Floors, basement floors

Basins........................................G1/AS1 3.3, Figure 9, Table 1; G13/AS1 3.3.2, 5.5.2, Table 2

Baths.................................................................................... G1/AS1 Table 2; G13/AS1 Table 2

Bedrooms
see Habitable spaces

Bidets............................................................................... G1/AS1 2.4; G13/AS1 5.5.2, Table 2

Boarding Houses
see Communal residential buildings

Boundary
see Notional boundary, Relevant boundaries

Bridges
see Ancillary buildings

Building construction
non-solid construction................................................. H1/VM1 1.1.2, H1/AS1 2.1.3, 2.1.4
solid construction......................................................... H1/VM1 1.1.2, H1/AS1 2.1.3, 2.1.4
thermal envelope........................................... H1/VM1 1.0, 1.1.2, H1/AS1 2.0, 2.1.3, 2.1.4
Amend 11 thermal resistance (R-value)............................................H1/VM1 1.1.2, 1.1.3, 1.2.1, 1.4.1,
Sep 2010 H1/AS1 2.1.3, 2.1.4, 2.2.1, 2.3.1, 2.3.2

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

151
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Building elements NZBC/B1.2, B1.3.1, B1.3.2, B1.3.3, B2.3, E2.3.2, E2.3.3,

E2.3.4, E2.3.5, E2.3.6, E3.2, E3.3.5, F3.3 (f),
G3.3.2 (b) (c), G6.2, G9.3.1 (a) (e); B1/VM4 1.0.1;
C/AS1 5.1.1, 5.2.1,5.6.1
see also Floors, Ceilings, Roofs
elements in contact with the ground..............................................................NZBC/E2.3.3
primary elements..................................................C/AS1 5.1.1, 5.3.1, 5.3.2 a), c), 5.6.1 a),
5.7.1, 5.7.4, 5.7.7, 5.7.8, 5.9, 6.14.3, 7.1.2 b),
7.8.10 b), 7.9.4, 7.9.5 a), 7.10.3, 7.10.4, C7.1.1
requiring noise control.................................................................... G6/AS1 1.0.2, Figure 1
secondary elements...................................................C/AS1 5.1.1, 5.3.1, 5.3.2 b), 5.6.1 a),
5.7.1, 5.7.8, 7.1.2 b), 7.10.3, C7.1.1
unrated primary.............................................................................. C/AS1 5.9.4, Figure 5.2

Building height.......................................................................... C/AS1 5.7.6 c), 7.11.3 a), 7.11.4

Amend 11 Building performance index

Sep 2010 see Energy efficiency provisions

Building site..............................................................E1/VM1 3.2.2, 4.0.1, 4.1.10, E1/AS1 1.0.1

evaluation....................................................................................................... E1/VM1 1.0.3

Buildings
air-supported structures...............................................................................C/AS1 6.20.18
atriums...............................................................................................................C/AS1 6.22
building elements...........................................................................................B1/VM4 2.0.3
building separation....................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3 (o)
car parking.....................................C/AS1 6.8.4, 6.10.3 to 6.10.6, 7.8.2, 7.9.16, Figure 6.2
carports........................................................................................C/AS1 7.8.10 (Comment)
commercial........................................H1/VM1 1.0, 1.0.2, H1/AS1 1.0.1, 1.0.3, 1.0.4, 6.1.1
communal non-residential.................................... H1/VM1 1.0, H1/AS1 1.0.1, 1.0.4, 6.1.1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 communal residential................................................................H1/VM1 1.0, H1/AS1 1.0.1
dwellings
attached and multi-unit....................................................................C/AS1 1.3.5, 1.3.6
Amend 11 detached.....................................................................................................C/AS1 1.3.3
Sep 2010 earth buildings.........................................................B1/VM1 8.0, B1/AS1 4.0, E2/AS2 1.0
Amend 11 education.............................................................................................. C/AS1 3.8.4, 6.20.7
Sep 2010
grandstands..................................................................................................... C/AS1 3.16.7
hospitals............................................................................................................C/AS1 6.6.6
hotels, motels and accommodation.................................................................C/AS1 2.2.3
housing........................................................................... H1/VM1 1.0, 1.1, H1/AS1 1.0, 2.0
detached dwellings....................................................................... H1/VM1 1.1.3, 1.2.1
group dwellings....................................................................................... H1/VM1 1.1.3
multi-unit dwellings............................................... H1/VM1 1.1.3, 1.2.1, H1/AS1 2.1.2
Amend 11 wharenui.................................................................................................. H1/VM1 1.1.3
Sep 2010 industrial............................................................ H1/VM1 1.0.1, 1.0.2, H1/AS1 1.0.2, 1.0.3
intended life
see Durability
intended use
Amend 11 see Intended use
Sep 2010 large buildings.............................................H1/VM1 1.0.1, 1.3, H1/AS1 1.0.2, 2.2.1, 4.0.1
Amend 11 masonry buildings............................................................................................B1/AS3 1.1.1
Sep 2010 membrane structures............................. NZBC/C4.1.1; C/AS1 6.20.17 to 6.20.19, C3.1.1
minimum floor level................................................................ E1/AS1 2.0, Figures 1 and 2
multi-storey buildings............................................................................C/AS1 2.2.5, 6.12.2
open air auditoriums........................................................................................ C/AS1 3.16.5
open sided buildings...................................................... C/AS1 7.8.8 to 7.8.10, Figure 7.10
Amend 11 purpose group classification............................................................... C/AS1 2.2, Table 2.1
Sep 2010 reference buildings............................................. H1/VM1 1.1.2, 1.1.3, H1/AS1 2.1.3, 2.1.4
remaining occupied during fire.........................................................................C/AS1 5.6.9
residential community care..................................................................................C/AS1 2.4
seasonal use buildings.................................................................................F7/AS1 1.1.2 c)
single-floor buildings................................................................................F7/AS1 1.1.2 a) b)

152 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Buildings (continued)
siteworks
Amend 11 see Structure
Sep 2010 small buildings..............................................H1/VM1 1.0.1, 1.1.1, H1/AS1 1.0.2, 2.1, 4.0.1
taverns...............................................................................................................C/AS1 2.2.3
theatres............................................................................. C/AS1 6.3.1, 6.19.9, Figure 6.13
three-floor buildings.....................................................................................F7/AS1 1.1.2 b)
three storey buildings...............................................................................G13/AS1 Figure 7
timber framed buildings...................................................................................B1/AS3 1.1.1
Amend 11 two-floor buildings...................................................................................F7/AS1 1.1.2 a) b)
Sep 2010 wharenui......................................................C/AS1 3.3.2 h), 3.4.2 e), 6.7.9, H1/VM1 1.1.3

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

153
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

C
Call points................................................................................................................F7/AS1 1.1.4

Camping grounds............ NZBC/G2.2, G2.3.4; G1/AS1 3.4.2, Tables 1 to 3; G2/AS1 Table 1

see also Communal residential buildings
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Car park ventilation............................................................................................... G4/AS1 1.5.4

Car parking buildings

see Commercial buildings, Vehicles

Carports
see Outbuildings

Catchment
characteristics.......................................................... E1/VM1 1.0.2 a), 2.0.1, 2.1, 2.3, 4.2.1

Ceilings............................................................................... NZBC/G6.3.1; G3/AS1 2.1.2, 2.2.3

floor/ceiling assemblies............................................................................ G6/AS1 Figure 3

Centres for people with disabilities

see Communal non-residential buildings

Child care centres

see Early childhood centres and Communal non-residential Buildings
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Children.............................................NZBC/D1.3.3 (h), F4.3.3, F4.3.4 (f),F4.3.5 (a), F5.2 (d),
F5.3.3, G15.3.2 (g); B1/AS2 1.0.2; D1/AS1 4.1.8 a);
F4/AS1 1.2.1, Figures 1-4; F5/AS1 1.0.2
See also Early childhood centres

Chimneys............................ B1/AS1 1.2, 8.0, B1/AS3 2.1; C/AS1 9.5, Figure 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3
bracing units.....................................................................B1/AS3 1.9, 1.9.3, 1.9.6, Table 2
brick chimneys...................................................B1/AS3 1.1.1, 1.1.3 a) b), 1.2.1 a),1.6.2 a),
1.7.1, 1.7.6, 1.8.1, 1.8.5 a), Figures 2 to 4 and 7, Table 1
cantilever height.............................................................................................. B1/AS3 1.1.2
chimney bases.................................................................... B1/AS3 1.1.3 a), 1.6.1, 1.9.4 b)
chimney breasts................................................................................... B1/AS3 1.5, Table 1
chimney depth................................................................................................. B1/AS3 1.1.3
chimney height................................................................................................ B1/AS3 1.1.2
chimney liners................................................................................................. B1/AS3 1.1.4
Amend 11 chimney lintels............................................................................................ B1/AS3 Table 1
Sep 2010 chimney materials.............................................................................................. B1/AS3 1.8
chimney stacks..................................................................................... B1/AS3 1.1.2, 1.6.1
chimney wall thickness............................................................................ B1/AS3 1.2, 1.2.1
chimney width................................................................................................. B1/AS3 1.1.3
concrete chimneys................................... B1/AS3 1.1.1, 1.1.3 a) c), 1.2.1 b) c), 1.6.2 a) b),
1.7.1, 1.7.13, 1.8.2, 1.8.5 b), Figures 4 and 5, Table 1
concrete masonry...........................................................................................B1/AS3 1.8.4
floor brackets.......................................... B1/AS3 1.7.1, 1.7.3 to 1.7.5, 1.9.4 b) c), Figure 6
foundations.......................................................................B1/AS3 1.1.2, 1.1.3 a), 1.3, 1.3.1,
1.3.2, 1.3.3, 1.7.4, 1.7.5, 1.8.4, Figure 1
foundation slabs..........................................................B1/AS3 1.1.2, 1.3.2, 1.7.4, 1.7.5
gathers........................................................................................ B1/AS3 1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.7.5
hearths......................................................................... B1/AS3 1.4, 2.2, 2.2.1, 2.2.2, 2.2.3
hearth slabs.................................................................. B1/AS3 2.2, 2.2.1, 2.2.2, 2.2.3
packers...............................................................................................B1/AS3 1.7.2, 1.7.6 c)
precast pumice concrete chimneys......................................... B1/AS3 1.1.1 b), 1.1.3 a) c),
1.2.1 c), 1.6.2 b), 1.7.1,1.7.13, 1.8.3,
1.8.5 c), Figures 5 and 7, Table 1
compressive strength..........................................................................B1/AS3 1.8.3 c)
construction of.........................................................................................B1/AS3 1.8.3
restraint............................................................... B1/AS3 1.7, 1.7.1, 1.7.13, Figures 6 and 7
roof brackets................................................................. B1/AS3 1.7.1, 1.7.3, 1.7.4, Figure 6
roof ties........................................................................................................... B1/AS3 1.7.5
structural diaphragms.....................................................................................B1/AS3 1.9.5
wall ties........................................................................................ B1/AS3 1.7.5, 1.7.7, 1.7.8
closely spaced wall ties.............................................................. B1/AS3 1.7.5, 1.9.4 c)

154 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Churches
see Communal non-residential buildings

Cinemas................................................................................................................ NZBC/G5.3.5
see also Communal non-residential buildings

Cladding finish colours.............................................................................................. E2/AS1 2.4

Classified uses............................................................................................................. NZBC/A1

Cleaners’ sinks................................................................................................. G13/AS1 Table 2

Clubrooms
see Communal non-residential buildings

Cold water expansion valves (explosion control valves).......... G12/AS1 6.3.3 a), 6.6.2, 6.6.3,
Figures 8 to 10, Table 6
installation.................................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.6.5
relief valve drains....................................................... G12/AS1 6.7, Figures 8 to 10 and 13

Colleges
see Communal non-residential buildings

Commercial buildings........ NZBC/A1 5.0, E3.3.1, G3.2.1, G3.3.1 (a) (b), G3.3.2 (b), G3.3.6,
G5.2.1 (c), G5.3.4, G8.2, G9.3.4,H1.2 (c);
G3/AS1 2.0.1; H1/AS1 1.0
Communal non-residential buildings........................................... NZBC/A1 4.0, E1.3.2, E3.3.1,
G5.2.1 (c), G5.3.4, G5.3.5, G8.2,
G9.3.4, H1.2 (c); H1/AS1 1.0.3, 1.0.4
Amend 11 assembly care..............................................................................................NZBC/A1 4.0.3
Sep 2010 assembly service......................................................................... NZBC/A1 4.0.2, H1.2 (a)
halls................................................................................................................ NZBC/G5.3.5
places of assembly..................................................................................... D1/AS1 8.0

Communal residential buildings................... NZBC/A1 3.0, G5.2.1 (c), G5.3.4, G8.2, G9.3.4;
D1/AS1 9.0, 9.1.1; H1/AS1 1.0.1
community care...........................................................................................NZBC/A1 4.0.2
community service......................................................................................NZBC/A1 3.0.2

Communes
see Housing, group dwellings

Community care buildings

see Communal residential buildings

Community service buildings............................................................................... D1/AS1 1.1.3

see also Communal residential buildings

Computer centres
see Commercial buildings

Concealed spaces.....................................................................................C/AS1 6.18.1, 6.18.10

cavity barriers....................................................................... C/AS1 6.18.1, 6.18.4 to 6.18.6
ceiling space firecells...................................................................................... C/AS1 6.12.8
ceiling space restrictions............................................................... C/AS1 6.18.7 to 6.18.10
in walls and floors........................................................................................... C/AS1 6.18.4
within firecells.................................................................C/AS1 6.18.2, 6.18.3, Figure 6.10
see also External Moisture, Internal Moisture

Concealed works............................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.2.1 b)

Concrete.................................................................................................................... B2/AS1 3.1

see also Design, concrete

Condensation
see Internal Moisture

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

155
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Construction moisture............................................................................................ E2/AS1 11.0

maximum acceptable moisture contents........................................................ E2/AS1 11.2
measuring moisture content............................................................................ E2/AS1 11.3
concrete floors....................................................................................... E2/AS1 11.3.2
timber......................................................................................................E2/AS1 11.3.1
moisture in materials.........................................................................................E2/AS1 11.1

Construction site barriers...................................................................................... F4/AS1 1.2.6

Construction and Demolition Hazards............................................................................... F5

areas accessible to the public.........................................................................NZBC/F5.3.2
barriers............................................................................................... NZBC/F5.3.2, F5.3.4
demolition sites.................................................................................................. F5/AS1 1.0
entry of children...................................................... NZBC/F5.2 (d), F5.3.3; F5/AS1 1.0.2
falling objects............................................................................. NZBC/F5.2 (a) (b), F5.3.1
lifting equipment.............................................................................................NZBC/F5.3.4
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Contaminants........................................................................................... G14/VM1 1.6, Table 1
see also Hazardous agents on site, contaminants
Amend 11
Sep 2010

Control panel..................................................................................F7/AS1 1.1.5, 1.2.2, 2.2.2 b)

Amend 11
Sep 2010

Corridors.............................................................................................. C/AS1 6.13.1, Figure 6.5

see also Access Routes

Corrosives
see Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 8

Creep
see Structure, loads

Cross connections
see Protection of water supplies

Cyclic loads
see Structure, loads

156 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

D
Dampness
see External Moisture, Internal Moisture

Dams
see Ancillary buildings

Dangerous goods
see also Hazardous Building Materials, Hazardous Substances and Processes

Day care institution

see Early childhood centres, Communal non-residential buildings

Dead ends
see Escape routes

Decks and pergolas..................................................................................... E2/AS1 7.0, 9.1.3.6

see also Membrane roofs and decks
see also Enclosed Balustrades
attachment to building structure....................................................................... E2/AS1 7.2
pergolas................................................................................... E2/AS1 7.2.2, Figure 15
slatted timber decks to walls.................................................. E2/AS1 7.2.1, Figure 15
cantilevered decks...........................................................E2/AS1 7.2.1.1, Figure 16
level thresholds...............................................................E2/AS1 7.3, Figures 17A and 17B
enclosed decks...................................................................... E2/AS1 7.3.1, Figure 17A
ground floor level access......................................................E2/AS1 7.3.2, Figure 17B
concrete slab............................................... E2/AS1 Paragraph 7.3.2.1, Figure 17B
timber floor.................................................. E2/AS1 Paragraph 7.3.2.2, Figure 17B
removable surfaces................................................................. E2/AS1 7.3.1, Figure 16
timber option.................................................................................... E2/AS1 7.3.1.2
thresholds for decks...........................................................................E2/AS1 7.1, Figure 14
enclosed decks..........................................................................................E2/AS1 7.1.2
slatted decks.............................................................. E2/AS1 7.1.1, Figures 15 and 16

Deflections
see Structure

Demolition
see Construction and Demolition Hazards

Dental surgeries........................................................................................ NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv)

see also Commercial buildings

Amend 11 Design
Sep 2010 aluminium..................................................................................... B1/VM1 7.0, B1/AS1 2.0
Amend 11 concrete............................................................................................................B1/VM1 3.0
Sep 2010 concrete masonry.................................................................... B1/VM1 4.0, B1/AS3 1.3.3
drains
Amend 11 see Drains
Sep 2010 earth building.....................................................................................................B1/VM1 8.0
foundations
see Foundations
loadings............................................................................................................. B1/VM1 2.0
earthquake............................................................... B1/VM1 4.0, B1/AS3 1.9, Table 2
limit state............................................................................................. B1/VM1 2.0, 7.1
Amend 11
Sep 2010
siteworks......................................................................................................... B1/VM1 10.0
steel...................................................................................................................B1/VM1 5.0
Amend 11 strength reduction factor..................................... B1/VM4 2.0.1, 3.5.1, 4.7, Tables 1 and 4
Sep 2010 structural design action standards . ................................................................. B1/VM1 2.0
timber...........................................................................................B1/VM1 6.0, B1/AS1 3.0
see also Timber barriers
windows
see Windows

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

157
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Design loads
see Structure, loads

Detached dwellings
see Housing

Differential movement
see Structure, loads

Disabled persons
see a Person with a disability

Discharge pipes............................. G3/AS1 1.1.5; G13/AS1 4.5.1, 4.5.2, 4.6, 5.1.1, 5.5, 5.7.3,
Figures 6 and 11, Table 4
branch discharge pipes............................................................................G13/AS1 Figure 7
diameters..........................................G13/AS1 3.3.2, 4.3, 5.3, Table 6, G13/AS2 3.6, 4.2
fixture discharge pipes....................................... G13/AS1 Figures 7 and 8, Tables 2 and 4
gradient...............................................................G13/AS1 4.4, 5.4, G13/AS2 3.5, Table 2
waste pipes
combined waste pipes......................................................................G13/AS1 Figure 5
developed lengths.............................................................G13/AS1 Figures 5, 6 and 8

Discharge stacks....................................................................... G13/AS1 4.2.2 a), 4.5.1 b), 4.7,

5.3.1, 5.6, Figures 7 to 9, Tables 3, 4 and 6
see also Discharge pipes, Pipes
discharge stack vents.............................G13/AS1 4.7.1 b), 5.2.1 b), 5.3.1, 5.6.1, 5.6.3 b),
Figures 7 and 8, Table 6, G13/AS2 4.1.5, Figure 5

Discharge units.................................................................. G13/AS1 Table 2, G13/AS2 Table 2

Dishwashing machine................................................................... G13/AS1 3.3.2 a) e), Table 2

Domestic buildings
see Housing

Doors
see also Windows and doors
NZBC/D1.3.4 (f), D1.3.1 (c),D1.3.3 (n), D1.3.4 (f), D2.3.5 (c),
F5.3.2 (d); C/AS1 3.9.1, 3.11.6, 6.19.4; D1/AS1 7.0,
Figure 27;
acceptable obstructions....................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.6
accessible doors................................................................................D1/AS1 7.0.3 to 7.0.5
accessible escape routes..................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.7
automatic sliding doors....................................................................................C/AS1 3.17.7
closers and latching.........................................................................................C/AS1 3.17.1
degree and width of opening...............................................................C/AS1 3.17.4, 3.17.5
delayed action unlocking devices.................................................................. C/AS1 3.17.11
direction of opening.............................................................................C/AS1 3.17.3, 3.17.4
door swings.................................................................. C/AS1 3.4.5 b), 3.13.2, 3.17.5 d) e)
Amend 11 fire doors C/AS1 3.3.1 b), 3.6.1 c), 3.11.9, 3.17.9, 3.17.13, 6.19.2 a),
Sep 2010 C7.1, Figures 3.29 to 3.31, Table 6.1;
frameless glass doors.................................................................................... D1/AS1 7.0.7
glazing........................................................C/AS1 5.8.10, 5.8.11; D1/AS1 7.0.4, Figure 28
handles............................................................................................................ D1/AS1 7.0.5
hold-open devices..........................................C/AS1 3.17.1 b), 3.17.9, F7/AS1 1.3.6, 1.5.2
lift landing doors........................................................... C/AS1 6.16.5 b), 6.19.13, Table 6.1
lobby doors...................................................................................................... D1/AS1 7.0.1
locking devices.................................................................................... C/AS1 3.17.2, 3.18.6
markings.............................................................................................. C/AS1 6.19.6, 6.19.7
panic bolts......................................................................................................C/AS1 3.17.14
revolving doors, automatic doors and
access control systems................................................................ C/AS1 3.17.7, 3.17.8,
Figure 3.26; D1/AS1 7.0.6, Figure 29
Amend 11 signs................................................................................................................C/AS1 3.20.1
Sep 2010 smoke control doors.................................... C/AS1 3.17.9, 3.17.12, 6.9.11, 6.19.2 b), C7.1,
Figures 3.27, 3.28 and 6.1, Table 6.1

158 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Doors (continued)
subdividing escape routes................................................................................. C/AS1 3.17
turnstiles......................................................................................................... D1/AS1 7.0.6
visibility............................................................................................................ D1/AS1 7.0.4
vision panels........................................................................................ C/AS1 3.17.6, 5.8.10
width................................................................................................................ D1/AS1 7.0.3

Downlights..................................................................................................................C/AS1 9.4

Downpipes..........................................................................E1/AS1 3.4.2 a) b), 3.7.8, 4.0, 5.1.1

installation.......................................................................................................... E1/AS1 4.3
materials................................................................................................ E1/AS1 4.1, Table 4
sizing......................................................................................................E1/AS1 4.2, Table 5

Drainage system.............................................................. G13/AS1 5.1.2, 5.5.2, 5.7.3, 5.7.4 b),

G13/AS2 1.0.2, 3.1.1, 3.3.2, 4.1.1, 5.10.1
Drains................................................................................ NZBC/G13.2, G13.3.1 (a), G13.3.2,
G13.3.3, G15.3.3; B1/VM1 11.0,
B1/AS1 6.0; G13/AS1 4.2.2 d), G13/AS2 1.0
access points........................................................................ E1/AS1 3.7, 3.7.3, 3.7.7, 3.7.8
access chambers..........E1/VM1 5.0.1, E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 b), 3.7.4, 3.7.5, Figure 12
inspection chambers..............................E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 b), 3.7.4, 3.7.5, Figure 11
inspection points.........................................................................E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 b)
rodding points.............................................................E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 a), Figure 10
alignment................................................................... E1/AS1 3.3, 3.7.3 a), Figures 4 and 5
see also Drain, layout
bedding and backfilling...........................E1/AS1 3.9, 3.9.2, Figure 13; G13/AS2 Figure 7
alternative solutions................................................................................. E1/AS1 3.9.8
materials.....................................................................E1/AS1 3.9.5; G13/AS2 Table 1
placing and compacting................................................... E1/AS1 3.9.6; G13/AS2 5.5
proximity to buildings............................................................. E1/AS1 3.9.7, Figure 14;
trench slope.............................................................................................. E1/AS1 3.9.3
trench width............................................................................................. E1/AS1 3.9.4
bends................................................................................................................G13/AS2 3.1
bubble-up chamber system................................................. E1/AS1 3.4.2, Figures 6 and 7
connections................................................................................... G13/AS2 3.2.1, Figure 1
construction..................................................................................... G13/AS2 5.2, Figure 7
diameter
see Drains, sizing
disused drains................................................................................................G13/AS2 5.10
downstream water systems............................................................................. E1/VM1 4.3
drain vent pipes..........................................................................G13/AS2 Figure 3, Table 3
drains under buildings........................................................................ E1/AS1 3.7.6 to 3.7.8
gradient.........................E1/AS1 3.3.1, 3.7.3 b) ; G13/AS1 Table 5, G13/AS2 3.5, Table 2
minimum gradient..........................................................................E1/AS1 3.4, Table 2
installation................................................................................................ G13/AS2 5.0, 5.5
joints.............................................................................. E1/AS1 3.5, Table 3; G13/AS2 5.1
junctions.......................................................................................................... G13/AS2 3.2
layout...................................................................... E1/AS1 3.3.1, 3.7.3 a), Figures 4 and 5
leakage tests................................................................................ E1/VM1 8.0, E1/AS1 3.8
high pressure air test.................................................................................. E1/VM1 8.3
low pressure air test................................................................................... E1/VM1 8.2
water test.............................................................................................. E1/VM1 8.1
maintenance access
see Maintenance access to drains
materials...........................................................E1/AS1 3.1, Table 1; G13/AS2 2.0, Table 1
open water, upstream of site............................................................................ E1/VM1 4.2
pipe water, upstream of site...................................................................... E1/VM1 4.1
quantity...................................................................................................E1/VM1 4.1.10
tailwater depth...............................................................................E1/VM1 4.1.6, 4.1.7
proximity to buildings....................................................................... G13/AS2 5.6, Figure 8
secondary flow............................................................ E1/VM1 4.0, 4.1.11 E1/AS1 1.0.1 d)
downstream drainage................................................................................ E1/VM1 4.3
headwater depth.............. E1/VM1 4.1.4, 4.1.5, 4.1.8, 4.1.9, Figures 5 to 7, 10 and 11

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

159
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Drains (continued)
site – outfall protection..................................................................................... E1/VM1 7.0
sizing........................................ E1/VM1 3.0, E1/AS1 3.2, Figure 3; G13/AS2 3.6, Table 2
energy losses............................................................................................. E1/VM1 5.0
hydraulic design of drains......................................E1/VM1 1.0.4, 3.2, Figures 6 and 7
air entrainment...................................................................................E1/VM1 3.2.4
headwater depth.............................................................E1/VM1 3.2.2, Figure 5 a)
minimum size........................................................................................ E1/VM1 3.1
minimum velocity.................................................................................. E1/VM1 6.0
pipe size decrease...................................................................................E1/VM1 5.0.2
soak pits........................................................................................... E1/VM1 9.0, Figure 13
sumps......................................................................... E1/AS1 3.6.1, 3.6.2, Figures 8 and 9
surface water inlets............................................................................................ E1/AS1 3.6
under buildings................................................ E1/AS1 3.7.6; G13/AS2 5.8, 5.9, Figure 13
upstream water systems........................................................................... E1/VM1 4.1, 4.2
ventilation.................................................................. G13/AS2 4.0, Figures 4 to 6, Table 3
watertightness.............................................................................................. G13/AS2 6.1.1

Draught diverters.................................................................................................. G4/AS1 2.3.2

Drinking fountains............................................................................................ G13/AS1 Table 2

Durability.....................................................................B2; B2/VM1 1.0, B2/AS1 1.2, Figure 1

code compliance certificate.............................................................................. NZBC/B2.3
ease of access and replacement.................................................................... B2/AS1 1.2.1
evaluation..................................................................... B2/VM1 1.0, B2/AS1 1.2, Figure 1
examples of requirement............................................................B2/AS1 1.3.1, Table 1
generic materials.........................................................................................B2/AS1 3.0
in service history........................................................................................ B2/VM1 1.1
laboratory testing.......................................................................................B2/VM1 1.2
similar materials.........................................................................................B2/VM1 1.3
intended life.................................................................................. NZBC/B1.3.1, B2.1, B2.3
5 year durability.................................................................................... B2/AS1 Table 1
15 year durability.................................................................................. B2/AS1 Table 1
50 year durability.................................................................................. B2/AS1 Table 1
maintenance.......................................................................................................B2/AS1 2.0
normal.......................................................................................................... B2/AS1 2.1
scheduled....................................................................................................B2/AS1 2.2
specified intended life....................................................................................... NZBC/B2.3
timber.................................................................................................................B2/AS1 3.2

Dynamic loads
see Structure, loads

160 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

E
Early childhood centres.............................. NZBC/G2.2, G3.2.1, G3.3.1 (a) to (d),G5.2.1 (a),
G5.3.1, G5.3.2, G7.2, G12.3.4; G2/AS1 Table 1;
G3/AS1 1.0.1; G5/AS1 1.0.3
see also Communal non-residential buildings
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Earth buildings.....................................................................................B2/AS1 3.4, E2/AS2 1.0

Earth pressure
see Structure, loads

Earth retaining structures.....................................................................................B1/VM4 2.0.3

Earthquakes
Amend 11 see Structure, loads
Sep 2010

Ease of access and replacement........................................................................... B2/AS1 1.2.1

Effluents.......................................................................................................... B1/VM4 A1.2.1 f)

EIFS........................................................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.9

coating.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.6
decorative mouldings............................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.6.4
finish coats............................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.6.3
reinforcing.............................................................................................. E2/AS1 9.9.6.1
reinforcing base coat.............................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.6.2
EIFS/floor slab junction................................................................ E2/AS1 9.9.7, Figure 125
general.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.2
installation....................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.9.4, Table 23
fixing blocks...........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.4.4
fixings.................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.9.4.1, Table 24
joints.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.4.2
movement control joints................................................... E2/AS1 9.9.4.3, Figure 124
insulation.........................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.5
battens................................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.9.5.1
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.9.1
materials..........................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.3
fibreglass reinforcing mesh...................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.3.2
polystyrene sheet..................................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.3.1
parapets and enclosed balustrades.............................................................. E2/AS1 9.9.10
EIFS topped enclosed balustrades..................................E2/AS1 9.9.10.2, Figure 129
metal cappings..............................................E2/AS1 9.9.10.1, Figures 12, 13 and 130
pipes and service penetrations....................................................E2/AS1 9.9.8, Figure 126
windows and doors...................................................... E2/AS1 9.9.9, Figures 127 and 128

Electrical codes of practice.......................................................... G9/VM1 1.0.1, G9/AS1 1.0.1

Electricity.............................................................................................................................. G9
electrical installations..........................NZBC/G9.1, G9.2, G9.3.1 to G9.3.3; G9/VM1 1.0
domestic cooking and refrigeration.........................................................G3/AS1 1.4.1
laundries...................................................................................................G2/AS1 1.1.2
electromechanical stress......................................................................... NZBC/G9.3.1 (d)
essential services........................................................................................... NZBC/G9.3.2
external supply system.................................................................................. NZBC/G9.3.3
a person with a disabilitiy............................................................................... NZBC/G9.3.4
light switches.................................................................................. G9/AS1 2.0.1 a) b)
socket outlets.......................................................................................G9/AS1 2.0.1 c)
temperature.........................................................................................NZBC/G9.3.1 (c) (d)

Emergency lighting
see Lighting for Emergency

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

161
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Enclosed balustrades................................................... E2/AS1 7.4, 9.3.9, 9.4.8, 9.5.5,9.6.9.8,

9.7.8, 9.8.7, 9.9.10, Figures 101 and 102
balustrade-to-deck floor junction..................................... E2/AS1 7.4.3, Figures 18 and 62
balustrade-to-wall junctions.................................................... E2/AS1 7.4.2, Figures 11-13
deck drainage.................................................................................................. E2/AS1 7.4.1
EIFS-topped............................................................................E2/AS1 9.9.10.2, Figure 129
flush-finished topped balustrades.............................................E2/AS1 9.7.8.1, Figure 117
metal cappings....................................................................E2/AS1 7.4.4, Table 7, Figure 5
balustrades for housing..................................................E2/AS1 7.4.4.1, Figures 11-13
balustrades – other than housing.................................. E2/AS1 7.4.4.2, Figures 11-13
stanchions...................................................................................... E2/AS1 7.4.5, Figure 19
stucco topped balustrades........................................................ E2/AS1 9.3.9.1, Figure 117

Enclosing rectangles.................................................................................. C/AS1 7.3.6, 7.5, 7.6

building on sloping sites and
buildings of irregular height.......................................... C/AS1 7.5.9, 7.5.10, Figure 7.7
exceptions for SH, SR and SA buildings............................... C/AS1 7.5.7, 7.5.8, Figure 7.7
Method 2.............................................................................. C/AS1 7.3.4 a), 7.3.6 to 7.3.8,
7.3.12, 7.5, Figures 7.5 to 7.7, Table 7.2
Method 3......................................................... C/AS1 7.3.4 b), .3.8, 7.3.12, 7.6, Figure 7.8
Method 4..................................... C/AS1 7.3.4 c), 7.3.9, 7.7, Figure 7.9, Tables 7.3 and 7.4

Energy cut-offs..................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.4.1 c), 6.5.2

Energy Efficiency..........................................................................................H1; E3/AS1 1.1.5;

building performance index (BPI)............................................ NZBC/H1.3.2; H1/VM1 1.2
heat gain......................................................................... NZBC/H1.3.3 (d) (f); H1/AS1 4.0
heat loss......................................................................................................... NZBC/H1.3.4
heating............................................................................................................ NZBC/H1.3.2
indoor temperature and humidity................................................... NZBC/H1.2 (a), H1.3.1

Energy efficiency provisions

airflow control....................................................................................................H1/AS1 3.0
artificial lighting............................................................ H1/VM1 1.3.1, H1/AS1 1.0.4, 6.1.1
building performance index ................................................................... H1/VM1 1.2, 1.2.1
Amend 11 hot water systems.......................................................................................... H1/AS1 5.0.1
Sep 2010 internal moisture ................................................................... H1/VM1 1.2.1, H1/AS1 2.1.4
solar heat gain....................................................................................................H1/AS1 4.0

Entrances
principal............................................................................................................D1/AS1 1.1.1

Environment
see Interior Environment

Escalators
see Mechanical Installations for Access

Escape height...............................................C/AS1 2.2.9 a), 3.3.4, 3.15.3 a), 3.15.6,3.15.7 a),

3.18.1, 4.5.10 b), 5.3.3 c), 7.10.3 Comment
7.9.10, Figure 3.20, Table 4.1
Escape routes.................... NZBC/F6.2, F6.3.2, F8.2 (a), F8.3.3 (a); C/AS1 3.1 to 3.4, 3.6.1,
3.7.1, 3.9.12 to 3.9.14, 3.11.4, 3.17.3, 3.17.5, 4.5.7,
Figures 3.1 to 3.5, Tables 3.1 and 3.2;
D1/AS1 1.1.5; F8/AS1 3.0
see also Means of Escape
accessible.......................................................................................... C/AS1 3.3.7, 3.17.5 a)
doors subdividing escape routes....................................................................... C/AS1 3.17
exitways......................................C/AS1 3.3.2 a), 3.11, 3.12, 6.9.1, 6.16.7, A2.1.1 Type 16,
Figures 3.3 and 3.20, Tables 2.1, 6.1 to 6.3
external exitways...................................................C/AS1 3.16.4, 5.6.3 c), 7.9.1, 7.9.3
lighting...................................................................................................... C/AS1 3.19.1
lighting for emergency
see Fire safety precautions
pressurisation
see Fire safety precautions

162 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Escape routes; exitways (continued)

split level exitways.............................................................. C/AS1 3.15.8, Figure 3.24
ventilation of enclosed exitways................................................ C/AS1 6.9.6 to 6.9.10
external............................................................................................................... C/AS1 3.14
handrails..................................................................C/AS1 3.3.3, 3.3.6 b), 3.9.8, 6.20.4 c)
height and width of escape routes......................................................................C/AS1 3.3
height..........................................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.1
width........................................ C/AS1 3.3.2 to 3.3.5, 3.9.4 to 3.9.6, 3.9.12 e), 3.17.5,
Figures 3.3, 3.4 and 3.6, Tables 3.2 and 3.4
length of escape routes........................................................C/AS1 3.4, 3.5, 3.11.7, 6.13.1,
Amend 11 Figures 3.7, 3.9 and 3.10, Table 3.3
Sep 2010 measurement of travel distance.......................................................... F6/AS1 Appendix D
number of escape routes..................................................C/AS1 3.2, Figure 3.2, Table 3.1
obstructions....................................................... C/AS1 3.3.6, 3.4.2 c), 3.17.5 a) e), 3.18.3
access control systems.............................................................................C/AS1 3.17.7
chains..........................................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.6
crowd control barriers................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.6
sliding bars.................................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.6
turnstiles.....................................................................................................C/AS1 3.3.6
open paths............................................................C/AS1 2.2.8, 3.1.2, 3.1.3, 3.1.5, 3.3.2 f),
3.3.7, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.8, 3.9, 3.17.3 a),
3.17.5 a), A2.1.1 Type 16, Figures 3.1, 3.7,
3.9, 3.12 and 3.16, Table 3.3
dead end open paths...................................................... C/AS1 1.3.4 Step 2, 3.3.2 b),
3.4.2, 3.5.1, 3.10, 3.14.4, Table 3.3
increases in open path lengths.....................................................................C/AS1 3.5
intermediate floors..................................................................C/AS1 3.3.2 f), 3.4.1 a),
3.4.6, 3.9.13, Figure 3.9
length.................. C/AS1 1.3.4 Step 2, 2.2.8, 3.1.3, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.4, 3.4.6 to 3.4.8,
3.5, 3.15.1, Figures 3.7 and 3.9, Table 3.3
number of open paths................................................................................C/AS1 3.8.1
ramps....................................................................................C/AS1 3.1.4, 3.9.2, 3.14.7
separation of open paths........................................................C/AS1 3.8.3, Figure 3.12
size of open paths......................................................................................C/AS1 3.8.1
sloping floors and ceilings......................................................................C/AS1 3.4.8 a)
special cases.................................................................................................C/AS1 3.9
aisles.................................................................... C/AS1 3.9.4 to 3.9.9, Figure 3.15
exception for education buildings.........................................................C/AS1 3.8.4
fixed seating.......................................C/AS1 3.9.3, Figures 3.13 to 3.15, Table 3.4
ladders................................................................................................. C/AS1 3.10.2
long corridors.......................................................................C/AS1 6.13, Figure 6.5
loose seating........................................................................... C/AS1 3.9.10, 3.9.11
separate tenancies................................................................................ C/AS1 3.9.1
subdivision....................................................................................... C/AS1 6.13.1 a)
unenclosed stairs................................................................................ C/AS1 3.9.14
protected paths................................... C/AS1 3.1.2, 3.7.1 a), 3.9.12, 3.9.13, 3.11.1, 3.11.2,
3.15.3 b), 3.16.3, 6.9.1, 6.9.6 a), 6.10.4 a),
6.11.3 b), Figures 3.1, 3.7, 3.8, 3.11, 3.19,
3.28 and 3.30, Tables 2.1 and 6.1
floor area.......................................................................................... C/AS1 3.4.3, 3.4.5
length..................................................... C/AS1 3.1.3, 3.4.1, 3.4.4, 6.13.1 a), Table 3.3
subdivision............................................................................................ C/AS1 6.13.1 a)
safe paths............................... C/AS1 3.1.2, 3.4.1 b), 3.7.1, 3.9.14, 3.11.4 to 3.11.6, 3.11.9,
3.14.1, 3.15.3 b), 3.15.6, 3.15.8 a), 3.16.1,3.16.6, 3.16.8,
3.16.9, 6.9.2 to 6.9.4, 6.10.4 a), 6.22.2 d), 7.2.1 b), 7.7.1,
A2.1.1 Type 13 Type 19, Figures 3.1, 3.8, 3.16, 3.19, 3.21,
3.22, 3.24, 3.29 to 3.31 and 5.1, Tables 2.1, 6.1 and 7.4
glazing..........................................................................................C/AS1 5.8, Figure 5.1
horizontal safe paths......... C/AS1 3.11.6 a), 3.11.7, 3.11.8, 3.17.9 b), 3.17.13 e), 6.9.8
length restrictions.....................................................................C/AS1 3.11.7, 3.15.5 c)
permitted activities.................................................................................. C/AS1 3.12.2
subdivision............................................................................................ C/AS1 6.13.1 a)
vertical safe paths....................................C/AS1 3.11.6 b), 3.11.7, 3.12.3,3.13, 3.16.3,
3.17.9 b), 3.17.12 a),3.17.13 e), 6.9.7, 6.9.11,
A2.1.1 Type 14, Figure 6.1

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

163
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Escape routes (continued)

signs...................................................................................................................C/AS1 3.20
single escape routes.......................................................................................... C/AS1 3.15
active purpose groups.................................................................. C/AS1 3.15.3, 3.15.4
basements............................................................................ C/AS1 3.15.2, Figure 3.19
bridges.................................................................................. C/AS1 3.15.7, Figure 3.23
external balconies................................................................C/AS1 3.15.7, Figure 3.22
external stairways.................................................................................... C/AS1 3.15.7
intermediate floors.............................................................................. C/AS1 6.22.2 c)
internal stairs........................................................................C/AS1 3.15.6, Figure 3.21
sleeping purpose groups......................................................C/AS1 3.15.5, Figure 3.21
split level exitways.............................................................. C/AS1 3.15.8, Figure 3.24
stairs...........................................................C/AS1 3.15.6, 3.15.7, Figures 3.21 to 3.23
surface finishes.............................................................C/AS1 3.3.2 h), 3.4.2 e), Table 6.2

Equipotential bonding.............................................................................................G12/AS1 9.0

earth bonding conductors............................................................................... G12/AS1 9.3
installation of conductors................................................................................ G12/AS1 9.2
metallic sanitary fixtures...................................................... G12/AS1 9.2.2, Figure 20
metallic water supply pipes..................................................G12/AS1 9.2.1, Figure 19

Escape through adjacent firecell....................................................... C/AS1 3.9.12, Figure 3.16

Escape through adjoining building.......................................................... C/AS1 3.6, Figure 3.11

Evacuation time..................................................................................................... NZBC/F6.3.1

Amend 11
Sep 2010 Exitways.............................................F7/AS1 1.2.5, 1.2.6, 1.3.5 c), 1.5.2, F8/AS1 3.1.1, 3.2.3
pressurisation.................................................................................................. F7/AS1 1.3.7

Explosion
see Structure, loads, and Hazardous Substances and Processes

Explosives
see also Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 1 Explosives

External Moisture..................................................................................................................E2
concealed spaces............................................................................................NZBC/E2.3.5
elements in contact with the ground..............................................................NZBC/E2.3.3
external walls................................................................................................. NZBC/E2.3.2
moisture present at completion of construction............................................NZBC/E2.3.6
roofs................................................................................................... NZBC/E2.3.1, E2.3.2
scope.................................................................................................. E2/VM1 1.2, AS1 1.0
construction excluded................................................................................. E2/AS1 1.2
acoustics............................................................................................. E2/AS1 1.2.3
commercial and industrial roofing.........................................................E2/VM1 3.0
outbuildings......................................................................................... E2/AS1 1.2.1
skillion roofs..........................................................................................E2/VM1 3.0
spread of flame................................................................................... E2/AS1 1.2.2
construction included.................................................................................. E2/AS1 1.1
provisions for snow..................................................................................... E2/AS1 1.3
qualifications............................................................................................... E2/AS1 1.5
specific design............................................................................................ E2/AS1 1.4
windows and doors..............................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.1
snow................................................................................................................NZBC/E2.3.1
suspended floors............................................................................................NZBC/E2.3.4
Verification Method........................................................ E2/VM1 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, Appendix 1
alternative test options............................................................................... E2/VM1 1.5
commercial and industrial roofing..............................................................E2/VM1 3.0
general........................................................................................................ E2/VM1 1.1
pitched roofing systems.............................................................................E2/VM1 2.0
scope.......................................................................................................... E2/VM1 1.2
skillion roofs................................................................................................E2/VM1 3.0
sest procedure........................................................................................... E2/VM1 1.4

164 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

External walls................................ C/AS1 3.14.3, 3.14.5, 3.14.6, 5.7.5, 5.7.6, 6.12.7, 7.1.1,
7.3, 7.4.1, 7.5 to 7.7, 7.8.7, 7.9.7, 7.9.10, 7.9.11, 7.10,
7.11.2, Figures 6.11, 6.12, 7.1, 7.3 and 7.11, Table 7.5
cladding....................................................C/AS1 7.9.18, 7.11.2, 7.11.3, C9.1, Table 7.5
fire resistance ratings........................ C/AS1 3.14.5, 3.14.6, 5.7.5, 5.7.6, 7.3.10, 7.4.3,
7.8.3 to 7.8.5, 7.8.10 c), 7.9.9, 7.9.13, 7.10
firecell separation............ C/AS1 7.3, 7.8 to 7.10, Figures 7.1 to 7.12, Tables 7.1 to 7.4
glazing.....................................C/AS1 7.3.3 c), 7.3.5 to 7.3.7, 7.4, Figure 7.4, Table 7.1
return walls............... C/AS1 7.3.3 e), 7.3.9, 7.7, 7.10.4, Figure 7.9, Tables 7.3 and 7.4
surface finishes............................................................ C/AS1 7.1.2 c), 7.11.2 to 7.11.3
wing walls................................... C/AS1 7.3.3 d), 7.3.9, 7.7, 7.10.4, Tables 7.3 and 7.4

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

165
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

F
F rating
see Fire resistance ratings

Factories
see Industrial buildings

Falsework
see Structure

Farm buildings
see Buildings, farm buildings

Fascias
see Gutters, barges and fascias

FHC
see Fire hazard category
FI
see Flammability index

Fibre cement sheet..................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.3.6.2, 9.7

corners............................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.7.5
flush-finished systems ..............................................E2/AS1 9.7.5.2, Figures 111-113
(internal and external corners)
non-flush-finished ............................................ E2/AS1 9.7.5.1, Figures 109, 111-112
(internal and external corners)
decorative attachments.................................................................................. E2/AS1 9.7.9
finishes...........................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.7.10
flush-finished cladding........................................................................ E2/AS1 9.7.10.2
non-flush-finished cladding..................................................................E2/AS1 9.7.10.1
installation....................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.7.3, Table 23
fixings.....................................................................................E2/AS1 9.7.3.1, Table 24
joints................................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.7.4
control joints........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.7.4.1, Table 19
flush-finished...................................................................... E2/AS1 9.7.4.3, Figure 110
non-flush-finished.....................................................E2/AS1 9.7.4.2, Figures 103-108
limitations.........................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.7.1
flush-finished joint systems................................................................... E2/AS1 9.7.1.1
material............................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.7.2
parapets and enclosed balustrades................................................................ E2/AS1 9.7.8
flush-finished topped balustrades......................................E2/AS1 9.7.8.1, Figure 117
soffit details.................................................................................. E2/AS1 9.7.6, Figure 114
windows and doors......................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.7.7
windows – direct fixed........................................................ E2/AS1 9.7.7.1, Figure 115
windows – on cavity............................................................E2/AS1 9.7.7.2, Figure 116
Fibre cement weatherboards................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.5
installation....................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.5.3, Table 23
external corners..................................................... E2/AS1 9.5.3.3, Figures 88 and 89
fixings.................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.5.3.1, Table 24
internal corners.................................................................... E2/AS1 9.5.3.4, Figure 89
laps and joints...................................................................... E2/AS1 9.5.3.2, Figure 87
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.5.1
material performance......................................................................................E2/AS1 9.5.2
parapets and enclosed balustrades................................................................E2/AS1 9.5.5
protective coating............................................................................................E2/AS1 9.5.6
windows and doors.........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.5.4
windows – direct fixed.........................................................E2/AS1 9.5.4.1, Figure 90
windows – on cavity............................................................ E2/AS1 9.5.4.2, Figure 91

Filters
see Strainers

Final exits.............C/AS1 3.1.2, 3.1.3, 3.14.5, 3.16.4, 3.17.1 c), 3.18.1, 6.20.18 a), Figures 3.1,
3.2, 3.12, 3.19, 3.24 and 3.31, Table 6.1; F8/AS1 3.1.1 a) b), 3.2.3 a)

166 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Fire alarm systems

see Fire safety precautions

Fire engineering design................................................................................ F7/AS1 1.1.7, 1.4.1

Fire fighting facilities...................................................................................................C/AS1 8.2

Fire hazard categories (FHC)............ C/AS1 1.3.2 Step 3, 2.2.1, 3.12.2 d),3.12.3 c), 3.15.2 b),
3.15.3 a), 4.2.3, 5.4.1 f) j), 6.6.7, 6.20.7, 6.20.15 a),
6.21.5 a), 6.22.1, 7.1.3, 7.3.2 b), 7.5.2, 7.5.3 Step 4,
7.7.5 Step 5, 7.8.1, 7.8.2, 7.8.9 c) d), 7.10.5 a),
Figures 3.19, 3.20, 1 and 7.10 Note 3,
Tables 2.1, 5.1, 7.1 to 7.4
category 4 buildings.........................C/AS1 2.2.10, 5.6.11 to 5.6.13, 7.8.1, 7.8.2, Table 2.1

Fire load energy density (FLED)..................................C/AS1 2.2.1 comments, 2.2.10, Table 5

Fire resistance ratings (FRR).....................................C/AS1 1.3.2 Step 8, 1.3.4 Steps 4 and 6,

1.3.5 b), 3.6.1 c), 3.14.6 c), 3.16.6, 4.1.2, 4.3.2, 5.1, 5.2,
5.9.5 a) b), 5.9.6, 6.2.1, 6.3.1, 6.6.1, 6.6.2, 6.6.5 to 6.6.7,
6.7.1, 6.7.2, 6.7.5, 6.7.6, 6.8.1, 6.9.2, 6.9.3, 6.10.1,
6.10.2, 6.10.5, 6.11.1, 6.12.1, 6.12.6, 6.14, 6.15,
6.16.2, 6.17.2, 6.18.8, 6.19.14, 7.2.1, 7.4.3, 7.8.1 a),
7.8.2 to 7.8.6, 7.8.10 b) c), 7.9.3, 7.9.4, 7.9.8 b),
7.9.13, 7.10, C7.1.1, Figure 7.10, Table 6.1
application of F and S ratings...............................................................................C/AS1 5.3
applying FRRs to building elements.................................................................... C/AS1 5.7
concessions for multiple purpose groups..............................................C/AS1 5.6.7, 5.6.8
determining F and S ratings..........................................................................C/AS1 5.4, 5.5
determining the FRR.....................................................................................C/AS1 5.6
fire resistance tests...............................................................................C/AS1 5.9.6, C7.1.1
firecell rating (F).................. C/AS1 3.16.6, 4.1.2, 4.3.2, 4.4.1 Step 5, 4.5.7, 4.5.14, 5.2.2,
5.3.1, 5.4, 5.5.1, 5.6.5, 5.6.9 a), 6.15.1, 6.16.2,
6.20.15, 7.2.1 a), 7.10.2, 7.10.3, Table 4.1
firecells rated F0...................................................................................................C/AS1 6.2
floors................................C/AS1 3.14.6 c), 4.3.2, 5.6.4 d), 5.7.3, 6.10.3, 6.14, 6.15, 7.8.6
insulation rating.................................................................... C/AS1 5.1.1 c), 5.6.4 to 5.6.6,
5.8.10, 6.19.13, 7.8.1 a), Table 6.1 Notes
integrity rating................................................................ C/AS1 5.1.1 b), 5.6.6, 5.8.2, 7.4.3
intermediate floors..............................................................................C/AS1 4.5.16, 6.14.3
minimum FRRs.................................................................................................. C/AS1 5.7.9
open sided buildings........................................................... C/AS1 7.8.10 b) c), Figure 7.10
reductions for sprinklered firecells...................................................................C/AS1 5.6.6
roofs........................................................ C/AS1 7.8.1, 7.9.3, 7.9.8 b), Figures 7.1 and 7.11
small buildings................................................................................................. C/AS1 7.10.5
stability rating................................................................. C/AS1 5.1.1 a), 5.6.6, 5.9.4, 5.9.5
structural fire endurance rating (S)............................................C/AS1 2.2.10, 4.1.2, 4.2.3,
5.2.2, 5.3.2, 5.4, 5.5.2, 5.5.3,
5.6.5, 5.6.9 a), 5.6.11, 6.10.5, 7.2.1,
7.4.3, 7.8.1 a), 7.8.5, 7.8.6, 7.10.2,
7.10.5, 7.10.8, Table 5.1

Fire resisting closures........................................... C/AS1 6.18.9, 6.19, C7.1.1, C8.1.1, Table 6.1
access panels................................................................................................ C/AS1 6.19.12
fire curtains....................................................................................... C/AS1 6.19.9, 6.19.10
fire dampers.................................................................... C/AS1 6.3.2 f), 6.16.4 d), 6.19.14
fire doors
see Doors
fire shutters...................................................................................C/AS1 6.19.15 to 6.19.17
lift landing doors
see Doors
smoke control doors
see Doors

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

167
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Fire safety
see Means of Escape, Outbreak of Fire, Spread of Fire,
Structural Stability during Fire

Fire safety precautions (FSP).........C/AS1 1.2.3, 1.3.2 Step 6, 2.3.1, 3.1.5, 4.2.6, 4.2.7, 4.3.1,
4.4.1, 4.5, 5.6.8, 6.10.1, 6.11.1, Appendix A, Table 4.1
Amend 11 automatic fire alarm system with modified smoke ............................. C/AS1 3.5.4, 4.5.4,
Sep 2010 detection and manual call points (Type 5) 4.5.10, Table 4.1
domestic (Type 1)............................................................................................C/AS1 A2.1.1
emergency electrical power supply
(Type 17)...................................................................C/AS1 6.23.1 d), 6.23.3, 6.23.4, A2.1
emergency lighting (Type 16).................................. C/AS1 3.19.2, 6.23.3 c), 6.23.4, A2.1
emergency lighting in exitways...................................................................... F7/AS1 1.5.2
fire alarm systems
activation of system.................................................................................. F7/AS1 2.1.1
Amend 11 automatic........................................................................... F7/AS1 1.1.3, 1.2.3 to 1.2.7
Sep 2010 heat detectors............................. F7/AS1 1.2.3, 1.2.5, 1.2.6, 1.3.1, 1.3.2, 1.3.4, 1.3.5
high sensitivity smoke detection.............................................................. F7/AS1 1.1.7
installation and maintenance................................................F7/AS1 1.1.3, 1.1.5, 1.2.6,
1.2.7, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5.3
manual (Type 2)...........C/AS1 4.5.3, 4.5.9, 4.5.10 b), A2.1; F7/AS1 1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.2.2
means of communication with the Fire Service
see Alerting the Fire Service
modified smoke detection.......................................................... F7/AS1 1.2.5 to 1.2.7
requirements................................................................................................F7/AS1 2.1
smoke detectors........................................ F7/AS1 1.1.6, 1.2.4, 1.2.9, 1.3, 1.4.1, 1.5.3
substitution of smoke detectors by heat detectors................................. F7/AS1 1.3.5
fire hose reels (Type 14)......................................................................... C/AS1 8.2.2, A2.1
fire hydrant systems (Type 18)................................................................C/AS1 8.2.1, A2.1
Fire Service lift controls (Type 15).................................. C/AS1 8.2.5, A2.1; F7/AS1 1.5.2
fire sprinklers (Type 6)................................................... C/AS1 3.9.12 f), 3.15.3 a), 3.15.6,
3.15.7 a), 4.1.1 a), 4.5.10, 4.5.11, 5.6.13,
6.3.2 a) d), 6.6.8, 6.16.7, 6.18.10,
6.19.9, A2.1, Appendix D, Figure 7.2
concessions for sprinklers.............. C/AS1 3.3.2 c), 3.4.8 d), 3.5.2, 3.14.3, 3.15.3 a),
3.15.6, 3.15.7 a), 3.16.3 b), 4.2.5, 5.5.3, 5.6.6,
5.6.7 b), 5.6.8, 5.8.7, 5.8.8, 6.3.1, 6.5.1, 6.7.2,
6.9.6 d), 6.9.11, 6.10.5, 6.13.1, 6.20.5, 6.20.10,
6.20.15 a), 6.22.3 a), 7.2.2, 7.3.12, 7.7.6,
7.9.3, 7.9.10, 8.1.1 e), Tables 4.1 Note 5, 6.2
residential................................................................................................... C/AS1 D3.1
with smoke detectors (Type 7)..........C/AS1 3.12.2 b), 4.5.10, 4.5.11, 6.22.2 g), A2.1
Amend 11 fire sprinkler systems
Sep 2010 automatic................................................................... F7/AS1 1.2.5, 1.2.8, 1.3.2, 1.3.4
with smoke detectors.............................................................................. F7/AS1 1.2.9
fire systems centre (Type 20).......................................................C/AS1 8.2.3, 8.2.4, A2.1
heat detectors (Type 3).......................................C/AS1 3.5.3, 3.5.5, 4.5.4, 4.5.10, 4.5.11,
6.10.4 c), 6.11.3 b), A2.1
hold-open devices................................................................................. F7/AS1 1.3.6, 1.5.2
manual (Type 2)............................................................ C/AS1 4.5.3, 4.5.9, 4.5.10 b), A2.1
mechanical smoke extract....................................................................F7/AS1 1.3.8, 1.5.2
mechanical smoke extract (Type 11)............................... C/AS1 3.4.6 a), 3.4.8 d), 6.21.5,
6.22.7 c), 6.22.8 c), 6.22.11, 6.22.12,
6.22.14, A2.1, B3.1.1, Table 6.6
modified smoke/heat detection (Type 5)............................................... C/AS1 3.5.4, A2.1
natural smoke venting...........................................................................F7/AS1 1.3.8, 1.5.2
natural smoke venting (Type 10)......................C/AS1 3.4.6 a), 3.4.8 d), 6.21.5, 6.22.7 b),
6.22.8 b) c), 6.22.10, 6.22.14, A2.1,
B3.1.1, Table 6.5
pressurisation of safe paths (Type 13)...............................C/AS1 3.7.1 b), 3.11.6 b), 6.9.6,
6.9.11, 6.13.1, 6.19.4 c), 6.21.2, 6.23.1 b),
A2.1, B1.1.1, Table 6.1 Note 2;
F7/AS1 1.3.7, 1.5.2
refuge areas (Type 19)..........................................................C/AS1 3.13, A2.1, Figure 3.17

168 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Fire safety precautions (FSP) (continued)

smoke control in air-handling systems
(Type 9)...............................................................C/AS1 6.23.2, A2.1; F7/AS1 1.5.2, 1.5.3
smoke detectors.............................................. F7/AS1 1.1.6, 1.2.4, 1.2.9, 1.3, 1.4.1, 1.5.3
smoke detectors (Type 4)............................. C/AS1 3.5.4, 3.5.5, 3.12.2 b), 3.17.10, 4.5.4,
4.5.10, 4.5.11, 6.22.2 g), 6.22.14, 6.23.1,
A2.1, B1.1.1
voice communication system (Type 8)...................................C/AS1 3.16.3 d), 8.2.6, A2.1

Fire separations........................ C/AS1 1.3.5 b), 3.11.9, 4.1.1 a), 5.1.1, 5.3.1, 5.3.2 d) e), 5.6.3,
5.6.4 a), 5.6.5 c), 5.6.7, 5.7.2, 5.7.4, 6.2.1, 6.3.1, 6.6,
6.7, 6.8.1, 6.9.2, 6.9.3, 6.10.1, 6.10.2, 6.10.5, 6.11.1,
6.11.2, 6.12, 6.14.1, 6.14.4, 6.15.1 a), 6.17, 6.18.4,
6.18.7 to 6.18.10, 7.2.1, 7.2.2, Table 6.1
junctions................................................. C/AS1 6.12.4 to 6.12.7, 6.12.9, 6.18.4, Figure 6.4
protected shafts...............................................................................C/AS1 6.16, Figure 6.8

Fire Service............................................................C/AS1 4.2.6 c), 5.9.3 f), 6.21.2, 6.22.12 b),

Part 8, A2.1.1 Type 15 and Type 20;
F7/AS1 1.2.2, 2.1.2 a), 2.2
see also Alerting the Fire Service
installation and maintenance.....................F7/AS1 1.1.3, 1.1.5, 1.2.6, 1.2.7, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5.3
manual.......................................................................................... F7/AS1 1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.2.2
means of communication with............................ C/AS1 A1.3.1, A2.1.1 Type 2 and Type 7
requirements.......................................................................................................F7/AS1 2.1
activation of system.................................................................................. F7/AS1 2.1.1
smoke detectors.....................................................................F7/AS1 1.2.5, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5.3
vehicular access.......................................................................................C/AS1 8.1.1, 8.1.2

Fire shutters
see Fire resisting closures

Fire spread
horizontal............................................................................C/AS1 4.1.1 b), 7.1.1 b), 7.3, 7.8
vertical.......................................................................................C/AS1 4.1.1 b), 7.1.1 a), 7.9
between different levels of the same building..........................C/AS1 7.9.10 to 7.9.15
external thermal insulation........................................ C/AS1 7.9.18, 7.9.19, Figure 7.12
from an adjacent lower roof...................................... C/AS1 7.9.6 to 7.9.9, Figure 7.11
roof car parking and storage.............................................. C/AS1 7.8.2, 7.9.16, 7.9.17
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Fire stopping.................... C/AS1 6.12.5, 6.12.7 a), 6.12.9, 6.17, 6.18.1, 6.18.4, C6.1.1, C6.1.2,
Figures 6.4, 6.9 and 6.11
cavity barriers..................................................................C/AS1 6.18.4, 6.18.6, Figure 6.12
curtain walls................................................................................ C/AS1 7.9.14, Figure 6.11
external thermal insulation...........................................................C/AS1 7.9.18, Figure 7.12
hollow construction..................................................................... C/AS1 6.17.5, Figure 6.12
protected shafts...........................................C/AS1 3.12.3 e), 6.16.3, 6.16.4 e), Figure 6.8
service outlets............................................................................... C/AS1 6.17.6, Figure 6.9

Firecell rating (F)

see Fire resistance ratings
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Firecells.......................................................................... F7/AS1 1.2.5, 1.2.7, 1.3.1, 1.3.4, 1.3.5
basements.................................................................................... C/AS1 3.7, 4.5.15, 6.14.4
buildings remaining occupied during fire..............................................C/AS1 5.6.9, 5.6.10
car parking........................................................................................C/AS1 6.10.3 to 6.10.6
ceiling space firecells...................................................................................... C/AS1 6.12.8
concealed spaces................................................................................C/AS1 6.18.2, 6.18.3
concessions for multiple purpose groups..............................................C/AS1 5.6.7, 5.6.8
construction....................................................................................................... C/AS1 6.12
fire hazard category 4........................................................... C/AS1 2.2.10, 5.6.11 to 5.6.13
fire safety precautions
see Fire safety precautions
firecells rated F0...................................................................................................C/AS1 6.2
floor area limits.................................................................................... C/AS1 4.2.3 to 4.2.5
group sleeping areas............................................. C/AS1 6.6.3, 6.6.4, 6.6.7, 6.7.2 to 6.7.5
intermediate floors...................................C/AS1 4.5.16 to 4.5.18, 6.14.1 a), 6.14.3, 6.21.3
to 6.21.6, Figure 6.6,Tables 6.5 and 6.6

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

169
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Firecells (continued)
limited area atriums...........................................C/AS1 6.22, Figure 6.14, Tables 6.4 to 6.6
plant, boiler and incinerator rooms......................................................C/AS1 6.11.3, 6.11.4
protected shafts................................................................................................. C/AS1 6.16
provision of firecells.............................................................................................C/AS1 4.2
roofs..............................................................................C/AS1 7.8.1 to 7.8.5, 7.9.1 to 7.9.9
solid waste storage......................................................................................... C/AS1 6.10.2
suites..................................C/AS1 2.2.9, 3.15.5, 6.6.5, 6.7.6, 6.9.6, 6.14.3, A2.1.1 Type 5
top floor firecells............................................................................................. C/AS1 4.5.14

Fireplace.......................................................... C/AS1 9.1 to 9.3, Figures 9.1 and 9.3, Table 9.1

Fire Safety...........................................................................................................C/AS1, C/VM1

Fixings........................... E2/AS1 4.4, 8.1.4, 8.2.4, 8.3.7, 8.4.8, 8.4.8.1, 8.4.9, 8.4.9.1, 9.4.3.1,
9.4.4.3, 9.4.5.2, 9.5.3.1, 9.6.6, 9.7.3.1, 9.8.3.1, 9.9.4.1,
Tables 14, 15, 20-22, 24, Figures 39 and 40
Fixtures
sanitary fixtures
see Personal Hygiene

Amend 11 Flame barriers............................C/AS1 3.14.6 b) c), 6.18.5 c), 6.20.12 a), 6.20.13, 6.20.14 b),
Sep 2010 C9.1, Table 6.3

Flammability index (FI)............................................................................C/AS1 C3.1, Table 6.2

Flammable liquids
see Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 3 flammable liquids

Flammable solids
see Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 4 flammable solids

Flashings.................................. E2/AS1 4.0, 8.2.4, 8.2.6, 8.3.8, 8.4.11, 8.4.11.1, 8.4.12, 9.6.7,
Tables 20-22, Figures 5 and 6
apron flashings...................................................... E2/AS1 5.1, 8.4.12 b), Figures 7 and 43
durability requirements................................................................................... E2/AS1 4.2.1
fixings................................................................................................................. E2/AS1 4.4
head flashings...............................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.4, Table 7
jamb flashings...............................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.6, Table 7
materials..................................................... E2/AS1 4.1, 4.2, 4.2.2, 4.2.3, 4.2.4, 4.3, 9.8.5
aluminium.................................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.2
aluminium-zinc coated steel.....................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.4
bituminous.............................................................................................. E2/AS1 4.3.10
butyl rubber..............................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.9
copper.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.6
EPDM.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.9
flexible flashing tape.............................................................................. E2/AS1 4.3.11
galvanised steel........................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.3
lead sheet.................................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.7
stainless steel...........................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.5
uPVC......................................................................................................... E2/AS1 4.3.1
zinc sheet.................................................................................................E2/AS1 4.3.8
overlaps and upstands....................................................................................... E2/AS1 4.6
overlap with roof claddings...................................................................... E2/AS1 4.6.1
apron flashing cover over metal roofing.......................................... E2/AS1 4.6.1.1
barges............................................................................................... E2/AS1 4.6.1.5
change in metal roof pitches............................................................ E2/AS1 4.6.1.3
inter-storey junctions........................................................................ E2/AS1 4.6.1.7
parallel flashing................................................................................. E2/AS1 4.6.1.1
ridges and hips................................................................................. E2/AS1 4.6.1.2
roof- or deck-to-wall junctions......................................................... E2/AS1 4.6.1.4
transverse flashing........................................................................... E2/AS1 4.6.1.1
window heads.................................................................................. E2/AS1 4.6.1.6
requirements............................................................................................... E2/AS1 4.5
edge treatments................................................................... E2/AS1 4.5.1, Figure 5
metal flashing joins..............................................................E2/AS1 4.5.2, Figure 6

170 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Flats
see Housing, multi-unit dwelling

FLED
see Fire load energy density

Flooding
flood risk assessment....................................................................................E1/VM1 3.2.2
history of..........................................................................................................E1/AS1 1.0.1
protection from..............................................................................................E1/VM1 3.2.2

Floors......................NZBC/B2.3.1 (a), D1.3.3 (e),D1.3.4 (c), E2.3.3, E2.3.4, G6.3.1, G6.3.2;

B1/AS2 2.1.1; E2/AS1 10.0; F7/AS1 1.1.2; G3/AS1 2.2.3, 2.2.4, 2.3.3,
2.3.4, 2.3.5, 2.3.6
basement floors................................................ C/AS1 3.3.2 i), 3.15.2, 6.14.4, Figure 3.19
concealed spaces.............................................................. C/AS1 6.18.4, 6.18.5 a), 6.18.10
concrete slab-on-ground.................................................................................. E2/AS1 10.3
acceptable materials..............................................................................E2/AS1 10.3.4
damp-proof membranes (DPM).........................................E2/AS1 10.3.3, Figure 132
finished floor levels.............................................E2/AS1 10.3.5, Table 18, Figure 132
floor levels...........................................................................E2/AS1 10.3.2, Figure 132
general................................................................................. E2/AS1 10.3.1, Figure 132
protection from timber...........................................................................E2/AS1 10.3.6
fire resistance ratings...................... C/AS1 3.14.6 c), 4.1.1 a), 4.3.2, 4.5.7, 5.3.1, 5.6.4 d),
5.6.8, 5.7.3, 6.10.3, 6.12.2, 6.14.2 to 6.14.4, 6.15.1
floor projections............................................................................. C/AS1 7.8.6, 7.9.13
flooring materials....................................................................... C/AS1 6.20.8, 6.20.14
intermediate floors.............................. C/AS1 3.3.2 f), 3.4.6, 3.9.13, 4.5.16 to 4.5.18,
5.6.4 d), 5.6.5 b), 6.10.3, 6.14.1 a), 6.14.3, 6.21.3, 6.22,
A2.1.1 Type 10 and Type 11, B4.1.1, Figures 3.9 and 6.6,
Tables 6.4 to 6.6
limited area intermediate floors.......................C/AS1 4.5.17, 6.21.4 a), 6.21.5, 6.21.6
lower floors.................................C/AS1 3.16.9, 4.5.10, 4.5.11, 6.7.7, 6.9.3, Figure 3.5
more than one purpose group on a floor..........................C/AS1 4.5.1 to 4.5.6, 5.6.11
other floors in a building..............................................................C/AS1 4.5.8 to 4.5.11
same purpose group on different floors.................................................. C/AS1 4.5.13
sloping floors and ceilings......................................................................C/AS1 3.4.8 a)
subfloor spaces...................................................... C/AS1 6.15.1, 6.18.5 a), Figure 6.7
top floor firecells....................................................................................... C/AS1 4.5.14
upper floors..................................... C/AS1 3.15.3 b), 3.16.3 a), 4.5.11, 5.7.6 b), 6.7.7,
6.8.2, 6.8.6, 7.5.7, Figure 3.5
wooden floors............................................................................ C/AS1 6.12.6, 6.20.14
floor/ceiling assemblies.................................................................. G6/AS1 1.0.3, Figure 3
floor/wall junctions.......................................................................... G6/AS1 1.0.3, Figure 5
minimum floor level................................................................ E1/AS1 2.0, Figures 1 and 2
moisture..........................................................................................................NZBC/E2.3.4
slip resistant...................................................................NZBC/D1.3.3 (d); G15/AS1 3.0.2
suspended timber floors.................................................................................. E2/AS1 10.2
airflow.....................................................................................................E2/AS1 10.2.6
general.................................................................................................... E2/AS1 10.2.1
openings.................................................................................................E2/AS1 10.2.5
protection of timber................................................................................E2/AS1 10.2.2
separation............................................................................E2/AS1 10.2.3, Figure 131
subfloor ventilation.................................................................................E2/AS1 10.2.4
vapour barriers in subfloor space........................................................... E2/AS1 10.2.7
installation...................................................................................... E2/AS1 10.2.7.2
minimum ventilation with vapour barrier....................................... E2/AS1 10.2.7.1

Floor outlets............................................................................................................G13/AS1 3.4

Floor wastes.....................................................................................E3/AS1 2.0.1, 2.2, Figure 4

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

171
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Flues................................................................ NZBC/G11.3.3; G4/AS1 2.3, 2.4; G11/AS1 5.0

fire damper.......................................................................................................G11/AS1 5.3
gas burning appliances........................................................................................C/AS1 9.2
locations on dwellings....................................................................................... G4/AS1 2.4
materials........................................................................................................... G11/AS1 5.1
oil fired appliances...............................................................................................C/AS1 9.3
safety devices..................................................................................................G11/AS1 5.2
solid fuel appliances............................................................................................. C/AS1 9.1

Foamed plastics building materials............... C/AS1 6.20.1, 6.20.5 6.20.11 to 6.20.13, 7.9.18,
Figure 7.12, Table 6.3
Food Preparation and Prevention of Contamination...................................................... G3
cooking....................................................................NZBC/G3.3.1 (c); G3/AS1 1.2.1, 1.4.1
energy supply................................................................................................. NZBC/G3.3.3
location........................................................................................................... NZBC/G3.3.4
people with disabilities.................................................................................. NZBC/G3.3.5
preparation............................................................................ NZBC/G3.3.1 (b) (d), G3.3.2
prevention of contamination.......................................................................... NZBC/G3.3.6
rinsing.............................................................................................................. G3/AS1 1.1.1
storage............................................................................. NZBC/G3.3.1 (a); G3/AS1 1.3.1
refrigeration................................................................................... G3/AS1 1.3.2, 1.4.1
ventilation............................................................................G3/AS1 1.3.2, 1.3.3, 1.3.4
surfaces..................................................................................G3/AS1 1.1.2, 1.1.3, Figure 1
utensil washing........................................................................... NZBC/G3.3.1 (b), G3.3.2

Foul Water .......................................................................................................................... G13

see also Discharge pipes, Drains, Sanitary appliances, Sanitary fixtures, Vent pipes,
Water seals, Water traps
gravity flow.........................................................................NZBC/G13.3.1 (a), G13.3.2 (a)
odours.................................... NZBC/G13.1 (b), G13.3.1 (c), G13.3.2 (e); G13/AS1 3.1.1
offensive matter.........................................................................................NZBC/G13.1 (b)
on-site disposal systems............................................................................. NZBC/G13.3.4
see also Industrial Liquid Waste
outfalls.............................................................................................. NZBC/G13.2, G13.3.2
personal hygiene........................................................................................ NZBC/G13.1 (a)
plumbing system.............................................................................. NZBC/G13.2, G13.3.1
sewer.............................................................................. NZBC/G13.3.3, G13.3.4, G15.3.3
three storey buildings...............................................................................G13/AS1 Figure 7
Amend 11
Sep 2010 Foundations...................................................................................................................B1/VM4
see also Chimneys, foundations
design parameters
continuous vibration................................................................................B1/VM4 1.0.6
depth........................................................................................................B1/VM4 2.0.4
ground stability........................................................................................B1/VM4 1.0.4
long-term loading...............................................................................B1/VM4 2.0.6
short-term loading..............................................................................B1/VM4 2.0.6
serviceability deformations.......................................................B1/VM4 1.0.3, Appendix B
pile foundations.................................................................................................B1/VM4 4.0
belled piles................................................................................ B1/VM4 4.0.3 b), 5.1.2
bulbed piles.........................................................................................B1/VM4 4.0.3 c)
concrete piles
cast-in-situ..........................................................................................B1/VM4 3.4.4
precast...................................................................................... B1/VM4 3.4.4, 5.1.1
downdrag....................................................................................................B1/VM4 4.5
nominal width..................................................................... B1/VM4 4.0.3, 4.2.2, 4.6.1
notation.......................................................................................B1/VM4 4.1.1, Table 2
pile driving............................................................................................... B1/VM4 5.1.1
pile driving formula..................................................................................B1/VM4 4.0.1
pile groups
design pile lateral strength.................................................................B1/VM4 4.0.4
design pile vertical strength...............................................................B1/VM4 4.0.4
ultimate lateral strength....................................................... B1/VM4 4.6.1, Table 3
ultimate vertical strength...................................................................B1/VM4 4.4.1

172 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Foundations (continued)
single piles
base resistance............................................................ B1/VM4 4.1.3, Figures 3 and 4
column action.............................................................................................B1/VM4 4.2
design pile lateral strength......................................................................B1/VM4 4.0.4
design pile vertical strength....................................................................B1/VM4 4.0.4
lateral strength...........................................................................................B1/VM4 4.3
drained cohesionless soil...................................................................B1/VM4 4.3.4
free head pile.................................................... B1/VM4 4.3.2 a), 4.3.3 a), 4.3.4 a)
restrained head pile..........................................B1/VM4 4.3.2 b), 4.3.3 b), 4.3.4 b)
undrained cohesive soil..................................................................... B1/VM4 4.3.2
undrained consolidated soil.............................................................. B1/VM4 4.3.3
shaft resistance.......................................................... B1/VM4 4.1.4, Figure 5, Table 2
ultimate axial compression....................................................... B1/VM4 4.0.1 to 4.0.3
vertical strength...................................................................................... B1/VM4 4.1.2
strength reduction factors...................................................................B1/VM4 4.7, Table 4
types
concrete.....................................................................................B1/VM4 5.1.1, 5.1.2
steel..........................................................................................B1/VM4 5.2.1, 5.2.2
timber....................................................................................................B1/VM4 5.3
shallow foundations..........................................................................................B1/VM4 3.0
design bearing pressure................................................................B1/VM4 3.2.1, 3.2.4
design bearing strength......................................................................... B1/VM4 3.2.3
design sliding resistance.........................................................................B1/VM4 3.4.6
local shear.............................................................................................. B1/VM4 3.3.3
moment loading...................................................................................... B1/VM4 3.1.4
notation......................................................................... B1/VM4 3.3.1, Figures 1 and 2
soils................................................................................................B1/VM4 3.1.2, 3.4.3
strength reduction factors.........................................................................B1/VM4 3.5,
surcharge................................................................................................. B1/VM4 3.1.3
ultimate bearing strength.................................... B1/VM4 3.1.1, 3.2.2, 3.3.2, Figure 3
ultimate sliding resistance......................................................................B1/VM4 3.4.2
ultimate sliding strength............................................................... B1/VM4 3.4.4, 3.4.5
see also Chimneys, foundations

FRR
see Fire resistance ratings

FSP
see Fire safety precautions

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

173
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

G
Garages
see Outbuildings

Gas .........................................................................................................................G3/AS1 1.4.1

Gas as an Energy Source....................................................................................................G11

automatic cut-offs........................................................................................ NZBC/G11.3.2
flued appliances........................................................................................... NZBC/G11.3.3
gas supply authority......................................................................................NZBC/G11.3.6
isolation devices........................................................................................... NZBC/G11.3.4
meters........................................................................................................... NZBC G11.3.6
location......................................................................................................G11/AS1 8.0
over pressure protection..................................................................................G11/AS1 3.0
safe pressure ranges.....................................................................................NZBC/G11.3.1
service risers.................................................................................................NZBC/G11.3.6
supply system.................................................................... NZBC/G11.2, G11.3.1, G11.3.5

Gas burning appliances

installation............................................................................................................C/AS1 9.2
seismic restraint................................................................................................C/AS1 9.2.2

Gases
see Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 2 gases

Gas fuel appliances........................................................................................... G4/AS1 2.0, 3.0

Gas reticulation
another Acceptable Solution............................................................................G10/AS1 5.0
cleaning............................................................................................................ G10/AS1 1.1
tailpipes.................................................................................................. G10/AS1 1.1.3
concealed piping..............................................................................................G10/AS1 1.4
in concrete..............................................................................................G10/AS1 1.4.1
in enclosed spaces................................................................................ G10/AS1 1.4.2
underground.............................................................................G10/AS1 1.4.3, Table 3
construction.....................................................................................................G10/AS1 1.0
corrosion control..............................................................................................G10/AS1 3.0
design........................................................................................................G10/AS1 1.0.1 a)
installation........................................................................................................G10/AS1 1.2
bends and offsets...............................................................................G10/AS1 1.2.1 d)
risers...................................................................................................G10/AS1 1.2.1 c)
separation...........................................................................................G10/AS1 1.2.1 b)
supports............................................................................... G10/AS1 1.2.1 a), Table 2
isolating valves.................................................................................................G10/AS1 2.0
materials......................................................................................G10/AS1 1.0.1 b), Table 1
pipework in ducts.............................................................................................G10/AS1 1.5
unventilated ducts..................................................................................G10/AS1 1.5.4
ventilated ducts..................................................................................... G10/AS1 1.5.3
vent lines................................................................................ G10/AS1 4.0, Tables 4 and 5
welded joints....................................................................................................G10/AS1 1.3

Geology...........................................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.2.1 a)

Glazing..............................................................NZBC/F2.3.3; B1/AS1 7.0; C/AS1 5.8, 6.19.11

see also Hazardous Building Materials
concession for sprinklers........................................................................C/AS1 5.8.7, 5.8.8
dimensions.......................................................................................... C/AS1 5.8.3 to 5.8.5
fire resisting glazing................................................................ C/AS1 5.8.1, 5.8.2, 7.3.3 c),
7.3.5, 7.3.7, 7.4, Figure 7.4, Table 7.1
human impact safety..........................................................................................F2/AS1 1.1
in external walls............................................................................................C/AS1 5.8.2 a)
in fire doors..................................................................................................... C/AS1 5.8.10
in fire separations....................................................................................C/AS1 5.8.1, 5.8.2
in safe paths....................................................... C/AS1 5.8.1 c), 5.8.3 to 5.8.8, Figure 5.1
in smoke control doors........................................................................ C/AS1 5.8.10, 5.8.11
in smoke separations and protected paths.......................................................C/AS1 5.8.9
modifications to NZS 4223................................................................................ F2/AS1 1.2

174 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Government agencies............................................................................... NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv)

see also Commercial buildings

Government offices.................................................................................. NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv)

see also Commercial buildings

Grease traps........................................................................................................... G13/AS2 3.4

capacity..............................................................................................G13/AS2 3.4.3, 3.4.4

Ground
good ground....................................................................................................B1/AS3 1.3.2

Ground conditions............................................................................B1/VM4 1.0.2, Appendix A

Groundwater................................................B1/VM4 1.0.2, Appendices A, B; G14/VM1 1.6.1

conditions.......................................................................................................B1/VM4 1.0.2
seasonal changes.........................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.2.1
tidal changes................................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.2.1

Group sleeping areas................................................... C/AS1 6.6.3, 6.6.4, 6.6.7, 6.7.2 to 6.7.4

Gully traps........................................ G13/AS1 Figures 5 and 7, G13/AS2 3.3, Figures 2 and 3

construction.................................................................................. G13/AS2 3.3.1, Figure 4
overflow relief.............................................................................................. G13/AS2 3.3.2
pipe diameters............................................................................................. G13/AS2 3.3.1

Gutters...................................................................................................................... E1/AS1 5.0

gradients............................................................................................................. E1/AS1 5.3
materials................................................................................................E1/AS1 5.2, Table 6
overflow outlets................................................................................................. E1/AS1 5.5
sizing.....................................................................................E1/AS1 5.1, Figures 15 and 16
thermal movement................................................................................E1/AS1 5.4, Table 7

Gutters, barges, and fascias......... E2/AS1 5.2, 8.1.6, 8.3.9, 8.4.14, 8.5.10, Figures 20 and 64
internal gutters....................................E2/AS1 8.1.6.1, 8.1.6.3, 8.4.16, 8.4.16.3, Figure 52
parallel hidden gutters................................................. E2/AS1 8.1.6.1, 8.4.16.1, Figure 50
valley gutters......................... E2/AS1 8.1.6.1, 8.1.6.2, 8.4.16, 8.4.16.2, Table 8, Figure 51

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

175
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

H
Habitable spaces.......... NZBC/E3.3.1, G5.2.1 (a), G5.3.1, G5.3.3, G6.2, G7.2; G6/AS1 1.0.2

Halls
see Communal non-residential

Halls of residence
see Communal residential

Handicapped people
see People with disabilities

Handrails........................ NZBC/D1.3.3 (j) (k), D1.3.4 (i); C/AS1 3.1.4, 3.3.3, 3.3.6 b), 3.9.8,
6.20.4 c) ; D1/AS1 1.5.2, 1.5.4 b), 1.6.1, 1.7, 5.2.1 g), 6.0, 6.0.1,
6.0.2, Figures 6 and 19
clearances......................................................................................D1/AS1 6.0.7, Figure 26
handrail profiles................................................................D1/AS1 6.0.7 to 6.0.9, Figure 26
height............................................................................................. D1/AS1 6.0.6, Figure 25
horizontal extensions......................................................... D1/AS1 6.0.4, 6.0.5, Figure 25
intermediate handrails.................................................................................... D1/AS1 6.0.2
relevant width................................................................................ D1/AS1 6.0.9, Figure 26
slope............................................................................................................... D1/AS1 6.0.4

Hazards to building elements.................................................................................. F1/VM1 2.7

Hazardous Agents on Site................................................................................................... F1

see also Site investigation
assessment of sites........................................................................................ NZBC/F1.3.1
contaminants.............................. F1/VM1 1.0.2 c, 2.1.2, 2.2.1 g), 2.2.2, 2.3.2, 2.5.1, 2.6.2
2.6.3, Table 2
degradation of building materials .................................................................... F1/VM1 2.7
likely effects on people................................................................................... NZBC/F1.3.2
hazardous agents.................................F1/VM1 1.0.2 c), 2.2.1, 2.3.2, 2.5.1, 2.5.5, Table 2
network utility operators..............................................................................F1/VM1 2.1.1 f)
remedial work.......................................................................................F1/VM1 2.6, Table 3
risk assessment....................................................................... F1/VM1 1.0.2 c), 2.5, 2.5.4

Hazardous Building Materials............................................................................................. F2

see also Glazing
asbestos............................................................................................................. F2/AS1 2.0
brittle materials...............................................................................................NZBC/F2.3.3
harmful concentrations................................................................................... NZBC/F2.3.1
transparent panels...........................................................................................NZBC/F2.3.2

Hazard category
see Fire hazard categories
Hazardous Substances and Processes.............................................................................. F3
Class 1............................................................................................................... F3/VM1 3.1
Class 2..........................................................................F3/VM1 2.0.1, 2.0.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4.1
Class 3.1.......................................................................F3/VM1 2.0.1, 2.0.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4.1
Class 4................................................................................. F3/VM1 2.0.1, 2.0.2, 3.1, 3.4.1
Class 5................................................................................. F3/VM1 2.0.1, 2.0.2, 3.1, 3.4.1
control of adverse effects of ignition................................................................ F3/VM1 3.1
control of ignition.............................................................................................. F3/VM1 3.1
isolation distances............................................................................................. F3/VM1 3.2
methods of construction................................................................................... F3/VM1 3.2
other legislation................................................................................................. F3/VM1 1.0
scope................................................................................................................. F3/VM1 2.0
Amend 11 secondary containment systems...................................................................... F3/VM1 3.3
Sep 2010 security.............................................................................................................. F3/VM1 3.4
explosions.................................................................................................... NZBC/F3.3 (c)
food preparation and utensil washing areas............................................ NZBC/G3.3.2 (b)

176 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

hazardous substances associated

with building services...................................................................NZBC/G10.1, G10.2
protected ignition sources........................................................................... NZBC/F3.3 (d)
release of pressure...................................................................................... NZBC/F3.3 (c)
released during fire.......................................................................NZBC/C3.2 (d), C3.3.10
rendering hazardous materials harmless..................................................... NZBC/F3.3 (e)
sewers and public drains............................................................................. NZBC/F3.3 (b)
signs............................................................................................................. NZBC/F3.3 (g)
surface finishes............................................................................................. NZBC/F3.3 (f)
unauthorised access.................................................................................... NZBC/F3.3 (a)

Amend 11 Hazardous wastes....................................................... G14/VM1 1.4.1 b), 1.9.1, 2.1.4, 2.2.1 b),
Sep 2010 2.2.4, 2.3.6, 2.4.4, 3.3
Health camps
see Communal residential

Hearths................................................. B1/AS3 1.4, 2.2, 2.2.1 to 2.2.3, C/AS1 9.5, Figure 9.3
hearth slabs................................................................................ B1/AS3 2.2, 2.2.1 to 2.2.3

Heat detectors
see Fire safety precautions

Heat transfer solid fuel appliances

limiting heat transfer........................................................................................... C/VM1 1.1

Heating
see Energy Efficiency, Interior Environment

Height
see Building height or Escape height

Height clearances.............................................................. D1/AS1 1.4, 1.4.1, Figure 3, Table 1

Hobs.......................................................................................................................G3/AS1 1.2.1

Hospitals....................................................................... NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv); G1/AS1 Table 4

see also Communal residential

Hostels
see Communal residential

Hot dip galvanising.................................................................... B1/AS2 1.0.5 b), B1/AS3 1.8.6

Hot plates...............................................................................................................G3/AS1 1.2.1

Hot water supply

see Water supplies, hot

Hotels..................................................................................................................... D1/AS1 9.1.1

see also Communal residential

Household units.............................C/AS1 1.3.5, 1.3.6 b) c) e), 2.2.9 a), 3.11.6, 3.15.5, 3.15.8,
3.20.1, 6.1.1, 6.8.1, 6.14.3, 6.14.4, 6.20.1, 7.5.7, 7.9.19,
Amend 11 7.10.6, 7.10.7, A2.1.1 Type 5, Table 6.2; F7/AS1 1.1.2 b),
Sep 2010 1.2.5, 1.3.2; G6/AS1 1.0.2

Housing...................... NZBC/A1 2.0, D1.3.3, E1.3.2, G1.3.5, G2.2, G3.2.1, G3.3.1 (a) to (d),
Amend 11 G3.3.2 (c), G7.2, G12.3.4, G12.3.9, H1.3.2; F4/AS1 Table 1;
Sep 2010 G3/AS1 1.0.1; G9/AS1 1.0; H1/VM1 1.0, 1.2, H1/AS1 1.0, 2.0
detached dwellings...................... NZBC/A1 2.0.2, C3.3.2, C3.3.4, D1.3.2 (i), F6.2, F7.3,
Amend 11 F8.2, G15.2; H1/VM1 1.2
Sep 2010 group dwellings........................................................ NZBC/A1 2.0.4, G8.2; H1/VM1 1.1.2
multi-unit dwellings................................... NZBC/A1 2.0.3, C3.3.2, D1.3.2 (i), F6.2, F8.2,
Amend 11 G8.2, G15.2; H1/VM1 1.1, 1.2, H1/AS1 2.1.2
Sep 2010

HVAC systems....................................................................................................... F7/AS1 1.5.3

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

177
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

I
Identification of non-potable water supply ........................................................G12/AS1 4.2.1
see also Water supplies

Illuminance.................................................................. G7/VM1 1.0; G8/VM1 1.0, G8/AS1 1.0

measurement.................................................................................................G8/VM1 1.0.1
minimum........................................................................................................ G8/AS1 1.0.3

Impact insulation class (IIC)................................................................................... G6/VM1 2.0

In-service history..................................................................................................... B2/VM1 1.1

Industrial buildings..........................NZBC/A1 6.0, D1.3.2 (h), D1.3.3, E3.3.1, G1.3.5, G3.2.1,

G3.3.1 (a) (b), G3.3.2 (b), G3.3.6, G8.2, G9.3.4, G12.3.9,
H1.2 (a); G1/AS1 Table 1; G3/AS1 2.0.1; H1/AS1 1.0.2

Industrial Liquid Waste..................................................................................................... G14

Amend 11 capacity.................................................................................................. NZBC/G14.3.2 (a)
Sep 2010 collection............................................................................................... G14/VM1 1.1.1, 1.4
location of facilities...................................................................................G14/VM1 1.4
contamination of potable water..............................................................NZBC/G14.3.2 (c)
conveyance systems...................................................................................... G14/VM1 2.0
Amend 11 drainage................................................................................................... G14/VM1 2.2
Sep 2010 piping systems...........................................................................G14/VM1 2.3, Table 3
pumps....................................................................................... G14/VM1 2.4, Figure 2
Amend 11 corrosion.............................................................................................G14/VM1 1.5.1, 1.5.2
Sep 2010 disposal...........................................................................G14/VM1 1.1.1, Table 1, Figure 1
location of facilities...................................................................................G14/VM1 1.4
Amend 11 to a natural waterway........................................................................G14/VM1 1.2.1 b)
Sep 2010 to a sewer..................................................... G14/VM1 1.2.1 a), G14/AS1 1.2.1, 1.2.2
disposal systems...........................................................................................NZBC/G14.3.1
hazardous wastes
Amend 11 see Hazardous wastes
Sep 2010 industry types................................................................................G14/VM1 1.2.2, Table 1
materials used in construction.....................................................................G14/VM1 1.5.1
odours.................................................................................NZBC/G14.3.1 (c), G14.3.2 (f)
resource consents.................................................................................. NZBC/G14.3.2 (d)
safety facilities............................................................................................ G14/VM1 3.3.2
security............................................................................................................G14/VM1 1.9
Amend 11 separation of waste...................................................................................... G14/VM1 1.7.1
Sep 2010 storage.................................................................................... G14/VM1 1.1.1, 1.2.1 c), 1.4
containers...............................................................................................NZBC/G14.3.1
location of facilities...................................................................................G14/VM1 1.4
tanks
Amend 11 see Tanks
Sep 2010 treatment................................................. G14/VM1 1.1.1, 1.2, 1.2.2, 1.4, Figure 1, Table 1
location of facilities...................................................................................G14/VM1 1.4
Amend 11
Sep 2010 unauthorised access.............................................................................. NZBC/G14.3.2 (g)
vehicle access........................................................................................ NZBC/G14.3.2 (b)

Inspection chambers
see Maintenance access to drains

Inspection points
see Maintenance access to drains

Insulation
see Fire resistance ratings

Integrity
see Fire resistance ratings

Intellectually handicapped persons

see People with disabilities

178 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Intended Life
see Durability

Intended use................ NZBC/B1.3.1, B1.3.2, D1.3.5 (a), E3.3.5, F1.3.2 (a), F3.3 (f), F4.3.2,
G2.3.1, G3.2.1, G3.3.1 (a), G3.3.6, G5.2.1 (b), G9.2, G11.1 (c),
G11.2, G12.3.5, G15.2

Interface with ancillary control systems................................................................... F7/AS1 1.5

Interior Environment........................................................................................................... G5
accessible reception areas............................................................................. NZBC/G5.3.4
adequate activity space............................................................NZBC/G5.1 (b), G5.2.1 (b)
see also Activity space
enhanced listening systems.............................................................NZBC/G5.3.5, G5.3.6
internal temperature....................................................NZBC/G5.1 (a), G5.2.1 (a), G5.3.1;
G5/AS1 1.0, Tables 1 and 2
unsafe installations........................................................... NZBC/G5.1 (c), G5.2.2, G5.3.2

Interior lighting
see Artificial Light......................................................................................................... G8

Interior linings................................................................................................... G3/AS1 1.6, 2.2

ceilings................................................................................................. G3/AS1 2.1.2, 2.2.3
floors............................................................................G3/AS1 2.2.3, 2.2.4, 2.3.3 to 2.3.6
walls...........................................................................G3/AS1 1.6, 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.2.3, 2.2.4

Interior surfaces..........................................................................G7/AS1 1.0.2 to 1.0.4, Table 1

Intermediate floors
see Floors

Internal Moisture...................................................................................................................E3
concealed spaces................................................................... NZBC/E3.3.6; E3/AS1 3.2.2
condensation...................................................................................E3/AS1 1.0.1, 1.1.5, 1.3
condensation channels...................................................................................... E3/AS1 1.3
energy efficiency..............................................................................................E3/AS1 1.1.5
floor surfaces..................................................................................... NZBC/E3.3.3, E3.3.5
free water overflow......................................................................... NZBC/E3.2 (b), E3.3.2
fungal growth....................................................................... NZBC/E3.2 (a); E3/AS1 1.0.1
overflow............................................................................................................. E3/AS1 2.0
containment........................................................................ E3/AS1 2.0.1, 2.1, Figure 1
floor waste......................................................................................... E3/AS1 2.0.1, 2.2
people with disabilities...................................................................................E3/AS1 3.3.2
steel framing............................................................................................... E3/AS1 1.1.4 d)
thermal break.............................................................................................. E3/AS1 1.1.4 d)
thermal resistance..................................................................... NZBC/E3.3.1; E3/AS1 1.1
materials and installation.......................................................................... E3/AS1 1.1.3
ventilation......................................................................... NZBC/E3.3.1; E3/AS1 1.0.1, 1.2
wall surfaces.......................................................................................NZBC/E3.3.4, E3.3.5
watersplash........................................................................................................ E3/AS1 3.0
basins.........................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
baths..........................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
joints in linings..............................................................................E3/AS1 3.2, Figure 2
lining materials............................................................................. E3/AS1 3.1, Figure 1
showers........................................................... E3/AS1 3.3.1 to 3.3.5, Figures 4 and 5
sinks...........................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
tubs............................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
urinals.......................................................................................................E3/AS1 3.3.6
windows.......................................................................................................... E3/AS1 1.3.1

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

179
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

JKL
Isolating valves...........................................................................................G12/AS1 3.7.1, 5.4.2

Jetties
see Ancillary buildings

Kerbs.................................................................................................. D1/AS1 1.5.4 a), Figure 6

see also Ramps

Kindergartens
see Early childhood centres and Communal non-residential

Kitchens
see Food Preparation and Prevention of Contamination

Kitchen sinks.......................................................................... G13/AS1 3.3.2, Figure 2, Table 2

Laboratory testing....................................................................................................B2/VM1 1.2

Ladders.....................................................................................................................D1/AS1 5.0
see also Stairs and ladders
height..................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.1.2, 5.1.7
individual rung-type ladders............................................... D1/AS1 5.1.1 c), 5.4, Figure 24
clearance..............................................................................................D1/AS1 5.4.1 c)
height....................................................................................................D1/AS1 5.4.1 c)
rungs.................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.4.1 a)
tread width...........................................................................................D1/AS1 5.4.1 b)
width.....................................................................................................D1/AS1 5.4.1 b)
landings.......................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.3.2
length.............................................................................................. D1/AS1 5.1.5, 5.1.7
width........................................................................................................ D1/AS1 5.1.4
location........................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.1.3
rung spacing.................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.1.6
rung-type ladders............................................................... D1/AS1 5.1.1 b), 5.3, Figure 20
clearances............................................................................................D1/AS1 5.3.1 e)
height................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.3.1 d)
landings.................................................................................. D1/AS1 5.3.2, Figure 23
rungs.....................................................................................................D1/AS1 5.3.1 b)
slope.................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.3.1 a)
width.................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.3.1 c)
safety enclosures............................................................ D1/AS1 5.1.2, Figures 21 and 22
step-type ladders..................................................... D1/AS1 5.1.1 a), 5.2, 5.2.1, Figure 19
clearances........................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.2.1 e)
height................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.2.1 d)
horizontal openings.............................................................................. D1/AS1 5.2.1 f)
slope..................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.2.1 a)
treads................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.2.1 b)
width.................................................................................................... D1/AS1 5.2.1 c)
types of ladders.............................................................................................. D1/AS1 5.1.1

Landings...................................................................................NZBC/D1.3.2 (l) (m), D1.3.4 (i)

180 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Landslip...........................................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.2.1 a)

Laundering.................................................. G2; NZBC/G2.2, G2.3.1 to G2.3.4; G2/AS1 1.0

electricity supply.............................................................................................G2/AS1 1.1.2
laundry tubs.................................... E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3; G2/AS1 1.0.1 a), 1.0.2, 1.1.1;
G13/AS1 3.3.2, Figure 2, Table 2
alternative solution.................................................................................. G2/AS1 1.0.3
capacity............................................................................................... G2/AS1 1.0.2 a)
size....................................................................................................... G2/AS1 1.0.2 b)
minimum dimensions.......................................................................G2/AS1 1.2.1, Figure 1
number of facilities............................................................................ G2/AS1 1.3.1, Table 1
overflow..........................................................................................................NZBC/E3.3.2
people with disabilities..........................................NZBC/G2.3.4; G2/AS1 1.2.2, Figure 2
washing machines............................................................................G2/AS1 1.0.1 b), 1.1.2
water supply...........................................................................................G2/AS1 1.1.1, 1.1.2

Lavatories
see Personal Hygiene

Legionella bacteria.............................................................................G12/AS1 6.14.3, HB CS 9

Level access routes..................................................................................................D1/AS1 2.0

protection from falling....................................................................................... D1/AS1 2.3
slip resistance...................................................................................... D1/AS1 2.1, Table 2
width.................................................................................................................. D1/AS1 2.2

Libraries
see Communal non-residential

Lifts............................................... C/AS1 3.12.3, 6.16.1, 6.16.4 b) c), 6.23.3 b) ; D1/AS1 12.0

see also Mechanical Installations for Access
doors.............................................................................................C/AS1 6.19.13, Table 6.1
Fire Service lift control............................................................C/AS1 8.2.5, A2.1.1 Type 15
lift motor room............................................................................C/AS1 3.12.3 e), 6.16.4 c)
lift shafts
see Protected shafts

Light
see Artificial Light, Natural Light, Lighting for Emergency

Light switches............................................................................................... G9/AS1 2.0.1 a) b)

Lighting of access routes............................................................................... D1/AS1 1.5.4, 1.8

Lighting for emergency

see ‘Visibility in Escape Routes’

Amend 11
Sep 2010
Limited area atriums................................................C/AS1 6.22, Figure 6.14, Tables 6.4 to 6.6

Limited area intermediate floors

see Floors

Liquid fuel
see Piped Services, Hazardous Substances and Processes

Loadings
see Design, loadings

Loads
see Structure, loads

Location of heat and smoke detectors..................................................................... F7/AS1 1.3

Low-risk areas........................................................................................................ F4/AS1 1.2.2

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

181
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

M
Maintenance..............NZBC/B2.3.1, D2.3.1 (f), D2.3.4 (c), E1.3.3 (d), E2/AS1 2.5, G10.3.6,
G11.3.4, G12.3.6 (d) (e), G13.3.1 (d), G13.3.2 (d),
G14.3.2 (h), G15.3.2 (c);
normal................................................................................................................ B2/AS1 2.1
regular maintenance........................................................................................ E2/AS1 2.5.1
scheduled...........................................................................................................B2/AS1 2.2

Maintenance access to drains................................................................................G13/AS2 5.7

access chambers.........................................E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 b), 3.7.4, 3.7.5, Figure 12;
G13/AS2 Figure 12
access points.................................E1/AS1 3.7, 3.7.3, 3.7.7, G13/AS2 5.7, Figures 9 to 12
inspection chambers....................................E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 b), 3.7.4, 3.7.5, Figure 11;
G13/AS2 Figure 11
inspection points......................................... E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 b), G13/AS2 5.7, Figure 9
location..........................................................................................................G13/AS2 5.7.4
rodding points................... E1/AS1 3.7.1, 3.7.2 a), Figure 10; G13/AS2 5.7.4 f), Figure 10

Marae
see Housing, group dwellings

Masonry
see Design, masonry
masonry buildings............................................................................................B1/AS3 1.1.1

Masonry tiles............................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.2

anti-ponding boards........................................................................................E2/AS1 8.2.5
details and flashings............................................................... E2/AS1 8.2.6, Figures 23-28
flashings and fixings.................................................................E2/AS1 8.2.4, Tables 20-22
general.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.2.2
installation......................................................................... E2/AS1 8.2.3, Tables 10 and 23
materials.......................................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.2.1
tile profiles............................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.2.1.1
penetrations............................................................................E2/AS1 8.2.7, Figures 29-31

Masonry veneer........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.3.2, 9.2, Table 18

bottom of masonry veneer............................................................................. E2/AS1 9.2.7
concrete bricks.............................................................................. E2/AS1 9.2.5, Figure 73
control joints....................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.2.4
clay bricks.............................................................................E2/AS1 9.2.4.1, Figure 73
general.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.2.2
installation....................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.2.3, Table 23
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.2.1
secondary cladding.........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.2.8
windows and doors.........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.2.6

Means of Escape
see Escape routes, Evacuation time, Exitways, Final exits,
Fire hazard category, Open paths, Safe paths, Safe place, Travel distance

Mechanical Installations for Access.................................................................................. D2

control system...........................................................................................NZBC/D2.3.1 (e)
emergency conditions.................................................................................... NZBC/D2.3.3
escalators..................................................................................................NZBC/D1.3.3 (e)
lifts................................................. NZBC/D1.3.1 (c), D1.3.2 (c), D1.3.4 (c); D1/AS1 12.0
lighting.......................................................................................................NZBC/D2.3.2 (c)
loads..........................................................................................................NZBC/D2.3.1 (a)
location of potentially dangerous equipment................................................ NZBC/D2.3.4
people with disabilities.................................................................................. NZBC/D2.3.5
servicing mechanical installations...............................................................NZBC/D2.1 (b)

182 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Mechanical ventilation
see Ventilation

Medical consultancy rooms...................................................................... NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv)

see also Communal non-residential

Membrane cappings.............................................................................................. E2/AS1 6.5

Metal cappings............................................................... E2/AS1 6.4, 7.4.4, 9.9.10.1, Figure 9

Membrane roofs and decks.................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.5

control joints....................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.7
general.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.2
gutters..........................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.10, Figure 64
installation.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.5
butyl and EPDM....................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.5.2
plywood.................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.5.1
junctions................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.7, Figures 57, 58 and 61-63
with walls.............................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.8.1, Figure 62
limitations.....................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.1, Figure 17A
penetrations.................................................................... E2/AS1 8.5.9, Figures 59 and 60
handrails................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.9.1
plywood substrates.........................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.3
butyl and EPDM.......................................................................................E2/AS1 8.5.4
roof and deck drainage.........................................E2/AS1 8.5.6, Figures 56, 57 and 62-64

Mixing devices
see Water supply, hot

Moisture
see External Moisture, Internal Moisture, Surface Water

Motels.................................................................................................................... D1/AS1 9.1.1

see also Communal residential

Municipal offices....................................................................................... NZBC/D1.3.4 (c) (iv)

see also Commercial buildings

Museums
see Communal non-residential

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

183
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

N
Natural Light......................................................................................................................... G7
awareness of the outside environment...................................... NZBC/G7.1, G7.2, G7.3.2
minimum illuminance......................................................................................NZBC/G7.3.1

Natural ventilation
see Ventilation

Amend 11 Network utility operators................. NZBC/G11.3.6, G13.3.3, G15.3.3, H1.1; F1/VM1 2.1.1 f)
Sep 2010 G14/VM1 1.2.1 a), G14/AS1 1.2.1, 1.2.2
No-sky line condition............................................................................. G7/AS1 1.0.3, Figure 3

Non-potable water supply

see Water supply

Non-return valves...................................................................G12/AS1 Figures 7 to 10, Table 6

Notional boundary.................................... C/AS1 7.3.13 to 7.3.15, 7.5.3 Step 1, 7.7.1, Table 7.4

Nurses’ or Nursing homes

see Communal residential

184 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

O
Obstructions.............................................................................. NZBC/D1.3.2 (b); D1/AS1 1.5
dangerous projections..................................................................... D1/AS1 1.5.4, Figure 6
isolated columns..............................................................................D1/AS1 1.5.5, Figure 7
major projections............................................................................ D1/AS1 1.5.3, Figure 5
minor projections...................................................................D1/AS1 1.5.1, 1.5.2, Figure 4

Occupants.................................................................................... NZBC/D2.3.5 (b), G1.3.3 (e)

Amend 11 occupant densities............................................................ C/AS1 2.3.3, 3.4.5 b), Table 2.2
Sep 2010 occupant load...................................................F7/AS1 1.1.2 a), 2.1.1, F6/AS1 Appendix A
occupant loads – specific requirements
and limitations............................ C/AS1 2.3, 3.3.2, 3.4.5, 3.4.8 c), 3.6.1 a) d), 3.9.11,
3.9.12 b) e), 3.10.1, 3.10.2, 3.12.2 b), 3.15.1 d),
3.16.3 c), 3.17.9 a) Step 1 and Step 2, 4.5.15,
6.3.1, 6.3.2, 6.4.1, 6.20.6 a), 6.20.7 a), 6.20.19,
6.21.5 c), 6.22.2 c) d) f), B4.1.1, Tables 3.1 and 4.1
Occupied spaces..................... C/AS1 3.2.1, 3.3.2 d), 6.6.7, 6.7.4, 6.22.3, Tables 2.1 and 6.2;
G4/AS1 1.1.1, 1.2.1 a); G6/AS1 1.0.1 a)

Odours
see Foul Water, Industrial Liquid Waste, Solid Waste

Offices
see Commercial buildings

Oil fired appliances

installation............................................................................................................C/AS1 9.3
seismic restraint................................................................................................C/AS1 9.3.2

Old people’s homes............................. NZBC/G2.2, G3.2.1, G3.3.1 (a) to (d), G5.2.1 (a) (b),
G5.3.1 to G5.3.3, G5.3.5, G7.2, G12.3.4;
G1/AS1 Table 4; G2/AS1 Table 1; G3/AS1 1.0.1;
G5/AS1 1.0.3, 2.0, Table 3
see also Communal residential buildings

Amend 11 On-site disposal.................................................................................................... G13/VM4 1.0

Sep 2010 scope...............................................................................................................G13/VM4 1.1

Open fires..................................................................................C/AS1 9.5, Figures 9.1 and 9.3

Open paths..........................................................................................................F8/AS1 3.1.1 a)

see Escape routes

Opening windows..................................................................................................... F4/AS1 2.0

Other property...........................C/AS1 4.3.2, 5.3.2 d), 6.1.1, 7.1.1 b), 7.3.1 b), 7.3.15 a), 7.7.1,
7.8.10 a), 7.9.1, 7.9.6 b), 7.9.10 d), Tables 6.1 and 7.3
Outbuildings......................................................... NZBC/A1 7.0. D1.2.1, D1.3.2, D1.3.3 (h) (i),
Amend 11 G1.3.4, G8.2, G12.3.8; G1/AS1 Table 4
Sep 2010

Ovens
see Food Preparation and Prevention of Contamination, cooking

Overflow................................................................................................................... E3/AS1 2.0

containment.............................................................................. E3/AS1 2.0.1, 2.1, Figure 1
floor waste............................................................................................... E3/AS1 2.0.1, 2.2

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

185
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

P
Parapets....................................... E2/AS1 6.0, 9.3.9, 9.4.8, 9.5.5, 9.7.8, 9.8.7, 9.9.10, 9.6.9.8
C/AS1 6.12.7 b), 7.1.2 e), 7.8.1 b), 7.8.2, 7.9.2 b), Figure 7.1
capping materials............................................................................................... E2/AS1 6.3
general................................................................................................................E2/AS1 6.2
limitations........................................................................................................... E2/AS1 6.1
integral surface cappings................................................................................... E2/AS1 6.6
membrane cappings.......................................................................................... E2/AS1 6.5
metal cappings....................................................................................E2/AS1 6.4, Figure 9
parapet-to-wall junctions...................................................E2/AS1 6.4.1, Figures 11-13

Pedestrians
see Access Routes

Penetrations.................................. C/AS1 3.12.3 e), 6.12.4, 6.12.9 d), 6.16.4 e), 6.17.1, 6.17.4,
6.17.5, 6.17.7, 6.18.6 c), 6.18.9, 6.20.13 a)

People with disabilities..............NZBC/F8.3.4; C/AS1 2.4, 3.15.1 e), 3.17.1 e); D1/AS1 1.1.4,
Table 9; E3/AS1 3.3.2; F7/AS1 2.1.2 d) f); F8/AS1 5.0;
G1/AS1 1.1.2, 1.2.2, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, Figures 5 to 9,
Tables 1 and 2; G2/AS1 1.2.2, Figure 2; G3/AS1 1.5.2;
G5/AS1 3.0; G9/AS1 2.0; G12/AS1 8.0
accessible route identification................................................................ F8/AS1 5.0.1 a) b)
accessible routes........................................................................................... G1/AS1 4.1.1
electrical installations..................................................................................... NZBC/G9.3.4
enhanced listening systems.............................................................NZBC/G5.3.5, G5.3.6
facility identification.................................................................................... F8/AS1 5.0.1 b)
food preparation and cooking facilities.......................................................... NZBC/G3.3.5
information and warning signs........................................................ NZBC/F8.2 (d), F8.3.4
listening system identification.........................................................F8/AS1 5.0.3, Figure 7
mechanical installations for access
see Mechanical Installations for Access
personal hygiene facilities.............................................................................. NZBC/G1.3.5
provision of laundering facilities.................................................................... NZBC/G2.3.4
usable water taps...................................................................................G12/AS1 Figure 18
water supply................................................................................................. NZBC/G12.3.9

Pergolas
see Decks and Pergolas

Personal Hygiene..................................................................................... G1; NZBC/G13.1 (a)

see also Sanitary fixtures
absence of facilities.....................................................................................NZBC/G1.1 (b)
access to facilities........................................................................NZBC/D1.3.3 (c), G1.3.5
location of facilities........................................................................................ NZBC/G1.3.4
non-water-borne disposal system........................................................... NZBC/G1.3.2 (h)
overflows from sanitary fixtures.................................................... NZBC/E3.3.2 to E3.3.4
people with disabilities...........................NZBC/G1.3.5; G1/AS1 1.1.2, 1.2.2, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2
privacy............................................................................................................... G1/AS1 6.0
cubicles.......................................................................................G1/AS1 6.2, Figure 11
line of sight.................................................................................G1/AS1 6.1, Figure 10
lobbies........................................................................................................ G1/AS1 6.3
unisex facilities........................................................................................ G1/AS1 1.1.5
privies............................................................................................................. G1/AS1 5.0.2
water-borne disposal system..................................................NZBC/G1.3.2 (g), G13.1 (b)

Piles
see Foundations

186 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Piped Services.................................................................................................................... G10

extreme temperatures.........................................................................NZBC/G10.1, G10.2
gas pipes.......................................................................................... NZBC/G10.3.2, G10.3
hazardous substances..........................................................................NZBC/G10.1, G10.2
identification of piping systems................................................................... NZBC/G10.3.4
isolating devices........................................................................................... NZBC/G10.3.6
piping systems..............................................................................................NZBC/G10.3.1
preventing sound transmission...................................................................G6/AS1 1.0.1 c)
protection against corrosion........................................................................ NZBC/G10.3.3

Pipes
see also Discharge pipes, Discharge stacks, Vent pipes
installation........................................................................................................G11/AS1 4.0
jointing methods........................................................................................... G13/AS1 6.1.1
materials...........................................................................................G13/AS1 2.1.1, Table 1
sizing................................................................................................................. G11/AS1 1.0
pressure ranges......................................................................................... G11/AS1 1.1
flow velocities...................................................................................... G11/AS1 1.4
pressures above 1.5 kPa ..................................................................... G11/AS1 1.3
pressures below 1.5 kPa ..................................................................... G11/AS1 1.2
supports.......................................................................................... G13/AS1 6.2.1, Table 7
thermal movement.......................................................................................... G13/AS1 6.3
watertightness.................................................................................................G13/AS1 7.0

Placement of detectors............................................................................................ F7/AS1 1.4

Places of assembly...................................................................................................D1/AS1 8.0

see also Communal non-residential

Plumbing systems
see Foul Water

Plywood sheet.......................................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.8

corners............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.4
external...............................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.4.1, Figure 122
Internal............................................................................... E2/AS1 9.8.4.2, Figure 123
finishes............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.9
flashing material.......................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.5, Tables 20-22
installation....................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.8.3, Table 23
fixings.................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.8.3.1, Table 24
joints..........................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.3.2, Figures 118-121
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.8.1
materials....................................................................... E2/AS1 9.8.2, Figures 118 and 119
parapets and enclosed balustrades................................................................ E2/AS1 9.8.7
soffit details..................................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.6, Figure 114
windows and doors.........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.8.8
windows: direct fixed......................................................... E2/AS1 9.8.8.1, Figure 115
windows: with cavity.........................................................E2/AS1 9.8.8.2, Figure 116

Pools
see Swimming pools
Amend 11
Sep 2010

Potable water supply

see Water Supplies

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

187
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Pressed metal tiles...................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3

barges.............................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.3.9, Figure 8
fascias............................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.3.9, Figure 8
fixings..............................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.7
flashings....................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.8, Table 7, Figures 34-37
gutters............................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.3.9, Figure 8
installation.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.2
limitations.......................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.1, Figure 37
metal substrate...............................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.4
aluminium..............................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.4.3
choice of metal...................................................................... E2/AS1 8.3.4.1, Table 20
steel.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.4.2
roof penetrations............................................................E2/AS1 8.3.10, Figures 53 and 55
roof pitch....................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.3.5, Figure 32
tiles..................................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.3.3
underlay........................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.3.6, Table 23

Pressure limiting valves........................................... G12/AS1 5.3.2, 6.2.1 c), Figure 8, Table 6

Pressure reducing valves............................. G12/AS1 5.3.2, 6.2.1 b), Figures 7 and 9, Table 6

Pressure regulators................................................................................................. G11/AS1 2.1

Pressure relief valves......................................................................G12/AS1 6.4.1, 6.6, Table 6

installation.................................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.6.5
relief valve drains.............................................................. G12/AS1 6.7, Figures 12 and 13

Pressurisation of safe paths

see Fire safety precautions

Principal entrance..................................................................................................... D1/AS1 1.1

Prisons
see Communal residential
Privacy
see Personal Hygiene

Privies
see Personal Hygiene, privies

Profiled metal roof claddings.................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4

allowance for expansion.............................................. E2/AS1 8.4.10, Table 16, Figure 39
fixings: corrugated and trapezoidal profiles.................................. E2/AS1 8.4.8, Figure 39
requirements............................................................E2/AS1 8.4.8.1, Tables 14 and 15
fixings: trough profile.................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.9, Figure 40
requirements.........................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.9.1
flashing details..................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.12, Figures 43-48
flashing requirements....................... E2/AS1 8.4.11, Tables 21 and 22, Figures 41 and 42
fixing flashings....................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.11.1, Table 21, Figure 6
general.............................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.2
internal gutters............................................................. E2/AS1 8.4.16, 8.4.16.3, Figure 52
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 8.4.1
materials..........................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.3
aluminium..............................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.3.3
choice of metal...................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.3.1, Table 20
steel.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.3.2
parallel hidden gutters.................................................. E2/AS1 8.4.16, 8.4.16.1, Figure 50
profile closure................................................................................................ E2/AS1 8.4.15
profiles........................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.4, Figure 38
roof penetrations........................................E2/AS1 8.4.17, Table 17, Figures 21 and 53-55
roof pitch.........................................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.5
stopends.......................................................................................E2/AS1 8.4.13, Figure 49
structure....................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.6, Tables 11, 12 and 13
turn-downs at gutters................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.14
underlay........................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.7, Table 23
valley gutters................................................... E2/AS1 8.4.16, 8.4.16.2, Table 8, Figure 51

188 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Profiled metal wall claddings ..................................................................... E2/AS1 9.6, Table 3

(horizontal and vertical)
fixings......................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.6, Table 20, Figure 39
flashings.........................................................E2/AS1 9.6.7, Figures 5 and 6, Table 21
general......................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.2
horizontal profiled metal on cavity...........................................................E2/AS1 9.6.9
barges............................................................................. E2/AS1 9.6.9.4, Figure 97
bottom of cladding......................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.9.5, Figure 98
cavity battens...................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.9.2, Table 23
corners........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.9.3, Figure 96
installation........................................................................ E2/AS1 9.6.9.1, Table 23
parapets and balustrades..............................E2/AS1 9.6.9.8, Figures 101 and 102
penetrations..................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.9.6, Figures 53 and 69
windows..........................................................E2/AS1 9.6.9.7, Figures 99 and 100
limitations................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.6.1, Figure 38
maintenance.............................................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.4
materials...................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.3
aluminium.........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.3.3
choice of metal................................................................. E2/AS1 9.6.3.1, Table 20
steel..................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.3.2
profiles.................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.5, Figure 38
vertical profile – direct fixed.....................................................................E2/AS1 9.6.8
barges............................................................................. E2/AS1 9.6.8.2, Figure 92
bottom of cladding......................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.8.3, Figure 93
corners........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.8.4, Figure 94
installation........................................................................ E2/AS1 9.6.8.1, Table 23
penetrations..................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.8.5, Figures 53 and 69
windows......................................................... E2/AS1 9.6.8.6, Figures 95 and 100

Protected paths
see Escape routes

Protected shafts..........................................................C/AS1 6.10.4 a), 6.12.4, 6.16, Figure 6.8

Protecting other property

see Spread of Fire, Internal Moisture, Water Supplies

Protection of gas supply......................................................................................... G11/AS1 7.0

contamination................................................................................................... G11/AS1 7.1
low pressures................................................................................................... G11/AS1 7.2

Protection of water supplies...................................................................................G12/AS1 3.4

air gaps.............................................................................................................G12/AS1 3.5
backflow prevention devices...........................................................................G12/AS1 3.6
atmospheric vacuum breakers..................... G12/AS1 3.6.2 d) 3.6.4 d), 3.7.1, Table 2
double check valves.................................................. G12/AS1 3.6.2 b), 3.7.2, Table 2
pressure vacuum breakers...........................G12/AS1 3.6.2 c), 3.6.4 c), 3.7.1, Table 2
reduced pressure zone devices.................. G12/AS1 3.6.2 a), 3.6.4 a), 3.7.2, Table 2
cross connections.....................................................................................G12/AS1 3.1, 3.2
hazard....................................................................................................... G12/AS1 3.3
installation................................................................................ G12/AS1 3.6.3, 3.6.4, 3.7.1
testing...............................................................................................................G12/AS1 3.7

Purpose groups....... C/AS1 1.3.2 Step 3, 2.1.3, 2.2.1, 2.3.2, 3.4.2 b), 4.2.7 a) c), 4.5.1, 4.5.2,
Amend 11 4.5.8, 4.5.13, 5.8.4, 7.5.10, 7.8.5, 7.9.6, 7.11.3, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 4.1,
Sep 2010 6.1 to 6.3 and 7.5
active purpose groups...............................C/AS1 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3, 4.4.1 Step 2, Table 4.1
concessions for multiple purpose groups..................................C/AS1 5.6.7, 5.6.8, 5.6.11
fire hazard category 4.......................................................................... C/AS1 2.2.10, 5.6.11
primary purpose group.................. C/AS1 2.2.2, 2.2.4, 2.2.7, 4.2.7 c), 4.4.1 Step 1, 4.5.5,
6.10.1, 6.11.1, 6.11.2
residential community care..................................................................................C/AS1 2.4
sleeping purpose groups.............. C/AS1 3.9.12 f), 3.15.1 c), 3.15.5, 4.4.1 Step 2, 4.5.11,
5.3.2 a), 5.7.9, 6.1.2 b), 7.7.1, 7.8.10 a), 7.9.1, 7.9.16,
7.10.5 c), A1.2.1 Type 16, Tables 4.1 and 7.4

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

189
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Purpose groups (continued)

CL.............C/AS1 2.2.3, 2.2.6, 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 c), 3.16.1, 3.16.3, 3.16.7,
3.17.1 c), 3.17.9 a), 6.3, 6.20.7, 6.20.17, 6.20.18 d), 6.20.20, 6.22.1,
A2.1.1 Type 16, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3; F7/AS1 1.3.5 b)
CM............ C/AS1 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 c), 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3, 3.15.4, 3.17.1 c),
6.4, 6.20.17, 6.20.20, 6.22.1, 7.9.10 b), Figure 3.20, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3,
6.2 and 6.3; F7/AS1 1.3.5 b)
CO ........................C/AS1 3.9.3 b), 3.15.1 b), 3.16.5 to 3.16.7, 4.3.3, 6.5, A2.1.1 Type 16,
Tables 2.1, 3.1, 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3
CS ......... C/AS1 2.2.3, 2.2.6, 2.2.7, 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 c), 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3,
3.15.4, 3.18.1, 6.3.1, 6.20.7, 6.20.17, 6.20.20, 6.22.1, A2.1.1 Type 16,
Figure 3.20, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3; F7/AS1 1.3.5 b)
IA................. C/AS1 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 b), 3.10.2, 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3, 3.15.4,
4.3.3, 6.10, 6.22.1, A2.1.1 Type 16, Figure 3.20, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3 and 6.3
ID...................... C/AS1 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 b), 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3, 4.3.3, 6.11,
A2.1.1 Type 16, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3 and 6.3
IE.................. C/AS1 4.3.3, 6.9, 6.20.20, 7.3.1 a), 7.3.14, 7.5.3 Step 1, 7.9.6 a), 7.9.10 a),
Tables 2.1 and 6.2
SA........................ C/AS1 2.2.3, 2.2.9, 2.3.6, 3.5.2 b), 3.5.3 b), 3.5.4 b), 3.9.12 f), 3.9.14,
3.11.6, 3.15.1 c), 3.15.5 to 3.15.7, 3.16.9, 3.17.9 b) d), 3.18.1, 4.5.11,
5.7.6 b), 5.8.2 c), 6.7, 6.9.6, 6.14.3, 6.16.5, 6.18.7, 6.20.20, 6.22.1,
7.1.1 b), 7.3.1 a), 7.3.14, 7.5.3 Step 1, 7.5.7, 7.5.9, 7.5.10, 7.9.6 a),
7.9.10 a), A2.1.1 Type 4, Type 5, Type 7, Figures 3.21 and 7.7,
Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.1 to 6.3 and 7.5; F7/AS1 1.1.2 b),
1.2.5, 1.3.5 a) b), 2.1.2 d)
SC......................C/AS1 2.3.6, 3.9.12 f), 3.9.14, 3.11.6, 3.16.8, 3.17.4, 3.17.9 b) d), 4.5.11,
5.7.6 b), 5.8.2 c), 6.6, 6.9.6, 6.11.3, 6.20.8 b), 6.20.20, 7.1.1 b),
7.3.1 a), 7.3.14, 7.5.3 Step 1, 7.9.6 a), 7.9.10 a), 7.11.1, 8.1.2,
Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.1 to 6.3 and 7.5;
F7/AS1 1.3.5 a) b), 2.1.2 e), 2.2.3
SD......................C/AS1 2.3.6, 3.9.12 f), 3.9.14, 3.11.6, 3.16.8, 3.17.4, 3.17.9 b) d), 4.5.11,
5.7.6 b), 5.8.2 c), 6.6, 6.9.6, 6.11.3, 6.20.8 b), 6.20.20, 7.1.1 b), 7.3.1 a),
7.3.14, 7.5.3 Step 1, 7.9.6 a), 7.9.10 a), 7.11.1, 8.1.2, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3,
6.1 to 6.3 and 7.5; F7/AS1 1.3.5 a) b), 2.1.2 e), 2.2.3
SH......................... C/AS1 1.3.3, 1.3.4, 2.2.8, 2.2.9 b), 3.5.2 b) to 3.5.4 b), 3.15.1, 3.20.1,
4.3.3, 5.9.4 c), 6.8, 6.14.3, 6.14.4, 6.20.1, 7.1.1 b), 7.3.1 a), 7.3.14,
7.5.3 Step 1, 7.5.7, 7.5.9, 7.5.10, 7.8.5, 7.9.19, 7.10.6, 7.10.8, 7.11.4,
Figure 7.7, Tables 2.1, 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3
SR.............................. C/AS1 1.3.5, 2.2.9 a), 3.5.2 b), 3.5.3 b), 3.5.4 b), 3.11.6, 3.15.1 c),
3.15.5 to 3.15.7, 3.16.9, 3.17.9 b) d), 3.18.1, 3.20.1, 4.5.11, 5.7.6 b),
5.8.2 c), 6.8, 6.9.6, 6.14.3, 6.14.4, 6.16.5, 6.18.7, 6.20.1, 6.20.20,
6.22.1, 7.1.1 b), 7.3.1 a), 7.3.14, 7.5.3 Step 1, 7.5.7, 7.5.9, 7.5.10,
7.8.5, 7.9.6 a), 7.9.10 c), 7.9.19, 7.10.6 to 7.10.8, A2.1.1 Type 4,
Type 5, Type 7, Figures 3.21 and 7.7, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3,
6.1 to 6.3 and 7.5; F7/AS1 1.1.2 b), 1.2.5, 1.3.5 a) b)
WF.............................. C/AS1 3.5.2 a), 3.15.1 b), 5.8.4, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3
WH........................................ C/AS1 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 c), 3.15.1 b), 5.8.4,
Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3
WL................ C/AS1 3.5.2 a), 3.5.3 a), 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 c), 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3, 3.15.4, 3.18.1,
6.22.1, Figure 3.20, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3
WM........................... C/AS1 3.5.2 a) to 3.5.4 a), 3.5.6 c), 3.15.1 b), 3.15.3, 3.15.4, 6.11.1,
Figure 3.20, Tables 2.1, 3.1 to 3.3, 6.2 and 6.3

190 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

QR

Qualifications................................ E2/AS1 1.5, 8.2.2, 8.4.2, 8.5.2, 9.2.2, 9.3.4.1, 9.6.2, 9.9.2

Radioactive substances
see Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 7

Ramps.................................................................. C/AS1 3.1.4, 3.9.2, D1/AS1 1.3.1, 1.3.2, 3.0

accessible ramps.....................................................D1/AS1 3.1.3, 6.0.3 to 6.0.4, Figure 9
slopes................................................................................................... D1/AS1 Table 3
width............................................................................................................D1/AS1 3.2
intermediate landings....................................................................... D1/AS1 3.3.1, Table 5
length....................................................................................................... D1/AS1 3.3.3
width........................................................................................................ D1/AS1 3.3.2
kerb ramps........................................................................................D1/AS1 3.4, Figure 10
landings............................................................................................ D1/AS1 3.3, Figure 25
service ramps..................................................................... D1/AS1 3.1.2, Figure 8, Table 4
slip resistance................................................................................... D1/AS1 3.1.4, Table 2
slopes........................................................................................................D1/AS1 3.1, 3.1.1
Amend 11
Sep 2010

Reflectances...................................................................................................... G7/AS1 Table 2

high..........................................................................................G7/AS1 1.0.3, 1.0.4, Table 1
medium...................................................................................G7/AS1 1.0.3, 1.0.4, Table 1

Refuge areas
see Fire safety precautions

Refuse
see Solid waste

Reinforcing steel................... B1/AS3 1.3.2 b) c), 1.4, 1.6, 1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.8.5, 2.2.1 a), Table 1

Relevant boundaries....................... C/AS1 2.2.8, 5.3.2 a), 5.4.1 g), 5.7.6 a), 5.9.4 c), 7.1.2 d),
7.3.1 b), 7.3.4 to 7.3.6, 7.3.9, 7.3.12 b), 7.3.15 a),
7.4.2, 7.5 to 7.8, 7.10.5, 7.10.6, 7.11.4, Figures 7.3,
7.7 to 7.9, Tables 7.1 to 7.5

Relief valve drains

see Cold water expansion valves, Temperature relief valves,
Temperature/pressure relief valves

Retaining walls....................................................................................................... F4/AS1 1.2.5

Retirement villages
see Communal residential

Rodding points
see Maintenance access to drains

Roof claddings...................................................................................................E2/AS1 3.2, 8.0

general................................................................................................................ E2/AS1 8.1
fixings........................................................................................E2/AS1 8.1.4, Table 20
gutters..................................................................................... E2/AS1 8.1.6, Figure 20
hidden gutters.................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.1.6.1
internal gutters.................................................................... E2/AS1 8.1.6.1, 8.1.6.3
valley gutters..........................................................E2/AS1 8.1.6.1, 8.1.6.2, Table 8
limitations................................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.1.2
maintenance............................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.1.3
projecting eaves............................................................................... E2/AS1 8.1.3.1

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

191
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Roof claddings (continued)

roof penetrations.............................E2/AS1 8.1.7, Tables 9 and 17, Figures 21 and 22
underlays.................................................................................. E2/AS1 8.1.5, Table 23
underlay support.............................................................................. E2/AS1 8.1.5.1
weathertightness......................................................................................E2/AS1 8.1.1

Roof/wall junctions................................................................................................... E2/AS1 5.0

apron flashings.......................................................................E2/AS1 5.1, Table 7, Figure 7
barges..................................................................................................E2/AS1 5.2, Figure 8
fascias.................................................................................................E2/AS1 5.2, Figure 8
gutters.................................................................................................E2/AS1 5.2, Figure 8

Roofs........................ C/AS1 3.14.3, 3.14.4, 3.14.6 a), 3.16.7, 5.1.1 b), 6.12.1, 6.12.7, 6.18.5 c),
6.20.5, 6.20.11, 7.2.1 b), 7.8.1, 7.9.1 to 7.9.9, Figures 7.1 and 7.11;
car parking and storage............................................................. C/AS1 7.8.2, 7.9.16, 7.9.17
eaves and projections (fire safety)............................................ C/AS1 2.2.8, 7.8.3 to 7.8.5
exterior surface finishes.................................................................................. C/AS1 7.11.1
fire spread...................................................................................... C/AS1 7.1.1, 7.9.1, 7.9.2
fire venting................................................. C/AS1 4.2.4, 5.4.1 i), 5.5.3, 6.3.2 b), 7.8.10 a)
open sided buildings............................................... C/AS1 7.8.8, 7.8.9, 7.8.10, Figure 7.10
roof spaces............................................ C/AS1 6.12.8, 6.18.5 b) c), 6.18.7, 6.18.8, 6.18.10

Rubbish chutes
see Solid Waste

Run-off
estimation of run-off......................................................................................... E1/VM1 2.0
Rational Method............................................................................................. E1/VM1 2.0.1
rainfall intensity....................................................... E1/VM1 2.2, E1/AS1 Appendix A
run-off coefficient......................................................................... E1/VM1 2.1, Table 1
slope correction..........................................................................E1/VM1 2.1.3, Table 2
time of concentration....................................................................... E1/VM1 2.2.1, 2.3
alternative procedure...............................................................E1/VM1 2.3.6, 2.3.7
catchment slopes............................................................................... E1/VM1 2.3.7
open channel flow..............................................................................E1/VM1 2.3.5
pipe flow............................................................................... E1/VM1 2.3.4, Table 1
time of entry.......................................................................................E1/VM1 2.3.2
overland flow........................................................... E1/VM1 2.3.2 b), Figure 1
road channel flow.................................................... E1/VM1 2.3.2 b), Figure 2
time of network flow...............................................................................E1/VM1 2.3.3

192 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

S
S rating
see Fire resistance ratings

Safe paths........................................................................ F7/AS1 1.3.1, 1.3.4; F8/AS1 3.2.3 b)

see also Escape routes

Safe place.................. NZBC/F7.3, F8.3.3 (a); C/AS1 3.1.1, 3.7.1, 3.16.4, 3.16.8, 6.1.1, 6.22.7,
A2.1.1 Type 13 and Type 16

Safe trays
see Storage water heaters

Safe water temperatures

see Water Supplies, hot

Safety from Falling................................................................................................................ F4

see also Barriers
Amend 11 accidental falls....................................................................................................NZBC/F4.2
Sep 2010 children...........................................................NZBC/F4.3.4 (f), F4/AS1 1.2.1, Figures 1-4
gates.......................................................................................................... NZBC/F4.3.5 (a)
impact of people.......................................................................................NZBC/F4.3.4 (d)
low risk areas.................................................................................................. F4/AS1 1.2.2
Amend 11 pressure of people....................................................................................NZBC/F4.3.4 (d)
Sep 2010 opening windows............................................................................................... F4/AS1 2.0
Amend 11 provision of barriers........................................................................................ NZBC/F4.3.1
Sep 2010 retaining walls................................................................................................. F4/AS1 1.2.5
Amend 11
roofs with permanent access.........................................................................NZBC/F4.3.2
Sep 2010 seats on decks................................................................................. F4/AS1 1.2.4, Figure 6
Amend 11 swimming pools................................................................................. NZBC/F4.3.3, F4.3.5
Sep 2010 fencing......................................................................................................... F4/AS1 2.7

Safety of users
see Hazardous Agents on Site, Hazardous Building Materials,
Hazardous Substances and Processes, Safety from Falling, Construction
and Demolition Hazards, Lighting for Emergency, Warning Systems, Signs

Sanitary appliances....................................................... NZBC/G13.2; G12/AS1 8.0.1, Table 1;

G13/AS1 1.0.2, 3.3.1, Table 2
washing machines.....................................................................G13/AS1 Figure 2, Table 2

Sanitary fixtures............... NZBC/E3.3.2 to E3.3.4, G1.3.1, G1.3.2, G12.2, G12.3.3, G12.3.5,

G12.3.6 (b), G13.2; G12/AS1 6.12.1, 6.14.2, Figure 20,
Tables 1 and 3; G13/AS1 1.0.2, 3.3.1, Table 2
see also Basins, Bidets, Personal Hygiene, Showers, Urinals, WC pans
acceptable standards........................................................................................ G1/AS1 2.6
access
pans..........................................................................................................G1/AS1 4.2.7
people with disabilities..................................................................... G1/AS1 1.2.2, 4.1
basins....................................................................................G1/AS1 3.3, Figure 9, Table 1
bidets..................................................................................................................G1/AS1 2.4
communal sanitary fixtures.............................................................................. G1/AS1 3.4
construction and installation............................................................................. G1/AS1 2.0
locations.................................................................................................. G1/AS1 3.0, 4.2.1
non-flushing sanitary fixtures........................................................................... G1/AS1 5.0
privies...................................................................................................... G1/AS1 5.0.2
number of fixtures required........................................ G1/AS1 1.0, Figure 1, Tables 1 to 4
safe water temperatures................................................................. G12/AS1 6.14.1, 6.14.2
sanitary towel disposal............................................................ G1/AS1 1.1.5 b), 1.2, 1.2.2
showers................................................ G1/AS1 2.5, 4.2.3, 4.2.4, Figures 5 and 8, Table 2
soil fixtures........................................................................G1/AS1 3.1.1, 3.2.1, 3.2.2, 3.3.1
see also WC pans
space dimensions................................................. G1/AS1 3.1, 4.2.2, 6.2.1, Figures 4 to 9
toilets
see WC pans
types of fixtures required........................................................ G1/AS1 1.0, Tables 1 and 2

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

193
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Sanitary fixtures (continued)

urinals......................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3, 6.1.1, Table 1
bowl urinals......................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.1, 2.3.3, 2.3.5
continuous wall urinals............................................................. G1/AS1 2.3.1, Figure 3
discharge system................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.2
flushing systems......................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.5 to 2.3.8, Table 5
manually operated............................................................................. G1/AS1 2.3.8
stall urinals..................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.1, 2.3.5
surface finishes...................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.4
trough urinals............................................................................. G1/AS1 2.3.1 to 2.3.3

Sanitation
see Personal Hygiene

Schools
see Communal non-residential

SDI
see Smoke developed index

Seating................ C/AS1 2.3.5, 3.3.2 k), 3.3.6 c), 3.9.3, 3.9.4, 3.9.7 to 3.9.11, 3.16.5, 3.16.6,
6.5.1, Figures 3.13 to 3.15, Tables 2.2 and 3.4
open air auditoriums (purpose group CO)................................C/AS1 3.16.5, 3.16.6, 6.5.1

Seats on decks........................................................................................F4/AS1 1.2.4, Figure 6

Security..........................................................NZBC/G14.3.2 (g); G14/VM1 1.9, G14/AS1 1.1

Serviceability limit states

see Structure, limit states

Services and facilities

see Personal Hygiene, Laundering, Food Preparation and Prevention of
Contamination, Ventilation, Interior Environment, Airborne and Impact Sound,
Natural Light, Artificial Light, Electricity, Piped Services, Gas as an Energy Source,
Water Supply, Foul Water, Industrial Liquid Waste, Solid Waste

Sewers
see Foul Water
SFI
see Spread of flame index

Sheds
see Outbuildings

Shops
see Commercial buildings

Showers..................... E3/AS1 3.2, 3.2.2, 3.3, Figures 4 and 5; G1/AS1 2.5, Figures 5 and 8,
Table 2; G13/AS1 Table 2

Shrinkage
see Structure, loads

Signs......................................................................... F8; NZBC/C2.3.3, D1.3.4 (a), D2.3.2 (d);

C/AS1 3.3.6 a), 3.17.11 d), D1/AS1 1.1.1
escape routes.............................................................................NZBC/F8.2 (a), F8.3.3 (a)
exit............................................................................................................... F8/AS1 3.0
alternative exit.................................................................................F8/AS1 3.2.3 b)
arrows........................................................................ F8/AS1 3.2.2, 3.3.2, Figure 3
backgrounds........................................................................................F8/AS1 3.3.3
colours................................................... F8/AS1 2.1, 3.4, 3.5.3 a) b), 4.1.3, Table 3
illumination............................................................................................. F8/AS1 3.5
externally illuminated...................................................................F8/AS1 3.5.2
internally illuminated....................................................................F8/AS1 3.5.3
lighting supply.............................................................................. F8/AS1 3.5.5
self-luminous................................................................................ F8/AS1 3.5.4
lettering..................................................................................F8/AS1 3.3.1, Table 4
location................................................................................................... F8/AS1 3.1
no exit signs.................................................................................... F8/AS1 3.2.3 a)
wording................................................................................................... F8/AS1 3.2

194 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Signs; escape routes (continued)

fire safety..............................................................................................F8/AS1 4.0, 6.4
call points................................................................................ F8/AS1 4.1, Figure 4
colours................................................................................................. F8/AS1 4.1.3
fire and smoke control doors................................................................. F8/AS1 4.2
lifts....................................................................................................... F8/AS1 6.4.1
stairs for Fire Service personnel.......................... F8/AS1 6.4.3, Figures 12 and 13
storage heights................................................................... F8/AS1 6.4.2, Figure 11
hazard signs........................................................................................................ F8/AS1 6.0
dangerous goods......................................................................................... F8/AS1 6.1
class 1.................................................................................................. F8/AS1 6.1.4
class 2.................................................................................................. F8/AS1 6.1.4
class 3.................................................................................................. F8/AS1 6.1.4
class 5.................................................................................................. F8/AS1 6.1.4
class 7.................................................................................................. F8/AS1 6.1.4
colour..........................................................................................F8/AS1 6.1.4 a
radiation warning symbol.......................................... F8/AS1 6.1.4 a), Figure 8
colour................................................................................................... F8/AS1 6.1.3
layout................................................................................................... F8/AS1 6.1.3
lettering..................................................................................... F8/AS1 6.1.3, 6.1.4
location................................................................................................ F8/AS1 6.1.4
electrical hazards..........................................................................F8/AS1 6.2, Figure 9
escalators and moving walks..................................................... F8/AS1 6.6, Figure 15
floor loadings............................................................................................... F8/AS1 6.3
buildings............................................................................. F8/AS1 6.3.1, Figure 10
lifts.......................................................................................................F8/AS1 6.3.2
passenger lifts.................................................................................F8/AS1 6.3.2 a)
service lifts......................................................................................F8/AS1 6.3.2 b)
hazardous substances and processes................................................... NZBC/F3.3 (g)
identification of hazards............................................................NZBC/F8.2 (c), F8.3.2
machine rooms........................................................................... F8/AS1 6.5, Figure 14
non-potable water...................................................................... F8/AS1 6.7, Figure 16
lighting for emergency................................................................. NZBC/F6.3.2, F8.3.3 (b)
people with disabilities.............................................. NZBC/F8.2 (d), F8.3.4; F8/AS1 5.0
access symbol.......................................................................F8/AS1 5.0.2 c), Figure 6
layout.........................................................................................F8/AS1 5.0.2, Figure 5
listening systems.......................................................................F8/AS1 5.0.3, Figure 7
readability........................................................................................................ NZBC/F8.3.1
lettering type and proportions.......................................................F8/AS1 1.0, Table 1
safety........................................................................................................ F8/AS1 2.0, 3.2.1
caution.................................................................. F8/AS1 2.2.2, 6.1.2, 6.2.2, Figure 2
colours............................................................................................ F8/AS1 2.1, Table 3
layout........................................................................................................... F8/AS1 2.2
prohibition and stop signs................................................F8/AS1 2.2.1, 6.7.1, Figure 1
safe condition signs................................................................................. F8/AS1 2.2.3
safety symbols............................................................................................ F8/AS1 2.3
visibility..........................................................................................NZBC/F8.3.1, F8.3.3 (b)

Single escape routes

see Escape routes

Sinks................................................. E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3; G3/AS1 1.1.5, G13/AS1 Table 2

see also Basins, Cleaners’ sinks, Kitchen sinks

Site characteristics..................................................................................... B1/VM4 Appendix A

Site investigation..................... B1/VM4 3.5.1, 4.7.1, Appendix A; F1/VM1 1.0.3, 2.0, Figure 1
analysis.............................................................................................................. F1/VM1 2.4
assessment..............................................................................F1/VM1 1.0.3, 2.5, Figure 2
detailed investigation................................................. B1/VM4 A1.3; F1/VM1 1.0.2 c), 2.3
history and records............................................................................................F1/VM1 2.1
preliminary investigation............................................ B1/VM4 A1.2; F1/VM1 1.0.2 b), 2.2
previous industrial use of site........................................................... F1/VM1 2.1.1, Table 1
recording information......................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.4

Site specific considerations.....................................................................................B2/VM1 1.2

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

195
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Siteworks
see Design, siteworks

Slip resistance............................................... D1/VM1 1.0, D1/AS1 2.1, 3.1.4, 4.1.4 c), Table 2

Slopes....................................................................................................................... D1/AS1 1.2

acceptable slopes............................................................................ D1/AS1 1.2.1, Figure 2
changes in level....................................................................................... D1/AS1 1.3, 1.3.1
cross falls........................................................................................................D1/AS1 1.2.2

Slope stability........................................................................................................B1/VM4 1.0.4

Small chimneys
see Chimneys

Smoke.................................................................NZBC/C3.3.1, C3.3.2, C3.3.4, C3.3.7, C3.3.8

Smoke alarms............................................................................................... F7/AS1 3.1.1, 3.1.2

alarm system.................................................................... F7/AS1 3.2.1, 3.2.2, 3.2.3, 3.2.4
location.................................................................................................. F7/AS1 3.3.1, 3.3.2
maintenance.................................................................................................... F7/AS1 3.4.1

Smoke control................................................. C/AS1 3.11.9, 6.19.1, 6.19.12, 6.19.13, Table 6.1

see also Fire safety precautions
car parking.......................................................................................C/AS1 6.10.4 b), 6.10.6
doors
see Doors
in air handling systems
see Fire safety precautions
intermediate floors.......................C/AS1 3.4.6 a), 3.9.13 d), 4.5.17, 4.5.18, 6.21.3, 6.21.4
limited area atriums........................................................... C/AS1 4.5.18, 6.21.4 b), 6.22.1,
6.22.7, 6.22.8, Figure 6.14, Table 6.4
long corridors................................................................................ C/AS1 6.13.1, Figure 6.5
mechanical smoke extract
see Fire safety precautions
natural smoke venting
see Fire safety precautions
pressurisation
see Fire safety precautions
smoke reservoirs..............................................C/AS1 6.22.2 f), 6.22.5, 6.22.7 to 6.22.10,
A2.1.1 Type 10 and Type 11,
Figure 6.14, Table 6.4
systems................................C/AS1 3.4.6 a), 3.4.8 d), 3.9.13 d), 4.5.17, 6.21.5, 6.23.3 a),
A2.1.1 Type 9, Type 10 Type 11 Type 17, B1.1.1,
B2.2.1 Step 2, B3.1.1
ventilation.................................................................... C/AS1 3.14.7, 6.9.6 to 6.9.8, 6.10.6
vertical safe paths......................................................................... C/AS1 6.9.11, Figure 6.1

Smokecells.................................................. C/AS1 3.4.6 b), 4.2.2, 6.1.2 a), 6.4.1, 6.9.1, 6.12.4

Smoke detectors
see Fire safety precautions

Amend 11 Smoke developed index (SDI)............................C/AS1 6.18.2 d), 6.20.3, 6.20.5, 6.20.7 c) d),
Sep 2010 C4.1.1 d), Table 6.2

Smoke separations.........................C/AS1 3.8.3 b), 3.11.1, 3.17.12 b), 6.1.2 c), 6.3.1, 6.6.4 b),
6.6.6 b), 6.9.6 e), 6.9.11, 6.10.1, 6.12.3, 6.12.4, 6.12.9,
6.13.1, 6.19.1, Table 6.1
glazing...............................................................................................................C/AS1 5.8.9
smoke seals........................................................................C/AS1 6.12.9, 6.19.2 b), 6.19.4

Smoke spread
see Smoke control

Snow
see Structure, loads

196 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Socket outlets
see Electricity, people with disabilities

Soil fixtures..............................................................................G1/AS1 3.1.1, 3.2.1, 3.2.2, 3.3.1

see also WC pans

Soil properties..............................................................B1/VM4 1.0.5, 2.0.6, 2.0.7, Appendix A

Soil shrinkage and expansion........................................................ B1/VM4 3.1.2, 3.4.3, A1.2.1

Soils
adverse moisture conditions..........................................................................B1/VM4 1.0.2

Solar water heaters............................................................................................................... G12

installation....................................................................................................... G12/AS2 5.0
pipe installation........................................................................................ G12/AS2 5.3
pipe insulation.......................................................................................... G12/AS2 5.4
weathertightness.................................................. G12/AS2 5.2, Table 4, Figures 2–9
wetback water heaters..............................................................................G12/AS2 5.1
location..................................................................................................... G12/AS2 4.0, 4.1
solar orientation and inclination................................................ G12/AS2 4.2, Figure 2
maintenance and durability..............................................................................G12/AS2 7.0
durability....................................................................................................G12/AS2 7.2
maintenance.............................................................................................. G12/AS2 7.1
materials.......................................................................................................... G12/AS2 2.0
material selection.........................................................G12/AS2 2.1, Tables 1, 2 and 3
requirements................................................................................................... G12/AS2 3.0
operating and safety devices................................................................... G12/AS2 3.4
protection from frosts............................................................... G12/AS2 3.6, Figure 1
protection from Legionella bacteria......................................................... G12/AS2 3.5
sizing of systems...................................................................................... G12/AS2 3.3
solar controller.......................................................................................... G12/AS2 3.2
solar water heaters and components.................................................... G12/AS2 3.1.1
scope................................................................................................................G12/AS2 1.0
exclusions..................................................................................................G12/AS2 1.2
structural support limitations....................................................................G12/AS2 1.1
structural support............................................................................................ G12/AS2 6.0
collector support rails.................................................G12/AS2 6.5, Figures 17 and 18
elevated solar collectors parallel to the roof................... G12/AS2 6.4, Figures 14–16
general requirements...................................................... G12/AS2 6.2, Figures 10–13
mounting collectors at different pitch to roof cladding........................... G12/AS2 6.6,
Amend 11 Figures 19 and 20
Sep 2010 scope................................................................................................................G12/AS2 6.1

Solid fuel appliances....................................................................................................................

domestic ........................................................................................................... B1/AS3 2.0
installation............................................................................................................ C/AS1 9.1
seismic restraint................................................................................................ C/AS1 9.1.2

Solid plastering..........................................................................................................B2/AS1 3.3

Solid Waste......................................................................................................................... G15

chutes...................................................................................... C/AS1 3.12.1, 6.16.5, 6.16.6
collection.......................................................................................... NZBC/G15.2, G15.3.1
holding.............................................................................................. NZBC/G15.2, G15.3.1
sewer............................................................................................................ NZBC/G15.3.3
storage............................................................ C/AS1 3.12.1, G15/AS1 1.0.1, 3.0, Figure 1
alternative solution....................................................................................G15/AS1 3.1
capacity..................................................................................................G15/AS1 1.0.1
location...................................................................................................G15/AS1 2.0.1
floors................................................................................................. G15/AS1 3.0.2
walls................................................................................................. G15/AS1 3.0.3
water supply......................................................................................G15/AS1 3.0.7
windows................................................................................. G15/AS1 3.0.4, 3.0.6
space required........................................................................................G15/AS1 1.0.2
vehicle access......................................................................................G15/AS1 3.0.10
ventilation..........................................................................G15/AS1 1.0.3, 3.0.8, 3.0.9
temperature.............................................................................................NZBC/G15.3.1 (d)
waste disposal units.................................................................................... NZBC/G15.3.3

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

197
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

waste (rubbish) chutes......................................... NZBC/G15.3.2; G15/AS1 4.0, Figure 2

cleaning................................................................................................. G15/AS1 4.0.3
odours.............................................................................................. NZBC/G15.3.2 (d)
restricted access.................................................................................... NZBC/G15.3.2 (g)
spread of fire................................................................................... NZBC/G15.3.2 (e)

Sound insulation tests

see Airborne and Impact Sound

Sound transmission class (STC)

see Airborne and Impact Sound

Spandrels....................................................................C/AS1 7.1.2 e), 7.9.12, 7.9.13, Figure 7.2

Specified intended life

see Durability

Spread of Fire
automatic fire suppression systems.............................................................. NZBC/C3.3.6
see also Fire safety precautions
automatic smoke control systems................................................................. NZBC/C3.3.8
see also Smoke control
concealed spaces........................................................................................... NZBC/C3.3.4
protect adjacent property.............................................................NZBC/C3.1 (c), C3.2 (c)
resistant to spread of fire...................................................................NZBC/C2.3.3, C3.3.1
rubbish chutes.............................................................................................. NZBC/G15.3.2
safeguard the environment.......................................................... NZBC/C3.1 (d), C3.2 (d)
safety while evacuating............................................................................... NZBC/C3.1 (a)
see also Means of Escape

Amend 11 Spread of flame index (SFI)................................C/AS1 6.18.2 d), 6.20.3, 6.20.5, 6.20.7 c) d),
Sep 2010 C4.1.1 b), Table 6.2

Sprinklers
see Fire safety precautions

Stability
see Fire resistance ratings, Structure

Stadiums
see Communal non-residential

Staircase
see Stairways

Stairs
see Stairways

Stairs and ladders........C/AS1 3.1.4, 3.4.1 a), 3.4.7, 3.9.14, 3.15.9, Figures 3.6, 3.10 and 3.21
curved and spiral stairs.................................................................. C/AS1 3.3.5, 3.4.7 a) b)
external stairways.............. C/AS1 3.14.6 c), 3.14.7, 3.15.4, 3.15.7, Figures 3.22 and 3.23
stairways................... C/AS1 3.3.3, 3.3.4, 3.3.6 b), 3.4.5, 3.11.8, 3.12.3, 3.15.6, 5.8.2 c),
6.9.3, 6.9.10, 7.5.7

Stairways.................................................. NZBC/D1.3.2 (f) to (i), D1.3.4 (g) (h); D1/AS1 4.0

see also Access Routes, accessible routes and ladders
accessible stairs.................................................................... D1/AS1 4.1.7, 4.1.8 b), 4.2.1,
6.0.1 to 6.0.4, Figure 11, Tables 6 to 8
common stairs...............................................D1/AS1 4.1.8, 4.2.1, Figure 11, Tables 6 to 8
curved stairs............................................................................D1/AS1 4.1.3, 4.4, Figure 17
landings........................................D1/AS1 4.3, 4.3.1, 4.3.6 c), 4.6.2 c), Figures 14 and 25
direction changes............................................................................. D1/AS1 Figure 16
length......................................................................................... D1/AS1 4.3.4, 4.3.6 c)
maximum rise............................................................................ D1/AS1 4.3.2, Table 7
obstructions............................................................................ D1/AS1 4.3.5, Figure 15
width.........................................................................................................D1/AS1 4.3.3
lighting........................................................................................D1/AS1 4.6, 4.6.2, Table 8
pitch......................................................................................D1/AS1 4.1, Figure 11, Table 6
pitch lines............................................................... D1/AS1 4.1.3, 4.4.1, 4.4.2, 4.5.1, 4.5.2

198 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

private stairs......................................................... D1/AS1 4.6.2, Figure 11, Tables 6 and 8

main......................................................................................D1/AS1 Figure 11, Table 6
minor...........................................................................D1/AS1 4.5.1, Figure 11, Table 6
risers..............D1/AS1 4.1, 4.1.2, 4.1.3, 4.1.8, 4.4.2, 4.5.1, Figures 11 and 12, Table 6
secondary...................................................................D1/AS1 4.5.1, Figure 11, Table 6
service stairs.........................................................D1/AS1 4.5.1, Figure 11, Tables 6 and 8
slip resistance............................................................................... D1/AS1 4.1.4 c), Table 2
spiral stairs............................................................................................ D1/AS1 4.1.3, 4.4.1
treads................................ D1/AS1 4.1, 4.1.2 to 4.1.7, 4.5.1, 4.6, Figures 11 to 13, Table 6
tapered treads........................................................................... D1/AS1 4.4, Figure 17
visibility . ...........................................................D1/AS1 4.3.6, 4.6, Table 8; G8/AS1 1.0.3
width................................................................D1/AS1 4.2, 4.2.1, 4.4.1, 4.5.2, 4.5.3, 6.0.1
winders..............................................................................................D1/AS1 4.5, Figure 18

Standard test
see Test methods

Steel
see Design, steel

Storage water heaters.........................NZBC/H1.3.4; G12/AS1 6.2, 6.3.1, 6.6.3, 6.6.5, 6.7.2,

6.6.4, 6.8 to 6.11, Table 5; H1/AS1 5.0
see also Water heaters
drain pipes............................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.11.3 c)
open vented...................................................................... G12/AS1 6.3.2, Figures 6 and 7
free outlet type............................................................................ G12/AS1 6.1.2, 6.4.2
mains pressure supply.....................................................G12/AS1 6.2.1, Figure 8, Table 5
tank supply................................................................ G12/AS1 6.1.1, Figure 6, Table 5
safe trays...........................................................................................G12/AS1 5.2.3, 6.11.3
seismic restraint...........................................................................G12/AS1 6.11.5, Figure 4
unvented
see Storage water heaters, valve vented
valve vented........................................................................... G12/AS1 6.3 to 6.7, Figure 8

Storage water tanks

see Tanks

Strainers (filters)................................................................................................. G12/AS1 6.2.3

Structural fire endurance rating (S)

see Fire resistance ratings

Structural integrity
see Structure, Structural Stability During Fire

Structural Stability During Fire

consequential collapse................................................................................... NZBC/C4.3.3
fire hazards......................................................................................................NZBC/C4.3.1
fire intensity.....................................................................................................NZBC/C4.3.1
fire load............................................................................................................NZBC/C4.3.1
fire resistance........................................................................NZBC/C4.3.1, C4.3.2, C4.3.3

Structural stability
see Fire resistance ratings

Structure.................................................................................................................................B1
building instability.............................................................................................. NZBC/B1.1
collapse..............................................................................................................NZBC/B1.2
damage...............................................................................................................NZBC/B1.2
deflections..........................................................................................................NZBC/B1.2
demolition.......................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.6
design
concrete......................................................................................................B1/VM1 3.0
drains
see Drains
foundations
Amend 11 see Foundations
Sep 2010 loadings...................................................................................................... B1/VM1 2.0
earthquake................................................................................ B1/AS3 1.9, Table 2
limit state..................................................................................... B1/VM1 2.2.4, 7.1
Amend 11
Sep 2010

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

199
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Structure (continued)
masonry........................................................ B1/VM1 4.0, B1/AS1 2.0, B1/AS3 1.3.3
siteworks.................................................................................................. B1/VM1 10.0
steel............................................................................................................B1/VM1 5.0
strength reduction factor.............................. B1/VM4 2.0.1, 3.5.1, 4.7, Tables 1 and 4
timber....................................................................................B1/VM1 6.0, B1/AS1 3.0
see also Timber barriers
windows
see Windows
failure.................................................................................................................. NZBC/B1.1
limit states
serviceability limit state..................................................NZBC/B1.3.1, B1.3.2, B1.3.5
ultimate limit state...........................................................NZBC/B1.3.1, B1.3.2, B1.3.5
loads...................................................................................................... NZBC/B1.2, B1.3.3
creep.........................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
cyclic loads...............................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
differential movement..............................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
dynamic loads...........................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
earth pressure..........................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
earthquake................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
seismic resistance of building services.............................................. B1/VM1 14.0
explosion..................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
liquid.........................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
shrinkage..................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
snow.........................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
wind..........................................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.3
sitework.............................................................................................. NZBC/B1.3.6, B1.3.7
stability..........................................................................NZBC/B1.3.6, B2.3.1; D1/AS1 1.6
tanks...............................................................................................G12/AS1 5.2.7, Figure 4
seismic restraint................................................................................... G14/VM1 2.3.2
temporary support..........................................................................................NZBC/B1.3.5
vibrations............................................................................................................NZBC/B1.2

Stucco..................................................................................................B1/AS1 5.0, E2/AS1 9.3

bottom of stucco........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.3.8, Figure 75
decorative attachments................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.3.10
finishes............................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.3.7
installation.......................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.4
general................................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.3.4.1
movement control joints.......................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.4.2
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.3.1
non-rigid plaster backings...............................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.5
installation of building wrap.................................................. E2/AS1 9.3.5.1, Table 23
support..................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.5.2
rigid plaster backings......................................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.6
fibre cement sheet backing...................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.6.2
plywood backing...................................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.6.1
parapets and enclosed balustrades................................................................E2/AS1 9.3.9
stucco-topped enclosed balustrades................................. E2/AS1 9.3.9.1, Figure 117
structure................................................................................................................ AS1 9.3.2
stucco cladding system.................................................E2/AS1 9.3.3, Table 23, Figure 74
windows and doors...................................................................... E2/AS1 9.3.11, Figure 76

Subsidence....................................................................................................B1/VM4 A1.2.1 (a)

Suites
see Firecells

Surface finishes..........................................................C/AS1 6.1.2 e), 6.20, Tables 6.2 and 6.3

ceilings.................................................. C/AS1 6.20.3, 6.20.5, 6.20.6, 6.20.11, 6.20.15 a)
exceptions.......................................................................................................C/AS1 6.20.4
exterior surfaces.........................................................................C/AS1 7.1.2 c), 7.8.6, 7.11
flooring and floor coverings...................................C/AS1 6.20.8 to 6.20.10, 6.20.14, C2.1
wharenui........................................................................C/AS1 3.3.2 h), 3.4.2 e), Table 2.2

200 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Surface Water.......................................................................................................................... E1
see also Run-off, drains
2% probability storm
{50 year return period}............................................................................. NZBC/E1.3.1
10% probability storm
{10 year return period}..............................................................................NZBC/E1.3.2
drainage systems.....................................................................................NZBC/E1.3.3

Suspended flexible fabrics........................... C/AS1 6.20.1, 6.20.16 to 6.20.19, C3.1, Table 6.2

Swimming pools
see Safety from Falling

T
Tanks
Amend 11 industrial liquid waste............................................................ G14/VM1 1.4.1 b), 1.4.2, 3.0
Sep 2010 seismic restraint....................................................................................G14/VM1 3.2.1
water tanks............................................................................................ G12/AS1 5.2, 6.2.1
access..................................................................................... G12/AS1 5.2.5, Figure 4
covers.................................................................................................... G12/AS1 5.2.4
location...................................................................................................G12/AS1 5.2.1
overflow pipes........................................................................ G12/AS1 5.2.2, Figure 4
Amend 11 safe trays................................................................................ G12/AS1 5.2.3, Figure 4
Sep 2010 seismic restraint......................................................................G12/AS1 5.2.7, Figure 4
structural support....................................................................G12/AS1 5.2.7, Figure 4
water storage tanks...................................................................................G12/AS1 5.1

Taverns
see Communal non-residential

Temperature

see Electricity, Energy Efficiency, Interior Environment, Outbreak of Fire,

Piped Services, Solid Waste, Structure, load, Water Supplies

Temperature control
see Interior Environment, interior temperature

Temperature/pressure relief valves........................................G12/AS1 6.4.1, Figure 8, Table 6

installation.................................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.6.5
relief valve drains.............................................................. G12/AS1 6.7, Figures 12 and 13

Test methods................................................................................................ C/AS1 Appendix C

fire properties of external wall cladding systems..............................................C/AS1 C8.1
fire resistance.....................................................................................................C/AS1 C6.1
Amend 11 fire resisting closures......................................................................................... C/AS1 C7.1
Sep 2010 flame barriers.....................................................................................................C/AS1 C9.1
Amend 11 flammability of floor coverings..........................................................................C/AS1 C2.1
Sep 2010 flammability of membrane structures...............................................................C/AS1 C3.1
flammability of suspended flexible fabrics........................................................C/AS1 C3.1
Amend 11 non-combustibility of materials.........................................................................C/AS1 C5.1
Sep 2010 properties of lining materials.............................................................................C/AS1 C4.1

Theatres................................................................................................................ NZBC/G5.3.5
see also Communal non-residential

Thermal break.................................................................................................... E3/AS1 1.1.4 d)

Thermal resistance (R-value)........................ E3/AS1 1.1; H1/VM1 1.4, H1/AS1 2.1.1, 2.2, 2.3
alternative solution...........................................................................................E3/AS1 1.1.5
materials and installation................................................................................ E3/AS1 1.1.3

Thermostats...............................................................................................G12/AS1 6.3.1, 6.5.1

Thresholds.............................................................................................................D1/AS1 1.3.2

Timber.......................................................................................................................B2/AS1 3.2
see also Design, timber, Timber weatherboards

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

201
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Timber barriers..............................................................................B1/AS1 1.2, 9.0, B1/AS2 1.0

see also Barriers and Safety from Falling
alternative details............................................................................................... B1/AS2 2.7
balusters.........................B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.2.1, 2.2.2, 2.3, 2.4.1, 2.7.1, 2.7.2, Figures 2 to 4,
Tables 1 to 3 and 5
connections...............................................B1/AS2 1.0.5 b) c), 2.2.2, 2.3.3 to 2.3.9, 2.5.2,
2.5.3, 2.7.2, Figures 2 to 4, Tables 3 and 4
construction....................................................................................................... B1/AS2 2.0
dimensions of timber...................................................................................... B1/AS2 1.0.4
exposed to the weather.................................................................................. B1/AS2 1.0.5
joists...................................................................................................... B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.3.8
blocking..................................................................... B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.3.4, 2.3.6, 2.3.8
boundary joists........................................... B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.3.2, 2.3.4, 2.3.5, Figure 4
end joists..............................................................B1/AS2 2.3.2, 2.3.4, 2.3.6, Figure 4
intermediate joists............................................ B1/AS2 2.3.2, 2.3.3, Figure 3, Table 3
materials..........................................................................................................B1/AS2 1.0.3
moisture content............................................................................................. B1/AS2 2.6.1
palings.......................................................................................................B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.5
rails........................................................................................................................................
bottom rails...................................................... B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.4, 2.5.1, 2.7.2, Table 5
top rails............................................B1/AS2 2.1.1, 2.2, 2.3.1, 2.5.1, 2.5.3, 2.7.1, 2.7.2,
Figure 1, Tables 1 and 2

Timber connections.......................................................................................B1/AS2 1.0.5 b) c)

Timber weatherboards............................................................................................. E2/AS1 9.4

finishes............................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.4.9
fixings........................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.3.1, Table 24
horizontal weatherboards..................................................................E2/AS1 9.4.1.3, 9.4.4
external corners......................................................E2/AS1 9.4.4.4, Figures 77 and 78
fixings.................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.4.3, Table 24
horizontal laps........................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.4.4.1
internal corners.................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.4.5, Figure 79
joints......................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.4.4.2
installation....................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.3, Table 23
limitations........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.4.1
horizontal weatherboards........................................................ E2/AS1 9.4.1.3, Table 3
vertical weatherboards............................................................ E2/AS1 9.4.1.2, Table 3
weatherboard profiles........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.1.1
materials.......................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.2, Table 23
parapets and enclosed balustrades................................................................E2/AS1 9.4.8
vertical weatherboards...................................................................................E2/AS1 9.4.5
corners (external and internal)...............................E2/AS1 9.4.5.3, Table 7, Figure 80
fixings.................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.5.2, Table 24
laps........................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.4.5.1
windows in cavity walls................................................... E2/AS1 9.4.7, Figures 85 and 86
windows in direct fixed weatherboards................................ E2/AS1 9.4.6, Figures 81-84

Time-share accommodation
see Communal residential

Toilets
see Personal Hygiene, WC Pans

Toxic substances
see Hazardous Substances and Processes, Class 6

Transport terminals
see Commercial buildings

Travel distance................................................................. NZBC/C2.3.1 (d), C2.3.2, C3.3.1 (a)

Tunnels
see Ancillary buildings

Turnstiles
see Doors

202 25 M ay 20 07 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

U
Ultimate limit states
see Structure, limit states

Universities
see Communal non-residential

Unprotected areas................................... C/AS1 3.14.3, 3.14.6, 5.1.1 b), 7.1.2 d), 7.3, 7.4.1 a),
7.4.2, 7.5.2 to 7.5.6, 7.5.8, 7.6.4, 7.7.1, 7.7.3, 7.7.5,
Step 2 and Step 3, 7.8.9, 7.8.10 c), 7.9.10, 7.9.11,
7.9.13, Figures 7.3 to 7.5, Tables 7.2 to 7.4
fire resisting glazing (Type B).........................................................C/AS1 5.8.2 a), 7.4.1 a),
7.4.2 to 7.4.4, Figure 7.4, Table 7.1
small openings (Type A).......................................... C/AS1 7.4.1 a), 7.4.2, 7.4.4, Figure 7.4

uPVC pipe...............................................................................................................G13/AS3 1.0

Urinals..................................E3/AS1 3.3, 3.3.6; G1/AS1 2.3, 6.1.1, Table 1; G13/AS1 Table 2

bowl urinals................................................................................ G1/AS1 2.3.1, 2.3.3, 2.3.5
continuous wall urinals.................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.1, Figure 3
discharge system........................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.2
flushing systems................................................................. G1/AS1 2.3.5 to 2.3.8, Table 5
manually operated.................................................................................. G1/AS1 2.3.8
stall urinals........................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.1, 2.3.5
surface finishes.............................................................................................. G1/AS1 2.3.4
trough urinals.................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.3.1 to 2.3.3

Utensil washing...................................................................................................... G3/AS1 1.1.1

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 25 M ay 20 07

203
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

V
Vacuum relief valves........................................................................................ G12/AS1 Table 6

Vehicles.............................................NZBC/D1.1, D1.2.2, D1.3.1 (d) (e), D1.3.5, G14.3.2 (b);

Amend 11 D1/AS1 10.0, G14/VM1 1.8, 2.1.5; G15/AS1 3.0.10
Sep 2010 access...................................................................................................G14/VM1 1.8, 2.1.5
car parking areas.............................................................................................. D1/AS1 10.1
accessible car parking spaces...................................................... D1/AS1 10.1, 10.2.1
commercial vehicles.................................................................................... D1/AS1 11.0.2
loading spaces............................................................................................... D1/AS1 11.0.2

Vent pipes................... G12/AS1 6.3.2, 6.8; G13/AS1 5.2, Figures 5 to 8, 10 and 12, Table 5;
G13/AS2 Figures 5 and 6
diameter......................................................................... G12/AS1 6.8.2, G13/AS1 Table 6
fixture vent pipes......................... G13/AS1 5.2, Figures 5 to 8, 10 and 11, Tables 5 and 6
gradient............................................................................................................G13/AS1 5.4
height........................................................................................................ G12/AS1 6.8.2 d)
installation......................... G12/AS1 6.9.1; G13/AS1 5.5 to 5.7, Figures 5 to 8, 10 and 11
insulation...................................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.8.3
relief vent pipes................................................................................ G13/AS1 5.6, Figure 7
termination....................................................G12/AS1 6.8.2 c); G13/AS1 5.7.3, Figure 12

Amend 11 Ventilation.......................................... G4; NZBC/H1.3.1 (b); C/AS1 6.9.6; E3/AS1 1.0.1, 1.2;
Sep 2010 airflow control.........................................NZBC/H1.3.1 (b); H1/AS1 3.0, G4/AS1 1.5.1 b)
air handling systems.................................................................................. G4/AS1 1.3.1 b)
air purity....................................................................................NZBC/G4.3.1; G4/VM1 2.0
bacteria, pathogens and allergens................................................................. NZBC/G4.3.2
balconies, bridges and open stairways.......................................................... C/AS1 3.14.7
car park........................................................................................................... G4/AS1 1.5.4
combined natural and mechanical.....................................................................G4/AS1 1.4
Amend 11 contaminated air
Sep 2010 discharge systems............................................................................... G4/AS1 1.5.1 f)
disposal.................................................................................................... NZBC/G4.3.4
removal.................................................................................................... NZBC/G4.3.3
cross-ventilation for car parking.......................................................... C/AS1 6.10.4, 6.10.6
Amend 11 drains......................................................................... G13/AS2 4.0, Figures 4 to 6, Table 3
Sep 2010 extract ventilation........................................................................................G4/AS1 1.5.1 c)
fixed combustion appliances......................................................................... NZBC/G4.3.5
flues............................................................................................................ G4/AS1 2.3, 2.4
gas burning appliances.....................................................................................C/AS1 9.2.2
gas-fuel appliances........................................................................................... G4/AS1 2.0
another solution.......................................................................................... G4/AS1 3.0
draught diverters..................................................................................... G4/AS1 2.3.2
flue construction........................................................................................ G4/AS1 2.3
flue location on dwellings.......................................................................... G4/AS1 2.4
Amend 11 mechanical ventilation................................................................................ G4/AS1 2.2
Sep 2010 natural ventilation........................................................................................G4/AS1 2.1
maximum occupancy........................................................................................ NZBC/G4.2
mechanical ventilation systems............................NZBC/C3.3.7, G4.3.2; G4/AS1 1.5, 2.2
Amend 11 natural............................................................................................ G4/AS1 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1
Sep 2010 household units and accommodation units with one external wall...........G4/AS1 1.3
natural smoke ventilation
see Fire safety precautions
number of air changes................................................................................... NZBC/G4.3.1
oil fired appliances............................................................................................C/AS1 9.3.2
Amend 11 outdoor air supply..........................................................NZBC/G4.3.1; G4/AS1 1.5.1 a) d)
Sep 2010 passive stack ventilators.................................................................................G4/AS1 1.3.7
positive and negative pressure...................................................................... G4/AS1 1.5.5
prevention of internal moisture....................................................................... NZBC/E3.3.1
Amend 11 rate.................................................................................................................G4/VM1 1.0.1
Sep 2010 recirculated air systems..............................................................................G4/AS1 1.5.1 e)
safe paths.......................................................................................... C/AS1 6.9.6 to 6.9.10
solid fuel appliances.......................................................................................... C/AS1 9.1.2
Amend 11 trickle ventilators............................................................................................ G4/AS1 1.3.9
Sep 2010 ventilation rate.................................................................................................. G4/VM1 1.0

204 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

Vermin-proofing.................................................................................................. E2/AS1 9.1.8.3

Vibrations
see Structure

Visibility in Escape Routes......................................................................................... F6/AS1

duration............................................................................................................. F6/AS1 1.6
documentation.................................................................................................. F6/AS1 1.7
equipment......................................................................................................... F6/AS1 1.8
illuminance........................................................................................................ F6/AS1 1.3
installation......................................................................................................... F6/AS1 1.8
location.............................................................................................................. F6/AS1 1.2
maintenance...................................................................................................... F6/AS1 1.8
method of measurement.................................................................................. F6/AS1 1.4
modifications to AS 2293.1: 2005 and AS 2293.3: 2005............. F6/AS1 Appendix B
modifications to NZS 6104............................................................ F6/AS1 Appendix C
light output........................................................................................................ F6/AS1 1.5
Amend 11 scope..................................................................................................................F6/AS1 1.1
Sep 2010 start-up.............................................................................................................. F6/AS1 1.5

W
Walls.......................NZBC/B2.3.1 (a), C3.3.1, C3.3.5, E2.3.2, E2.3.3, E3.3.4, E3.3.5, G6.3.1;
C/AS1 5.3.1, 5.7.2, 6.10.6, 6.12.1, 6.12.6, 6.16.2, 6.18.5 c), 6.20.3,
6.20.4 d) f), 6.20.5, 6.20.6, 6.20.11, 6.20.15 a), 7.8.9,
7.9.5, 7.9.18, Table 6.2;
cavities and concealed spaces...................................C/AS1 6.18.4, Figures 6.11 and 6.12
curtain walls.................................................................... C/AS1 6.18.4, 7.9.14, Figure 6.11
external walls................................................................................................. NZBC/E2.3.2
see also Unprotected areas
floor/wall junctions.......................................................................... G6/AS1 1.0.3, Figure 5
internal/external wall junctions....................................................... G6/AS1 1.0.3, Figure 4
surface finishes...............................................................................................NZBC/C3.3.1
theatre proscenium walls......... C/AS1 6.3.1, 6.3.2 f), 6.19.9, 6.19.10, 6.19.11, Figure 6.13
wall assemblies............................................................................... G6/AS1 1.0.3, Figure 2

Wall/Roof junctions
see Roof/wall junctions

Wall claddings........................................................................................................... E2/AS1 3.3

air seals.......................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.6, Figure 81
barriers to airflow.............................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.4, Table 23
bottom of cladding......................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.3, Table 18, Figure 65
balconies, decks and roofs.................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.3.6
bottom of other wall claddings............................................. E2/AS1 9.1.3.3, Table 18
concrete slabs.................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.3.1, Figure 132
ground level timber framing.................................................. E2/AS1 9.1.3.5, Table 18
masonry veneer clearances.................................................. E2/AS1 9.1.3.2, Table 18
openings to garages............................................. E2/AS1 9.1.3.4, Table 18, Figure 65
building wrap...................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.7, Table 23, Figure 71
building wrap to wall openings...................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.5, Figure 72
drained cavities............................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.8
cavity battens........................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.1.8.4
limitations.............................................................................................. E2/AS1 9.1.8.1
requirements.......................................... E2/AS1 9.1.8.2, Table 23, Figures 66 and 67
vermin-proofing....................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.8.3, Figure 66
wall framing behind cavities.................................................................. E2/AS1 9.1.8.5
general................................................................................................................ E2/AS1 9.1
limitations........................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.1, Table 3
maintenance.................................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.2
penetrations.................................................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.9
inter-storey junctions............................................................E2/AS1 9.1.9.4, Figure 70
other cavity penetrations...................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.9.2
penetrations through cavities................................................................ E2/AS1 9.1.9.1
pipes and service penetrations..............................E2/AS1 9.1.9.3, Figures 68 and 69

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

205
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Wall claddings (continued)

windows and doors........................................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10
closed cell foam tape...........................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.7
head flashings....................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.10.4, Table 7, Figure 71
jamb flashings........................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.6, Table 7
scope....................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.1
treatment of opening.......................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.10.2, Figure 72
window heads.................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.10.3, Figure 71
window sills............................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.5, Table 7

Warehouses
see Industrial buildings

Warning Systems.................................................................................................................. F7
see also Alarm systems
combined fire detection and warning system................................................... NZBC/F7.3

Wash-down areas.................................................................................................... G3/AS1 2.3

Washing machines
see Sanitary appliances

Waste chutes
see Solid Waste

Waste disposal units..............................................NZBC/G15.3.3; G13/AS1 Figure 2, Table 2

Waste pipes
see Discharge pipes, Pipes

Water
see External Moisture, Foul Water, Internal Moisture, Surface Water,
Water Supplies

Water heaters........................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.1, Table 5

installation...................................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.11
instantaneous water heaters....................................................................... G12/AS1 6.1.1,
solar water heaters.................................................................G12/AS1 6.1.1, 6.15, Table 5
storage water heaters
see Storage water heaters
wet back water heaters................................................................G12/AS1 6.13, Figure 15

Water main................................................................................... G12/AS1 3.1.1, 3.2.1 b), 5.1.1

Water seals.......................G1/AS1 2.1.1 c), Figure 2; G13/AS1 1.0.3, 3.2.1, Figure 1, Table 1,
G13/AS2 3.3.1 d)

Water splash............................................................................................................. E3/AS1 3.0

basins...............................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
baths.................................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
lining materials.................................................................................... E3/AS1 3.1, Figure 1
joints in linings.....................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2, Figure 2
showers.................................................................. E3/AS1 3.3.1 to 3.3.5, Figures 4 and 5
sinks.................................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
tubs...................................................................................................E3/AS1 3.2.2, Figure 3
urinals..............................................................................................................E3/AS1 3.3.6

Water Supplies................................................................................................................... G12

access for maintenance......................................................................... NZBC/G12.3.6 (d)
backflow prevention devices................................................................. NZBC/G12.3.6 (e)
cold..................................................................................................................G3/AS1 1.1.4
Amend 11 drinking water.................................................................................................. NZBC/G12.2
Sep 2010 energy efficiency...................................................................................NZBC/H1.2, H1.3.4
hot............................................................................ G3/AS1 1.1.4, Figure 1; G12/AS1 6.0
mixing devices
tempering valves............................................................G12/AS1 6.14.2, Figure 16
pipe sizes................................................................................... G12/AS1 6.12, Table 4
safe water temperatures.........................................................................G12/AS1 6.14
isolation of system................................................................................. NZBC/G12.3.6 (e)
leakage....................................................................................................NZBC/G12.3.6 (c)
laundries.................................................................................................G2/AS1 1.1.1, 1.1.2
mains..................................................................................... G12/AS1 3.1.1, 3.2.1 b), 5.1.1

206 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing

 Index NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK

non-potable water.................................................................NZBC/G12.3.2; G12/AS1 4.1

outlet identification..................................................................G12/AS1 4.2.1, Figure 3
people with disabilities................................................................................ NZBC/G12.3.9
Amend 11 potable water.....................................................NZBC/G12.3.1, G12.3.6 (a), G14.3.2 (c);
Sep 2010 G12/AS1 3.0; G14/VM1 1.6.3
pressure vessels...................................................................NZBC/G12.1 (b), G12.3.7 (a)
sanitary appliances.......................................NZBC/G12.2, G12.3.3, G12.3.5, G12.3.6 (b)
sanitary fixtures..............................NZBC/G12.2, G12.3.3, G12.3.4 G12.3.5, G12.3.6 (b)
solid waste areas............................................................................... G15/AS1 3.0.7, 4.0.3
water storage vessels................................................................... NZBC/G12.3.7, G12.3.8
see also Storage water heaters
water temperature......... NZBC/G12.1 (b) (c), G12.3.3 to G12.3.5, G12.3.7 (b), G12.3.8

Water supply systems................................................................... G12/VM1 1.0, G12/AS1 5.0

installation....................................................................................................... G12/AS1 5.2
anchor points.......................................................................................... G12/AS1 7.1.2
electrochemical compatibility................................................................ G12/AS1 7.1.1
in concrete or masonry..........................................................................G12/AS1 7.3.3
pipe supports............................................................................................ G12/AS1 7.1
spacing................................................................................ G12/AS1 7.1.3, Table 7
pipes below ground . .............................................................................G12/AS1 7.3.2
protection from damage............................................................................G12/AS1 7.3
protection from freezing............................................................................G12/AS1 7.2
protection from frosts........................................................................... G12/AS1 3.6.3
maintenance facilities..................................................................................... G12/AS1 5.2
materials............................................................................................. G12/AS1 2.0, Table 1
pressure limitations........................................................................... G12/AS1 2.2.2 a)
temperature limitations..................................................................... G12/AS1 2.2.2 a)
pipe size..............................................................................................G12/AS1 5.3, Table 4
flow rates.................................................................................. G12/AS1 5.3.1, Table 3
watertightness.................................................................................................G12/AS1 7.5

Water tanks
see Tanks

Water traps............................................................................................. G13/AS1 3.0, Figure 1

dimensions.....................................................................................G13/AS1 3.2.1, Figure 1
location............................................................................................................ G13/AS1 3.3
multiple outlets............................................................................. G13/AS1 3.3.2, Figure 2

WC pans......................................................... G1/AS1 2.1, 3.1.1, 4.2.2, Figures 4 to 6, Table 1;

G13/AS1 3.2.1, Figures 1 and 6, Tables 2 and 5,
cisterns G1/AS1 2.2.2
cubicles.............................................................................................G1/AS1 6.2, Figure 11
flushing systems........................................................................ G1/AS1 2.1.1 f), 2.2, 4.2.6
surface finish............................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.1.1 a)
water seals................................................................................... G1/AS1 2.1.1 c), Figure 2

Weather stops........................................................................................................D1/AS1 1.3.2

Weatherboards
see Timber weatherboards and fibre cement weatherboards

Weathertightness......................................................................E2/VM1 1.0, E2/AS1 2.1, 8.1.1

Weathertightness risk factors.................................................................................. E2/AS1 3.0

establishing the risk............................................................................ E2/AS1 3.1, Figure 1
building envelope risk matrix..............................................................................Table 2
examples..........................E2/AS1 3.4, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.3, Tables 4-6, Figures 2-4
definitions of risk......................................................................... E2/AS1 3.1.1, Table 1
risk score.....................................................................................E2/AS1 3.1.2, Table 2
roof claddings..................................................................................................... E2/AS1 3.2
wall claddings....................................................................................... E2/AS1 3.3, Table 3

Whare Runanga
see Communal non-residential, assembly service
Amend 11
Sep 2010

D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing 3 0 September 2010

207
 NEW ZEALAND BUILDING CODE HANDBOOK Index

Wheelchairs........................................................................................................... D1/AS1 7.0.1

see also People with disabilities, Accessible routes
spaces for wheelchairs.......................................................... D1/AS1 8.1, 8.1.2, Figure 30
wheelchair access.........................................................................NZBC/D1.3.4 (b) (d) (e)

Wind
see Structure, loads

Wind barriers............................................................................................................. E2/AS1 2.5

Windows and doors........B1/VM1 12.0; C/AS1 3.1.4, 6.20.4 c); E2/AS1 9.1.10, 9.2.6, 9.3.11,
Amend 11 9.5.4, 9.6.9.7, 9.7.7, 9.8.8, 9.9.9, Figure 76; E3/AS1 1.3.1;
Sep 2010 G7/AS1 1.0.1 to 1.0.3, 2.0.1,
Figures 1 and 2; G15/AS1 3.0.4, 3.0.6
see also Natural Light
closed cell foam tape..................................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.7
fire windows
see Glazing
glazing................................................................................................................ B1/AS1 7.0
head flashings.............................................................. E2/AS1 9.1.10.4, Table 7, Figure 71
jamb flashings...............................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.6, Table 7
scope...........................................................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.1
treatment of opening................................................................ E2/AS1 9.1.10.2, Figure 72
used for escape.............................................. C/AS1 3.3.6 d), 3.18, 6.20.6 b), Figure 3.32
vertical profiled metal................................................ E2/AS1 9.6.8.6, Figures 95 and 100
window heads........................................................................... E2/AS1 9.1.10.3, Figure 71
windows – cavity..........................................E2/AS1 9.4.7, 9.5.4.2, 9.7.7.2, 9.8.8.2, 9.9.9,
. .......................................................................................... Figures 85, 86, 91, 116 and 128
windows – direct fixed................................. E2/AS1 9.4.6, 9.5.4.1, 9.7.7.1, 9.8.8.1, 9.9.9,
Figures 81-84, 90, 115 and 127
window sills...................................................................................E2/AS1 9.1.10.5, Table 7

Work camps..................................................................NZBC/G2.2, G3.2.1, G3.3.1 (a) to (d);

G2/AS1 Table 1; G3/AS1 1.0.1
see also Communal residential, community service

208 3 0 September 2010 D epartment of B ui l ding and H ousing